Wichita Invisalign
As our most popular alternative to traditional braces, the Invisalign clear aligner system can be an excellent option for patients looking for a more subtle and flexible orthodontic treatment. As certified Invisalign providers, we’re able to give teens and adults in Wichita the same beautiful results as braces, but without the use of brackets, wires, and bands.
What is Wichita Invisalign treatment all about?
The Invisalign system uses a series of removable clear aligners to straighten your teeth and improve your overall oral health. The customized aligners are created by generating a precise 3D image of your teeth using x-rays and digital impressions. While they may look like simple plastic trays on the outside, Invisalign aligners are actually constructed of a special thermoplastic resin that is strong enough to move teeth into alignment. When worn as directed, Invisalign aligners are as effective as traditional braces at treating many of the most common orthodontic issues.
How does Wichita Invisalign treatment work?
During your initial orthodontic evaluation, one of our doctors will perform a thorough examination of your mouth to determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign. If you are, we’ll map out a customized treatment plan for you that is based on your specific needs, preferences, and goals. The plan will include all the movements we want your teeth to make and an estimate of how long we expect your treatment to take. We may even be able to give you a sneak peek of what your new smile will look like!
Using the 3D scan of your teeth and gums as our guide, our team will begin designing custom aligners for you. These are made with a special material that keeps the plastic trays smooth, comfortable to wear, and nearly invisible. During the treatment process, your aligners will be switched out for the next one in the set approximately every 1-2 weeks. This allows them to keep up with the incremental movements of your teeth. Invisalign depends on your commitment to the process to get results! In order for the aligners to work, you must wear them the recommended 20-22 hours each day, throughout the course of treatment. Ideally, aligners will only be removed to eat, drink anything other than water, and to brush and floss.
Like braces, Invisalign will straighten the teeth gradually over a period of time. You can expect follow-up appointments in our office every six weeks or so. During these appointments, we will check your progress and ensure your treatment is on track. Not all smiles are created equally, and every patient responds to treatment in their own way, so there’s no “one-size-fits-all” answer for how long treatment is likely to take. However, the average total treatment time with Invisalign tends to be somewhere in the neighborhood of 9-15 months. The average number of aligners worn during treatment is between 18 and 30, but this will also vary from case to case.
What advantages does Wichita Invisalign treatment have over traditional braces?
Aside from the invisibility factor that patients love, the Invisalign system also has a number of other advantages over traditional braces.
No food restrictions
In order to protect the brackets, wires, and bands that braces are composed of, patients must avoid anything that is too crunchy or too chewy. This means snacks like popcorn, many raw fruits and veggies, and most chips, candies, and sweets are off the table for the duration of their treatment. Even though the payoff is worth it in the end, having to forego some of your favorite foods can be frustrating. But because Invisalign aligners are a removable orthodontic appliance, they are designed to be taken out every time you eat. This means you’re free to enjoy all the same foods you normally would!
Easier oral hygiene routine
Good oral hygiene becomes more important than ever when you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment, but with braces, this can be tricky. Food particles and other debris can get trapped in the brackets and wires, increasing the chances of tooth decay. Invisalign makes it incredibly easy to keep your teeth free of plaque and bacteria! The aligners are removed before you begin brushing and flossing, making it a cinch to maintain a great dental hygiene routine. Cleaning the actual aligners is a simple process as well. There are special kits available that have been designed specifically to clean Invisalign aligners, or you can gently clean them using nothing more than denture crystals and a soft toothbrush.
Convenience, flexibility, and freedom
Invisalign is a great option for patients looking for a little more freedom from their orthodontics. For patients who regularly participate in sports, Invisalign aligners can be especially beneficial. Aligners can be removed prior to practice or a game, and replaced with a mouthguard to keep the mouth and teeth safe. Aligners can also be helpful for musicians, since there is nothing to get in between them and their instrument. When it comes to special events like weddings, prom, senior pictures, or even something as simple as work ID photos, Invisalign aligners can be removed temporarily, allowing your natural smile to show through!
Who is a good candidate for Wichita Invisalign treatment?
The Invisalign system really shines when treating mild to moderate cases of the most common orthodontic issues. There are many cases that can be successfully corrected with Invisalign, but some may prove to be severe or complex enough that they require more precise tooth control than a removable aligner can achieve. Our doctors will determine if Invisalign would be a good fit for your specific issues, or if a more traditional orthodontic approach would be better. Schedule your free consultation today!