There are many reasons why straight and aligned teeth are important, but the first reason most people think of is an attractive smile. This goes a long way towards self-confidence and can improve your lifestyle and level of success. However, there are other reasons to straighten teeth.
Straight and properly aligned teeth help a person bite, chew and speak properly. Straight teeth also allow for healthier gums and may help prevent gum disease because they are easier to brush and floss.
A misaligned bite can potentially lead to serious dental concerns, but having metal braces in your mouth is usually less than ideal. Ragan Orthodontics offers the clear, discreet Invisalign® straightening system for patients who are seeking another alternative to traditional braces.
What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign® teeth aligners are made of clear plastic that fits comfortably over the teeth. The aligners gradually move your teeth into the proper position. Every two weeks, a new aligner is made to keep pushing the teeth until they reach the final optimal position. It may take between 18 – 36 different aligners to reach the right position depending on the complexity of the teeth movement. Treatment time is comparable to that of braces.
The fact that Invisalign® braces are virtually invisible is a benefit for social situations as well as careers that focus on face-to-face interaction. Another benefit is the ease with which they are kept clean. They can be removed when you eat and brush your teeth, but they need to be worn at all other times.
What Does Invisalign® Treat?
The most common orthodontic problems that Invisalign® can correct are:
- Overlapping teeth
- Overcrowded teeth
- Spaces in between teeth
- Misaligned teeth
- Bite problems including under bites, cross bites, overbites and open bites
Am I a Good Candidate for Invisalign®?
We will assess your teeth and oral health to determine if Invisalign® braces are right for you. High-tech imagery of your mouth may be created for the aligners to be custom-made for the way your teeth need to move. Most adults have straighter teeth within a year, and teenagers have straighter teeth at about the same time as regular braces.
Some cases of misaligned teeth cannot be effectively corrected with this treatment system, and traditional braces may be recommended. We will discuss the treatment options that are available to you during your consultation.
If you are an adult who missed out on having braces when you were young and would like to correct your teeth and improve your smile, you’re in luck. Invisalign® can help. These aligners are virtually invisible, treat most orthodontic problems, are easy to clean without having to modify your diet.
Contact Ragan Orthodontics today to schedule a consultation and discover the benefits of Invisalign® for discreet, comfortable teeth straightening.
