Invisalign aligners are a popular, modern alternative to metal braces for adults who want to straighten their teeth. They are just one of many discreet orthodontic options available from Sheen Dental in Richmond, and have the additional benefit of having next to no impact on your lifestyle during treatment.
Richmond Invisalign treatment: how it works
Unlike braces, which use wires and brackets to move your teeth into a better position, treatment with Invisalign involves the use of a series of clear, removable aligners. These are custom-made at the Invisalign laboratory in the United States to fit snugly over your teeth, gently guiding them into a better place.
Treatment takes place in two-weekly increments. You change your aligner every fortnight as your teeth begin to move, and will need to wear a retainer when treatment is complete to keep your teeth in their new position.
The number of Invisalign aligners you will require and the length of your treatment will depend on the type and amount of correction that is required. When you come into our Richmond dental practice for a consultation, your dentist or orthodontist will let you know how many aligners you should need and how long treatment is expected to take.
Average treatment times range from six to 24 weeks at our Richmond dental clinic.
It’s important that you wear your Invisalign aligners for at least 20-22 hours each day so that treatment progresses as planned. However, because you can take them out yourself to eat, drink, clean, and to brush your teeth, they have minimal impact on your lifestyle.
Good dental hygiene is also easier to maintain with Invisalign than with some fixed brace systems, because you don’t need to adopt any specific hygiene techniques. You should still clean your teeth an hour after every meal, as with standard braces, but can brush and floss your teeth as normal.
As with any form of orthodontic treatment, you will need to attend regular check-ups at Sheen Dental in Richmondto check that your treatment is going to plan. Your dentist will discuss discreet retainer options with you.