Invisalign® in Porterville, CA
Invisalign® in Porterville, CA
What is Invisalign?
Similar to traditional metal braces, Invisalign applies constant gentle pressure to move the teeth into the desired alignment gradually. Additionally, the cost is comparable to fixed braces and is generally covered by orthodontics insurance.
However, the similarities end here. Instead of noticeable and sometimes uncomfortable brackets and wires, Invisalign uses a series of are custom-fit, removable, and smooth aligners that fit comfortably over the teeth. About every week, Invisalign wearers get to upgrade to a fresh aligner as the teeth gently move along the gumline.
How does Invisalign work?
Consultation
At your initial consultation, you will meet with one of our Live Oak Dental Group dentists who have been trained, certified, and have experience in providing Invisalign treatment. Once your dentist has determined that your misalignment can be successfully treated with Invisalign, he or she will make an impression of your teeth and take detailed measurements and notes.
Soon, our dentist will develop a treatment plan, which maps out the movement of your smile in a given timeline. At the end of the preview, you should be able to see the final result of your one-of-a-kind treatment plan.
Treatment
After the initial consultation, you will receive your first set of aligners. Here’s what you can expect during Invisalign treatment:
- Discretion: Because they are made of clear, biocompatible plastic, others rarely notice Invisalign aligners.
- No diet changes: Before snacks and meals, our aligners can snap out of place. There is no need to worry about food being trapped underneath brackets and wires.
- Easy access: Again, Invisalign aligners are removable. Therefore, patients can take them off to brush and floss their teeth.
Although people choose Invisalign for more freedom, expect a few lifestyle changes:
- Extended wear hours: Typically, patients are instructed to wear Invisalign aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day. However, they can be removed for special occasions, eating and drinking, and thoroughly cleaning the teeth.
- Check-up Appointments: From time to time, Invisalign patients must visit our Porterville office in person. Invisalign checkups tend to run pretty quickly and are designed to monitor progress. If needed, an adjustment can be made.
Post-Treatment
The gentle pressure from orthodontic treatment softens the tooth root, moving gently into correct alignment. However, this can also cause the teeth to drift back to their original position. So, we suggest wearing a retainer as directed after treatment to avoid reversing progress and ruining months of compliance.
