Crooked teeth are nearly as common for adults as it is for children. The difference, however, is that many adults hesitate at the prospect of wearing conspicuous, uncomfortable braces to straighten their smiles. Fortunately, older teens and adult patients now have a more discreet option in the form of Invisalign® clear braces – the cosmetically appealing alternative to straightening crooked teeth. The secret to how Invisalign® works is in the design of the custom-made aligners, which gradually reposition crooked teeth as you progress through them.
What is Invisalign®?
Unlike conventional braces made from brackets and wires, Invisalign® is a system of clear plastic aligners that are designed to fit comfortably and snugly over your teeth. The aligners are designed to guide crooked teeth toward more symmetrical positions by applying gradual, but gentle, force. The benefits of choosing Invisalign® aligners over traditional braces are many, and include:
- Increased comfort compared to metal brackets and archwires
- Discretion and confidence – the aligners are virtually invisible when worn
- Improved convenience – the aligners can be removed for eating and teeth cleaning
- No risk of damage or discoloration to teeth from bonded brackets
Like Braces, But Different
Invisalign® clear braces work on the same principles as traditional braces – improving tooth alignment to improve your smile’s appearance and your bite’s function. However, Invisalign® takes an innovative approach through the unique design of its aligners.
Invisalign® treatment relies on a series of aligners that are designed to mimic the size, shape, and positions of your teeth, but with one slight difference. In areas of your dental ridge where teeth are crooked, the aligners will be designed to gently guide the teeth back into proper position.