What is Invisalign Treatment?
Invisalign is a type of orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually shift teeth into their correct positions. Unlike traditional braces which use metal brackets and wires, Invisalign aligners are made from a flexible thermoplastic material called SmartTrack, developed specifically for the Invisalign System.
Each set of aligners is custom-made based on a 3D scan or impression for your teeth, and they are replaced every one to two weeks to accommodate changes in tooth positioning. The treatment is nearly invisible, making it an appealing option for those who prefer a less noticeable solution for correcting their smile.
Invisalign: The Supporter of Better Oral Health during Alignment
Invisalign not only straightens teeth discreetly, but it also promotes better health throughout the alignment process. Unlike traditional braces, which use fixed metal brackets and wires, Invisalign aligners are removable, making it significantly easier to maintain proper oral hygiene.
One of the key advantages of Invisalign is the ability to brush and floss normally. With traditional braces, food particles often get trapped around brackets and wires, increasing the risk of plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease. Invisalign aligners can be taken out before meals and during your oral care routine, allowing users to clean their teeth thoroughly without obstruction. This reduces the likelihood of cavities and gum inflammation during treatment.
Additionally, because Invisalign aligners are made from smooth plastic, they are less likely to cause irritation to the gums and inner cheeks compared to metal braces. This contributes to overall oral comfort and helps maintain healthy soft tissues in the mouth.
Invisalign also gradually moves teeth into better alignment, which itself contributes to improved oral health. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, as there are few hard-to-reach areas where plaque and bacteria can accumulate. Correcting overcrowding, spacing, and bite issues can help prevent future dental problems such as tooth wear, jaw pain, and periodontal disease. Invisalign’s removable nature, smooth design, and alignment benefits all support better oral health during treatment.
How to care for Invisalign Aligners for Best Results
Proper care of your Invisalign Aligners is essential for achieving the best results and maintaining good oral hygiene throughout your treatment. Clean aligners help prevent straining, odor, and bacterial buildup, while ensuring your teeth move as planned.
First and foremost, rinse your aligners with lukewarm water every time you remove them. This helps remove saliva and debris that can promote bacterial growth. Never use hot water, as it can warp the plastic. Brush your aligners gently with a soft toothbrush and clear, unscented soap at least once a day. Avoid using toothpaste, which can be abrasive and cause scratches that make the aligners appear cloudy.
Always remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water. Food particles and colored beverages can stain the aligners and increase the risk of cavities. Store your aligners in their case when not in use to protect them from damage or loss. Leaving them out exposes them to germs and increases the chance of misplacing them. Lastly, follow your dentist’s instructions closely and switch to new aligners regularly as directed. Proper cleaning and consistent wear- 20-22 hours per day are crucial to achieving a healthy, beautiful smile with Invisalign.
Invisalign over Traditional Braces
Invisalign Treatment is a better choice when compared to the traditional braces because of the virtually invisible nature of the material which is quite opposite to the Traditional methods. The smooth and custom-fit feature of Invisalign makes it the right choice for teeth alignment treatments, while the old method has caused discomfort to customers. The removable nature of Invisalign makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene and hence can boost self-confidence. The treatment complexity varies for Invisalign depending on the complexity which is individualistic. The idea of custom-made aligners make sure that the customer preferences are understood properly. However the aligners might be slightly costlier than traditional braces and the price reason is justifiable understanding the advantages the Invisalign Treatment offers. At Dr. Kammath’s Pediatric Dental Care we offer the best to our ortho patients by understanding their needs, optimizing custom-made aligners in a cost effective manner.
What foods should be avoided during Invisalign Treatment?
A major benefit of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable, so there are no strict dietary restrictions like with traditional braces. However a few suggested measures are as follows:
- Avoid consuming any foods wearing the aligners as chewing can damage the plastic, and food particles can become trapped, leading to staining and bacterial buildup.
- Limitations should be imposed on sugary and acidic foods as they can increase the risk of tooth decay and especially if you don’t brush your teeth before putting the aligners back in. Avoid acidic foods as it can erode the enamel.
- Steer Clear of Staining Foods and Drinks: Coffee, tea, red wine, tomato sauce, and curry can stain your teeth and, if not brushed away, can transfer stains to your aligners. Always brush your teeth before reinserting the aligners after consuming these food items.
- Be Cautious with Sticky or Chewy Foods: Sticky foods like caramel or gum can linger on your teeth, increasing the risk of decay and making it harder to clean properly before putting your aligners back in.
In short, while Invisalign allows more dietary freedom, maintaining excellent oral hygiene and avoiding certain food-related habits is key to a successful treatment.
