Subtle Straightening with Invisalign

best dentists in RichardsonDo you desire a straighter, healthier smile but don’t want to wear noticeable metal and wire braces? Fortunately, there exist discreet alternatives to traditional, conspicuous braces. Some of the best dentists in our community offer the Invisalign orthodontic system that inconspicuously and comfortably straightens teeth to healthier and more attractive positions.

How Invisalign Works

Much like traditional braces, Invisalign applies gentle force to the teeth to create movement over time. The Invisalign system consists of custom made, clear retainer-like oral appliances called aligners. A patient will wear multiple sets of aligners over time, which is swapped out every couple of weeks. Each new set of aligners is slightly tighter so that adequate pressure is applied to the teeth for movement.

How Invisalign Differs from Traditional Braces

Unlike braces, which are bonded to teeth, Invisalign aligners are removable. During treatment, patients will remove their aligners during meals and when brushing and flossing their teeth. This difference, when compared to metal and wire braces, allows patients to easily clean their teeth and eat their favorite foods.

Another notable difference between Invisalign and traditional braces is that the aligners are smooth so that they don’t irritate soft oral tissues like the insides of the cheeks and lips. Made from soft, slightly pliable plastics, Invisalign won’t scrape or cut against oral tissues like the sharp metal edges of traditional orthodontic appliances.

Lastly, Invisalign is far more discreet than traditional orthodontic appliances like brackets and metal wires. Because the aligners are clear, they are almost unnoticeable to others. This allows patients to receive the straight smile they have always wanted without feeling self-conscious or embarrassed.

Candidates for Invisalign

Many patients are surprised to learn that they are candidates for the Invisalign system. Invisalign can correct crooked, overlapped, and crowded teeth. To learn more about your discreet, teeth-straightening options and to determine if you are a candidate for Invisalign, we welcome you to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled dentists.