Traditional braces are not known for being aesthetically pleasing. Having to wear braces can be cumbersome, embarrassing or even mean avoiding foods that you love. Luckily, straightening your teeth no longer means having metal in your mouth. Thanks to Invisalign, you can avoid all of the hassle of traditional, permanent braces while keeping your smile your own.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign uses a series of removable, clear aligner trays to straighten your teeth. A mold is taken of the mouth and used to create the custom trays to the exact specifications of your teeth and mouth. Then, a plan for the path on which the teeth will move is established. While traditional braces use metal brackets and wires to move the teeth, Invisalign trays simply pop into the mouth. The next tray in the series is worn roughly every two weeks, until the teeth are moved to their final positions.
Am I a Candidate for Invisalign?
Depending on the severity, if you have one or more of the following, Invisalign can treat and correct it:
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps in your teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
Invisalign works best for teenagers and adults. Younger teens or children may not make good candidates due to still-growing teeth. Invisalign also takes dedication in order to work. Since the trays are removable, you must wear them and commit to not leaving them out after a meal or at night.
How does Invisalign compare to traditional braces?
Wearing traditional metal braces means being able to see them. It also means avoiding foods like apples, chewing gum or popcorn, for example. Special flossers must be used in order to floss between the metal brackets and under the metal wires, and your dental hygiene routine may become much longer. Since Invisalign is removed before eating or brushing, many of the inconveniences of traditional braces are skipped.
Dr. Kenneth Woo, DDS, Dr. Edmond Woo, DDS, Dr. Philip Lee, DDS and Dr. Yoon Hee Kim, DDS at Dr. Kenneth Woo, DDS and Associates in Gaithersburg can help you on your journey to the perfect smile. Call (240) 683-3833 to schedule an appointment for a consultation today!