Clear Aligners in Bolingbrook, IL

Traditional braces are made of brackets that are attached to each patient’s teeth and connected with wires. Traditionally, metal wires are used to apply tension to the teeth, moving them into proper alignment. Today, there are alternatives to traditional braces. Patients can choose the more aesthetically pleasing clear aligners.

Many patients prefer clear aligners because they are almost invisible. They are made entirely of clear plastic, which fits over the teeth like a mouth guard. The aligners can be taken out to eat and drink but should be worn 22 hours a day to ensure their effectiveness.

What are the benefits of clear aligners?

Clear aligners are convenient, comfortable, and removable. You can take out your aligners to eat, drink, brush, floss, and clean them. This makes them easier to maintain than braces and results in better oral health.

Clear aligners have many other advantages. You can take them out when you want to, which helps you maintain a more natural appearance. Brushing and flossing are easier with clear aligners, so you’ll maintain good oral health. And the smooth plastic surface of clear aligners doesn’t irritate the soft tissue in the mouth, so you can speak normally.

What types of clear aligners are available?

Clear aligner systems vary slightly by company.

Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners that are custom-made to fit your mouth. Each aligner shifts your teeth slightly, moving them gradually into the desired alignment. Invisalign is a revolutionary orthodontic treatment designed to straighten teeth discreetly and effectively without the need for traditional metal braces. It utilizes a series of clear, custom-made aligners crafted from a flexible, medical-grade plastic material called SmartTrack. These aligners are virtually invisible when worn, making them a popular choice for individuals seeking a more aesthetic alternative to conventional braces.

ClearCorrect is similar to the Invisalign system in that they use a series of clear aligners to move your teeth. However, unlike Invisalign, ClearCorrect uses a sequence of BPA-free plastic trays instead of custom-made aligners.

How do clear aligners work?

Clear aligners are removable plastic trays that fit snugly over your teeth. Each aligner is custom-molded to fit your mouth, and each one is designed to move your teeth just a little bit. After a week or two, you move on to the next aligner that will continue to shift your teeth into place. The aligners fit over your molars and your front teeth but not over your canines. Since they don’t fit over your canines, you’re still able to open and close your mouth, which allows you to eat any food you want.

How Invisalign Works

The Invisalign system is based on advanced 3D imaging technology. During the initial consultation, a dentist or orthodontist will take precise digital scans of the patient's teeth. These scans are used to create a detailed treatment plan, mapping out the gradual movement of teeth from their current positions to the desired alignment. Each set of aligners is designed to make slight adjustments to the position of the teeth. Patients typically wear a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, with each set bringing them closer to their ideal smile.

Benefits of Invisalign

Discreet Appearance: The clear aligners are virtually invisible, allowing patients to undergo treatment without noticeable braces.

Comfort: Made from smooth plastic, Invisalign aligners are more comfortable than metal braces, with no sharp edges or wires to irritate the mouth.

Removability: Invisalign aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, allowing for greater convenience and better oral hygiene than traditional braces.

Predictable Results: The 3D imaging technology used in the planning process allows for a clear visualization of the treatment outcome, giving patients confidence in their expected results.

Fewer Office Visits: Since there are no brackets or wires to adjust, patients typically require fewer visits to their dentist or orthodontist, saving time and reducing the need for frequent appointments.

Treatment Duration

The length of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the complexity of each case. On average, treatment lasts 12 to 18 months, but some patients may achieve their desired results in a shorter time frame. Patients must wear their aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day throughout the treatment to ensure the system's effectiveness.

Who Can Use Invisalign?

Invisalign suits many orthodontic issues, including mild to moderate crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. It is an excellent option for teens and adults who wish to straighten their teeth without the aesthetic concerns associated with metal braces. However, consulting with a qualified dentist or orthodontist is essential to determine if Invisalign is the right choice, as some severe cases may require alternative treatments.

Conclusion

Invisalign and clear aligners have transformed the world of orthodontics by offering a comfortable, convenient, and virtually invisible solution to teeth straightening. Their innovative technology and patient-friendly design make them a popular choice for those seeking a more aesthetic approach to achieving a perfect smile. With proper care and compliance, Invisalign can provide lasting results, improving dental health and confidence.

To find out more about the dental services offered at Solace Dental, call Dentist Bolingbrook, IL at (630) 759-3595 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 287 N Weber Rd, Bolingbrook, IL, 60490.