Invisalign

One of the orthodontics treatments that Heller Orthodontics offers is Invisalign. Invisalign is an alternative to traditional braces that more and more people are curious about. Learn more about what Invisalign is, how it works, the process of wearing Invisalign, and who it’s for.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that offers a low-profile way to correct alignment issues without the use of traditional braces. Instead, Invisalign is a series of clear, custom-made and removable oral aligners that incrementally adjust the position of your teeth.

The technology behind Invisalign involves 3D imaging and advanced computer modeling. During your consultation, your orthodontist in Laurel, MD takes precise measurements of your teeth and mouth. These measurements are used by a dental lab and your orthodontist to create a virtual model of your mouth, plan your treatment and fabricate your custom set of aligners.

Benefits of Invisalign

The popularity of Invisalign in Laurel, MD is due to its many advantages over traditional braces. These include:

Comfort – Both Invisalign and traditional braces take some getting used to. But standard braces have an inherent level of discomfort that Invisalign doesn’t. The brackets on the surface of the teeth can chafe the inside of the lips, and there is usually a period of discomfort after each orthodontist “tightening” visit.

Convenience – As long as the Invisalign appliance is worn about 21 hours per each 24-hour cycle, the outcome should be as expected. Wearers can remove the Invisalign appliance for pictures, special social events, to take care of oral hygiene, etc. Braces are permanent until the orthodontist removes them.

Low Profile – Invisalign isn’t exactly invisible, but pretty close to it. It’s a low profile appliance that doesn’t draw attention like traditional braces, although so-called “invisible braces” run a close second.

Who is a Good Candidate for Invisalign?

Invisalign is very effective, but it’s not for everyone. If you have major alignment issues, a different treatment may be better, for various reasons. The ideal candidate is someone who’s mature and disciplined enough to make sure they wear the appliance for the requisite number of hours each day. The wearer has to commit to taking care of the appliance while it’s not being worn, so doesn’t get damaged.

As far as outcomes, Invisalign is intended to treat mild to moderate alignment problems, such as some overbites, underbites and crooked teeth. For more complex dental issues, Invisalign will be less effective.

Because Invisalign is so hard to notice when it’s worn, it’s ideal for anyone who is self-conscious about their appearance or who doesn’t want to draw attention with traditional braces. Invisalign is also perfect for adults in high-profile professions who need to maintain a certain type of persona. This includes:

• Teens
• Celebrities
• Executives
• Influencers
• Adults in general

The Invisalign Process

It’s important not to try to determine for yourself whether Invisalign is right for you. Your orthodontist in Laurel, MD needs to conduct an examination. Then the two of you can discuss options which may include Invisalign. If it’s determined that Invisalign is a good option for your individual circumstances, then a personalized treatment plan will be devised. Every step of the way, you and your orthodontist at Heller Orthodontics will work together to ensure a great outcome.

Aligners

Aligners are an alternative to traditional braces, and it’s typically the more popular option for those who are eligible for the procedure. With aligners, you’re able to remove them when you eat, so you don’t need to worry about staying away from foods. They are virtually invisible, meaning they won’t show up when you smile for photos.

SureSmile Advanced

Clear aligners were originally invented in the late 1990s as an alternative to traditional braces, and they remain as popular today as they were when they first debuted. In the past decades, more and more companies have invented their own version of aligners, and some have proven to be more successful for patients than others.

Because there’s a variety of options on the market, it’s important to know what your orthodontist recommends and what that will mean for your smile. At Heller Orthodontics, we carry SureSmile Advanced, a brand of clear aligners in Laurel and Bethesda, MD. When compared to its competitors, this affordable and convenient treatment can potentially work faster for patients.

What Is SureSmile Advanced?

SureSmile Advanced is a type of invisible aligner that patients can wear to correct a variety of common dental problems. The brand uses state-of-the-art technology to achieve a comfortable fit that will start working immediately. The process starts with a digital scan of the mouth using an intraoral scanner. Once the scans are sent to the lab, the aligners are trimmed with a laser to ensure they’ll be as efficient as possible.

Who Should Wear SureSmile Advanced?

It’s typically best for people with mild to moderate conditions who would prefer to avoid traditional metal braces. While the latter is an undeniably effective way to straighten crooked teeth and align your bite and jaw, it’s also one of the more conspicuous types of dentistry in Bethesda and Laurel. (However, it’s important to know that clear aligners aren’t an option for everyone. In the most severe cases, braces will be the best fit.)

How Long Do I Need to Wear SureSmile Advanced?

Patients will typically need to wear these clear aligners around 22 hours per day if they want the best results. In terms of how long you’ll need to work with these aligners until your teeth and bite are straight, it will depend on how much adjustment your mouth needs. Some people may only need aligners for 6 months, while other patients may need to wear them for 18 months.

How Can I Care for My Aligners?

Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your SureSmile Advanced:

• Follow a schedule: Not only will you need to wear them regularly, you’ll also need to clean them regularly and change out the trays on your own. Any delays can hinder your progress, which will mean wearing the aligners for longer.
• Floss and brush: One of the best things about clear aligners is that you can floss and brush without having to get in between metal braces. The more bacteria and food particles you keep out of your mouth, the faster the treatment will go.
• Store aligners correctly: This will mean having to carry a case with you wherever you go. However, it’s worth it to protect the aligners, so you don’t have to buy more than you need.

Orthodontists in Bethesda, MD

With locations in Bethesda and Laurel, the staff at Heller Orthodontics is here to help you find the right orthodontic treatment. Contact us today to learn more about how we’ve embraced technology to provide a better experience to all our patients.