How Invisalign® Clear Aligners Work

Invisalign® clear aligners in Arlington, Texas, from our dentists are a great, modern method to straighten your teeth. But because they are so different from traditional metal braces, many patients may be confused about how they actually work. Let our Smiles Family Dental team explain this process to you. If you would like to learn more or set up your consultation with Dr. Angelie Zamora and Dr. Britany Jenkins, call 817-277-1971 today!

Invisalign Aligners vs. Traditional Braces

Traditional braces are the wire and bracket combination traditionally used by dentists and orthodontists to straighten teeth. For this treatment, brackets are installed directly to your teeth.

Traditional braces use tension to gently nudge teeth into place. A wire is attached to the brackets, which will slowly pull your teeth into alignment. Patients being treated using traditional braces will need to have periodic visits with a dental hygienist for adjusting alignment wires.

The Difference Between Traditional Braces and Clear Aligners

Invisalign clear aligners work in much the same way traditional braces do. Using tension, Invisalign aligners slowly adjust your teeth and jaw position. The main difference is that Invisalign aligners are not permanently attached to your teeth.

Invisalign aligners, otherwise known as invisible braces, are plastic trays that slide snugly around your teeth. At the beginning of your treatment, our dentists will take a detailed digital scan of your mouth and use it to create a customized treatment plan.

Several different trays will be created out of a special medical-grade plastic designed specifically for its flexibility and durability. Each plastic tray will be worn as prescribed by our dentists, typically for a few weeks.

Invisalign aligners may be removed for eating, sleeping and brushing your teeth. This convenience alone makes invisible braces an attractive option for someone looking to perfect their smile.

What Are Invisalign Clear Aligners Made Out Of?

Invisalign aligners are made from a special medical-grade plastic called SmartTrack™. This material was designed to be used exclusively for orthodontic treatment, specifically for Invisalign aligners.

SmartTrack plastic was engineered to provide more effective tooth movement. Its durability and flexibility allow it to deliver uniform and consistent pressure to your teeth for optimal, low-intensity movement.

Each tray is deliberately designed for your teeth and are created using 3D printing technology. The combination of using SmartTrack plastic and 3D printing allows our dentists to give you the most customizable treatment available.

How Do Invisalign Clear Aligners Readjust Your Teeth?

Invisalign aligners are designed to fit snugly over your teeth. Using SmartTrack plastic, Invisalign aligners apply a uniform pressure around your teeth to gently nudge them into place.

Patients using Invisalign aligners may feel a slight pressure on their teeth after putting in their customized trays. However, this pressure is normal; this means your Invisalign aligners are properly working to correct your mouth.

Much like traditional braces, Invisalign aligners need to be periodically adjusted as your teeth progressively move. Rather than adjusting your current aligner trays, our dentists will provide you with new, custom printed trays for the next phase of your treatment.

Because Invisalign aligners are not permanently installed like traditional braces are, you may remove them for eating, drinking (beverages other than water) and cleaning your teeth.

It is important to wear your Invisalign trays for 20–22 hours a day to see results. Neglecting to wear your Invisalign aligners may extend the duration of your treatment. Consistency is key in seeing positive results.

What Can Invisalign Aligners Treat?

Invisalign aligners are made to function like regular braces. Because of this, Invisalign braces may be used to treat many of the same issues traditional wire and bracket braces are used to treat.

Some common examples are:

• Overbites: Upper teeth that close in front of lower teeth.
• Underbites: Upper teeth that close behind lower teeth.
• Crossbites: Upper and lower jaws that do not line up.
• Gap Teeth: Extra space between teeth.
• Open Bite: Top and bottom teeth that do not meet when closed.
• Crowded Teeth: Teeth are bunched up along the jaw.
• Crooked Teeth: Teeth that have grown in the wrong position.

Because Invisalign aligners are custom fit to every mouth, they may be used for treating children who have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth. Using Invisalign treatments on children can help prevent bite issues as children grow into adult smiles.

How Long Does It Take?

A typical Invisalign treatment may take anywhere from six to 18 months, depending on your case. Because each patient’s mouth is different, treatment time may vary. To see how long your treatment will take, you can talk to our dentists and see what a treatment plan would look like for you.

Come and Experience the Invisalign Difference for Yourself!

You deserve a fast-acting, natural-looking teeth straightening process, which is why we are so excited to be able to offer you the benefits of Invisalign aligners. Contact us today to schedule your appointment or to learn more about the Invisalign advantage.