5 facts you NEED to know about Invisalign

What is Invisalign?  Invisalign is a revolutionary system of the science of orthodontics to create clear plastic aligner trays to gently reposition teeth in a discreet yet affordable manner. Clear aligner trays are becoming one of the most popular ways to straighten your teeth. Dr. Jasmine Jenkins, our Invisalign Specialist, is excited to offer this treatment to teenagers and adults at Procopio Towle Dental Office. In order to provide further insight into these highly popular and extremely effective dental services, we have compiled a list of the top 5 facts you NEED to know about Invisalign. 

1. They are Removable

Unlike traditional fixed and wired braces, Invisalign are removable. This allows you to take them off when you eat and/or drink. This removable element means that Invisalign does not interfere with your daily life, as you can enjoy all your favorite foods without worrying about anything getting stuck in your wires or brackets. This also means that your teeth will be cleaned and maintained effectively - in some cases more so than braces - as you can brush your teeth without having to maneuver around the metal brackets.  The removable aligners ensures you can adopt the best oral hygiene practices when not in use. Simply remove the aligner, use clear soap, and brush them in cold water. By rinsing thoroughly you will be able to remove any excess dirt accumulated throughout the day.  Invisalign is also perfect for people who play contact sports, especially those that require mouth guards. Simply remove the aligners while playing and replace them when you’re done. This adds convenience for many adults. There are no changes to your diet that need to be made while you are going through treatment. This is one of the main reasons why this style of aligners are recommended.

1. You Do Not Need a Specialist to Adjust Them

With traditional braces, an Orthodontist will set appointments for you to come in and have the wires tightened and adjusted. However, with these clear aligners, you will have a short visit with our Invisalign Specialist to check the progress of the aligners given to you and will simply give you the next 1-2 trays of aligners. Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, include no metal and are custom made for your teeth. They work in a series of trays that gradually shift your teeth into place. Each tray is manufactured so that the teeth are slightly straighter than the previous tray. Your teeth will typically move up to 0.25 mm per tray. Every two weeks, you will receive a new set, slowly moving your teeth towards their ideal positions. 

1. Invisalign is comfortable (more so than braces in some cases)

Patients who opt for Invisalign articulate how comfortably they are in their mouth. Without the metal wire and just a removable, fitted thermoplastic aligner, patients find that Invisalign is a comfortable oral option that provides ultimate ease of use. There are no brackets that can create sores, which alleviates any mouth ulcers or cuts forming in your gums.  Due to this increased level of comfort, Invisalign tends to be a popular choice among many adults. And with only 35% of adults' front teeth aligned correctly, it’s a no-brainer.

1. You have to wear them 22 Hours a Day 

Invisalign must be worn a minimum of 22 hours per day. Typically, you are only supposed to remove them for eating and practicing daily oral hygiene. That means that if you are heading out for a date or going to a party, you will have to wear them! But remember, they are completely clear - so they often go undetected. 

1. Even our very own Dr. Procopio has had Invisalign 

So the phrase ‘practice what you preach’ definitely holds true here at Procopio Towle Dental Office. This year Dr. Procopio decided to receive Invisalign treatment by our very own specialists here in Walnut Creek. The results? A huge success. She loves how aligned her teeth have become, with minimal effort and pain. With the dentist and advanced technology doing all the hard work - all she had to do was wear her very own tray every two weeks for a perfect smile.  All aligners are integral for the health and overall appearance of your teeth and thankfully here at Procopio Towle Dental Office, we provide a range of treatments that will provide you with a beautiful smile.  The decision for Invisalign over metal braces really comes down to you, the patient. Each patient’s needs and preferences are unique and special. If the appearance of metal braces has been holding you back from a straighter smile, Invisalign could be a great option. This is especially true for teens that are perhaps self-conscious of wearing braces, or adults that need them later in life. Invisalign is often used for adults who didn’t maintain their smile with a retainer when they had braces as a teen, or never got the chance to straighten their teeth to begin with. If you are ready to achieve a beautiful, attractive smile, contact Procopio Towle Dental Office to schedule a consultation visit with Dr. Jasmine Jenkins can work with you to determine if you are an appropriate candidate for treatment with Invisalign and can help get you started obtaining the smile you’ve always wanted!