How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign® is a highly advanced orthodontic system that creates a series of custom aligners. These medical-grade plastic aligners move teeth gradually into ideal positions.

Benefits of Invisalign

Comfortable

Invisalign trays are comfortable to wear because they are molded from smooth, clear, medical-grade plastic. Unlike braces, they do not rub against delicate oral tissues, causing sores and irritation. After patients become accustomed to wearing the aligners, they may not feel them.

Discreet

Most adults and older teens prefer discreet orthodontic treatment. Braces often draw unwanted attention. With Invisalign, no one needs to know you are straightening your teeth.

Highly Effective

Invisalign and braces are equally effective. Invisalign can treat crooked, gapped, and misaligned teeth. The system works on minor to moderate dental bite issues.

No Food Restrictions

Since Invisalign trays come out when you eat and drink, you do not have to remove certain foods from your diet. Crunchy, chewy, or hard foods like candy, popcorn, and nuts pose no issues if you thoroughly clean your teeth before replacing the aligners.

Better Oral Health Outcomes

Since Invisalign trays can come out, you can care for your teeth much better than with braces. Patients with braces frequently have trouble cleaning all the food and plaque between the brackets and wires. Their oral health may worsen during treatment if they are not careful. Invisalign eliminates this problem and promotes better outcomes.

Good Candidates for Invisalign

If you meet the following criteria, you may be an excellent Invisalign candidate:

• No untreated tooth decay or gum disease
• Excellent oral hygiene
• Ability to follow directions
• Ability to wear Invisalign for 20 to 22 hours daily

The Invisalign Process

The first step is taking digital impressions with an intraoral scanner. The Invisalign software processes the scans and creates a 3-D digital model of your dentition and oral tissues. The orthodontist uses this model to design your aligners. They can also show you "before and after" depictions of your teeth.

When the trays return from the Invisalign lab, the orthodontist will ensure they fit and then instruct you on their use. You will use each aligner in the series for about one to two weeks.

As you make progress through the series, the aligners will move a few teeth at a time and create an ideal smile. After the final aligner, you must wear a retainer as prescribed to keep your results.

Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign

Why should I see an orthodontist for Invisalign?

While many general dentists have received training in Invisalign's use, orthodontists understand more about tooth alignment and can provide better outcomes.

Can my child get Invisalign?

Both teens and adults can receive Invisalign. 

Call Legacy Smiles Orthodontic Specialties

Invisalign may be your perfect solution if you want an even, aligned smile but don't want to deal with brackets and wires. Please call Legacy Smiles Orthodontic Specialties at 575-522-1500 to schedule your appointment today.