Invisalign is one of the most popular treatments we offer at our Melbourne orthodontic clinic, but it may not be the best treatment for all patients. Up to 15 percent of people in the US need some sort of orthodontic treatment, according to research published at the National Library of Medicine. Adults especially like Invisalign because the clear plastic aligners which work to straighten their teeth are basically “invisible.” The treatment is also suitable for many teens. Here are some important things that people will want to know about this treatment from their orthodontist in Melbourne, FL.

Are You a Good Candidate?

Every patient is unique, so Melbourne Orthodontics won’t make a specific recommendation until after your first appointment with us. Invisalign works for most teens and adults who need mild to moderate shifting of their teeth to correct their smile. The only way to determine whether Invisalign will work for you is to first have a full exam, including X-rays. If your teeth will require more serious shifting to correct your smile, traditional metal braces may be recommended instead.

Invisalign works to correct the following orthodontic problems:

• Overcrowded teeth
• Overbite and underbite
• Gaps between teeth
• Crossbite
• Open bite

What are Invisalign Aligners Made From?

The clear aligners used for Invisalign are made from plastic. Many people are worried about bisphenol A when it comes to plastics, but Invisalign is BPA-free. The aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth perfectly, and they tend to be more comfortable than traditional braces.

How the Process Works

Your orthodontist in Melbourne will take X-rays of your teeth to determine the best course of treatment for you. If Dr. Reddick determines that you are a good candidate for Invisalign, a digital 3D model of your teeth will be made. The X-rays and 3D model will be used to create an individualized treatment plan just for you. The 3D model lets you see approximately how the invisible braces will correct your smile, and will give you a rough timeline for treatment.

How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?

The average length of time that most patients need Invisalign is about twelve months, but it varies on several factors. If only a minor adjustment is needed, it could take less than a year. For more severe corrections, it can take up to 18 months. A patient’s age also has an impact on length of treatment time. The teeth of younger patients tend to shift easier than in adults, whose adult teeth have all erupted. This is also why traditional metal braces are most commonly used in teens.

Wearing Your Invisalign Aligners

The 3D model of your teeth is sent to an Invisalign laboratory to be created. Your orthodontist in Melbourne will see you for a follow-up appointment to ensure that the aligners are a perfect fit once they arrive. One major advantage of Invisalign over traditional braces is that the aligners are removable. They can be taken out to eat and for brushing and flossing. The aligners are supposed to be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day in order to be fully effective.

After the first appointment, you will start wearing the clear aligners every day. Each set lasts for about two weeks, and then you will switch to the new set of aligners in sequence. The aligners will be a tight fit at first, and at the end of each two-week sequence, they will start to feel loose. Don’t switch them out early! Wearing them for the full two weeks allows your teeth to fully shift before moving to the next set of aligners.

Invisalign patients come in approximately every six weeks for a progress appointment with their Melbourne orthodontist. It’s important to keep these appointments, so the doctor can ensure that your treatment plan and your aligners do not need any adjustments. Patients will feel some pressure from the invisible braces, which means they are working to shift the teeth into proper alignment. If your Invisalign trays ever feel painful, call our office for a follow-up appointment to correct the problem.

Melbourne Orthodontics in Melbourne offers Invisalign, traditional braces, and other methods of smile correction. Contact us to schedule your first appointment if you think that you might be a good candidate for Invisalign.