Invisalign® aligners are a modern version of traditional braces, clear, sleek and nearly invisible. This system allows us to make changes to your bite without the use of wires or brackets. At Frank Hsu, D.D.S., we can examine and review your bite and changes that can be made to improve your function and your look. With a treatment plan in place, we can then send your plan to a dental lab for the fabrication of your Invisalign® system. Together, we can help you achieve the look you want, without the hassle, frustration or embarrassment of braces.
What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign® is an orthodontic device customized to make changes to your bite. The biggest difference is how it works, traditional braces use brackets and wires to pull the teeth into position, Invisalign® also uses force, but the force is provided in an acrylic device that fits entirely over your arch. Instead of tightening appointments, patients will change from one acrylic device to the next in the series that is provided about every two weeks.
Invisalign® is made of a medical grade, clear plastic material. From a natural conversation distance, it is nearly impossible to see, meaning rarely would anyone ever know that you are wearing them. Invisalign® fits in your mouth, customized to fit over your teeth. Besides being discreet, Invisalign® is removable. Though the patient should wear their Invisalign® appliance a majority of the time, the ability to remove it can make a significant difference. You can remove it to eat, remove it to brush, and remove it for activities that would make wearing a device difficult, such as playing sports or an instrument. This step makes Invisalign® much more appealing to teens! You remove it temporarily and simply replace it when you are done.
My Invisalign® Appointment
The biggest difference with Invisalign® is in the technology used to visualize and create the device. With the information and software development today, Invisalign® is no longer used for only simple repairs. Patients with a wide variety of orthodontic problems can be treated. Invisalign® can be used to treat a broad range of cases with greater precision.
At your dental visit, we will discuss your needs and evaluate digital x-rays. We will then create a 3D digital mold that is uploaded into the Invisalign® software. Working together, we will create your ideal treatment plan, digitally viewing the before and after conception. Once we have completed the treatment plan, this information is then sent to a dental lab. The dental lab will create multiple acrylic forms, designed to slowly and incrementally move your teeth.
Unlike braces, Invisalign® does not require changes to your diet, and you can brush and floss normally because you can remove it.
Once you receive your Invisalign® series, you simply wear each appliance one at a time as designated in the treatment plan, switching to the next one in the series about every two weeks. We will occasionally ask to see you for an evaluation to monitor progress.