The Long-Term Benefits of Choosing Invisalign for Teeth Straightening

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic solution that uses a series of custom-made, clear aligners to straighten teeth without the need for traditional metal braces. The aligners are virtually invisible and are designed using advanced 3D imaging technology, which allows for precise, personalized treatment planning and a preview of the final results. Each set of aligners applies gentle pressure to shift teeth into their desired positions, and they can be removed for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene, facilitating better dental care and avoiding dietary restrictions. The long-term benefits of choosing Invisalign for teeth straightening include improved oral health due to easier maintenance of good hygiene, as the removable aligners reduce plaque buildup and the risk of cavities and gum disease. Invisalign in St. Louis, MO, also contributes to a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing experience, as the clear aligners are less noticeable than traditional braces and require fewer office visits for adjustments. Additionally, by addressing alignment issues and improving bite function, Invisalign helps prevent future dental problems, reduces the risk of jaw strain and uneven tooth wear, and supports long-term oral health and confidence. 

Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces 

Invisalign utilizes a series of custom-made, clear aligners to shift teeth into their desired positions gradually. The aligners are nearly invisible, making them an appealing option for those who prefer a discreet orthodontic treatment. Patients can remove the aligners for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene, which simplifies maintaining good dental care and avoids restrictions on diet. The treatment process involves fewer office visits than traditional braces, as aligners do not require frequent adjustments. Invisalign also uses advanced 3D imaging technology to create a digital treatment plan, allowing patients to see a preview of their expected results and enhancing the precision of the treatment. 

On the other hand, traditional braces consist of metal brackets and wires fixed to the teeth. This method effectively addresses more complex orthodontic issues, such as severe crowding or significant bite problems. Braces are not removable, so patients must adapt their oral hygiene routine to clean around the brackets and wires, and they face dietary restrictions to avoid damaging the braces. While braces require more frequent visits for adjustments and can be less comfortable initially, they provide robust mechanical control over tooth movement. Braces also offer the advantage of being suitable for all orthodontic cases, including those that may not be ideal for Invisalign treatment. 

The Invisalign Treatment Process 

The Invisalign treatment process begins with a comprehensive consultation with the dentist in St. Louis, MO, who will assess your dental health and determine if Invisalign is the right option. This initial visit involves detailed imaging and impressions of your teeth, which are used to create a digital 3D mouth model. Using this model, our dentist will design a customized treatment plan that outlines the precise movements required to achieve your desired smile. You'll be able to see a virtual preview of the expected results before the treatment begins, ensuring that you're fully informed about the projected outcome. 

Once your aligners are manufactured based on the digital plan, you will receive a series of clear aligners you'll need to wear for 20-22 hours a day, only removing them for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene. Each set of aligners is typically worn for about one to two weeks before moving on to the next set in the series. Periodic check-ups with our dentist, usually every 6-8 weeks, are scheduled to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments. The treatment duration varies depending on individual needs, but most people achieve their desired results within 12 to 18 months. Throughout the process, adherence to wearing the aligners as prescribed and following your provider's instructions is crucial for achieving optimal results. Contact us today to learn more.

The Advantages of Invisalign

• Invisalign aligners are removable, allowing you to brush and floss your teeth without obstruction. This ease of cleaning helps prevent plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease, which can be more challenging to manage with traditional braces due to the brackets and wires. 

• Straightening your teeth with Invisalign can help eliminate crowding and spacing issues that often make proper oral hygiene difficult. You reduce the risk of gum inflammation and periodontal disease by achieving a more even alignment. 

• Invisalign can correct bite issues, such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Proper alignment improves your bite function, reducing the risk of jaw pain, uneven wear on teeth, and potential strain on your jaw joints. 

• Misaligned teeth can lead to uneven wear and tear, which may cause tooth sensitivity or damage. By aligning your teeth properly, Invisalign helps ensure a more balanced distribution of chewing forces, reducing the risk of excessive wear and protecting your enamel. 

• Teeth that is out of alignment can be more susceptible to fractures or damage due to uneven pressure during chewing. Invisalign helps correct these misalignments, decreasing the likelihood of tooth fractures or chips. 

• Invisalign can address issues related to jaw alignment, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. By aligning your teeth and improving your bite, Invisalign can alleviate stress on the jaw joints and reduce symptoms associated with TMJ disorders, such as pain and discomfort. 

• By addressing alignment issues and improving bite function, Invisalign improves oral health. Properly aligned teeth are easier to maintain and less likely to contribute to other dental problems, ensuring a healthier mouth in the long run. 

Invisalign offers a modern, convenient, and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional braces, with numerous benefits tailored to fit the needs and lifestyles of a diverse range of patients. Visit Healthy Smiles of Saint Louis at 4224 Watson Rd, St. Louis, MO 63109, or call (314) 832-1366 to learn more about how Invisalign can fit seamlessly into your lifestyle and achieve the results you've always wanted.