It’s great when people are born with perfectly straight teeth, but the fact is that teeth rarely come in straight. To achieve straight teeth, most young people are fitted with braces, or orthodontics, that will slowly adjust the position of the teeth. While braces are a standard and good solution for young people (despite the middle-school horrors), they are less frequently used for adults. However, there are still countless adults who wish they had straight teeth, but who don’t want to go through the process of applying braces and the stigma attached to them. So what’s the alternative?

Invisalign: An Alternative to Braces

If you prefer not to have metal braces applied to your teeth, Primary Dental in Denver offers Invisalign aligners as an alternative. We know how important it is for people to have beautifully straight teeth, but we also know how embarrassing it can be to have braces as an adult. We offer Invisalign for patients who want to achieve straight teeth! Keep reading to learn more, and contact our dental office today to schedule a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a retainer of sorts, a clear material fitted to your teeth that gradually adjusts the position of your teeth. The aligners are made of flexible plastic and are removable, so you can comfortably eat meals or go to important meetings without feeling self-conscious about your teeth. The aligners are thin, clear, and fit snugly over your teeth—no visible metal brackets or wires!

What is the Treatment Process?

First, you’ll meet with your dentist to determine if Invisalign is a good fit for you. If you decide to proceed, you will be fitted with the plastic aligners. It’s recommended that the aligners be worn between 20 and 22 hours a day to achieve the best and quickest results. New sets of aligners will be created as your teeth adjust, typically every two weeks.

How Long Does the Process Take?

One of the biggest things people want to know is how long it will take to achieve straight teeth. However, there isn’t a straightforward answer to this, as everyone’s teeth are different. How the process goes and how long it takes depend on two main factors:

Invisalign aligners are removable, so the amount of time that they are worn will impact the length of
The process.
The condition of your teeth at the beginning of the process.
If you work closely with your dentist and wear the aligners as often as possible, you may be able to get the straight teeth you want within 12 to 18 months.

Does it Hurt?

Whether you choose braces or Invisalign, the fact is that your teeth are shifting, so you will most likely experience some discomfort. However, any pain typically goes away after the first day of wearing a new set of aligners. A significant benefit of aligners over metal braces is that the tissue of your mouth won’t be affected. With braces, metal brackets can cause significant irritation to the inside of your mouth, but the smooth plastic of Invisalign won’t affect your mouth.

How Do I Care For Invisalign Aligners?

Keeping the aligners clean is one of the most important things you can do to care for them. When you brush and floss your teeth, the best time to clean them is in the morning and evening. Avoid using abrasive chemicals, but simply use a small amount of toothpaste and a soft toothbrush to clean the aligners’ inside and outside. Here are other ways to care for your aligners:

Rinse them with water each time you remove them.
Remove the aligners before eating.
Store the aligners in their case.
Brush and floss whenever you remove them.

What Happens When I’m Done?

Just like with braces, most dentists recommend wearing a retainer once your teeth are where you want them to be. This will prevent the teeth from shifting back into their initial place. Your dentist can fit you with a retainer, which must be worn only at night. If your teeth begin to move back, consult your dentist.

Contact Primary Dental in Wheat Ridge For an Invisalign Consultation

Our team is passionate about helping our patients achieve the smile they’ve always wanted. Call or visit our Denver dental office for a consultation!

Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign