What are Invisalign clear braces?

Invisalign braces have revolutionized the field orthodontics, offering a discreet and convenient alternative to traditional metal braces. These clear aligners are increasingly popular with people of all ages who want to straighten their teeth without the hassle and visibility of traditional braces. Let’s take a closer look at Invisalign braces and their unique features.

1. What are Invisalign clear braces?

Invisalign braces are a series of clear, custom-made aligners that gradually move your teeth into their proper position. Unlike metal braces, their aligners are virtually unnoticeable, making them an ideal choice for those who are self-conscious about their appearance during orthodontic treatment. The aligners are made from a smooth, comfortable thermoplastic material that fits snugly in the mouth.

One of the standout features of Invisalign braces is their removable nature. Unlike traditional permanent braces, Invisalign aligners can be easily removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. This design promotes superior oral hygiene as it allows for thorough cleaning of both teeth and aligners. It also means there are no dietary restrictions – patients can enjoy their favorite meals by simply removing their aligners first.

What’s more, Invisalign braces offer unparalleled convenience. Treatment consists of a series of custom-fitted aligners for different stages of your dental plan. Patients typically wear each set for about two weeks before moving on to the next set. As a result, Invisalign requires fewer appointments—patients typically check in with their orthodontist about every six to eight weeks to monitor their progress and receive a new set of aligners.

Invisalign braces also ensure a more comfortable treatment experience than traditional methods. The flexible material used reduces the possibility of irritation or discomfort in the gums and cheeks. Additionally, with no brackets or wires to adjust, the need for adjustments and the associated discomfort are eliminated.

Invisalign is effective for a variety of dental issues, including crowded teeth, spaced teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. Your orthodontist will tailor your treatment plan to your dental needs. Virtual simulations allow patients to preview their dental adjustments over time, providing a glimpse of the final result.

2. Ideal candidates for Invisalign

2.1. People who are self-conscious about their appearance

The discreet nature of Invisalign is its strongest appeal. The clear aligners blend seamlessly, making them especially beneficial for adults who don’t like wearing metal braces in professional or social settings. Invisalign allows them to straighten their teeth discreetly.

2.2. Severity of dental problems

Invisalign can correct a wide range of dental problems including crowding, spacing, and misalignment, but may not be suitable for severe cases. Severe cases of malocclusion or jaw misalignment may require more extensive treatment such as traditional braces or surgery. An orthodontic consultation is required to determine the appropriate treatment plan.

2.3. Good oral hygiene habits

Successful Invisalign treatment depends on excellent oral hygiene. Removable aligners need to be cleaned thoroughly after eating and before being reinserted, to prevent plaque build-up and tooth decay. Patients who have a history of poor oral hygiene may find it difficult to maintain the required hygiene standards and may not be suitable for Invisalign.

2.4. Discipline

The success of Invisalign is determined by consistent wear—ideally 20-22 hours per day. Prospective patients must commit to maintaining the prescribed schedule for their aligners and resist prolonged removal to avoid prolonged treatment or suboptimal results.

2.5. Consider the costs

Invisalign braces can be more expensive than traditional braces due to their advanced technology. It is important to verify coverage with your dental insurance company and discuss payment plans with your orthodontist if available.

3. Advantages and disadvantages of Invisalign

3.1. Advantages

• Discreet Appearance: The virtually invisible nature of aligners makes them an attractive solution for those interested in the aesthetic aspect of orthodontic treatment, especially for adults.
• Convenient: Its removable nature allows for normal eating and dental care, eliminating the dietary restrictions often associated with metal braces. Oral hygiene is also simpler, as patients can easily remove the aligners to brush and floss their teeth.
• Comfort: The lack of metal and wires in aligners reduces discomfort, making this a great option for those looking for a less invasive orthodontic solution.

3.2. Disadvantages

• Requires high discipline and commitment: The success of Invisalign depends largely on patient compliance with wearing the aligners for the recommended daily duration.
• Limited effectiveness with complex problems: This may not be the best option for severe orthodontic problems, which may require more traditional or advanced interventions.
• Expense: Treatment costs can be higher than traditional braces due to the complex imaging and custom manufacturing process involved in producing personalized aligners.

4. Invisalign orthodontic process

Step 1: Evaluation

The Invisalign process begins with an appointment with your dentist, who will assess whether you are a suitable candidate. People with issues such as crooked teeth, overbites, jaw misalignment or uneven tooth spacing are often considered candidates for Invisalign.

Step 2: Treatment planning and creation of 3D models of teeth

If you qualify, your dentist will create a treatment plan and create a 3D model of your teeth. From the scans and photographs, a 3D model will be created to show exactly where your teeth will be and how they will move over time. Based on this 3D model, custom aligners will be made to fit each stage of your teeth movement.

Step 3: Instructions for use

Once you receive your Invisalign aligners, you will be instructed on how to use them. Invisalign uses clear, thin aligners that are easy to remove and reinsert when eating, drinking, or cleaning. You will be advised to wear your aligners for at least 20-22 hours a day, removing them only when necessary.

Each set of Invisalign aligners is worn for about 1-2 weeks, after which you move on to the next set. By changing the aligners over time, your teeth will gradually move according to the original plan. This process takes time and patience, but Invisalign offers many benefits over traditional braces.

One of the biggest benefits of Invisalign is its aesthetics. Clear aligners make you feel more comfortable and confident when smiling, compared to traditional metal braces. Invisalign also makes daily oral hygiene easier, as you can remove the aligners to brush your teeth and use your aligners.

However, to get the best results from Invisalign, you need to follow the process and instructions of your dentist. If you do not wear the aligners for the required time or do not follow the instructions for oral care, the treatment process may be prolonged or not bring the expected results.

Step 4: Check and evaluate the results

Finally, when you have completed your Invisalign treatment, your dentist will review your results and make final adjustments if necessary to ensure your teeth are in their perfect position.

In summary, the Invisalign process begins with an appointment with your dentist and continues with the creation of a 3D model and the production of custom aligners. By wearing the aligners as planned, your teeth will gradually move and improve. With its aesthetic appeal and ease of use, Invisalign is a great option for those who want to correct their braces problem effectively and without discomfort.

5. Cost of Invisalign

Several factors influence the cost of Invisalign, such as the complexity of your dental issues, the expected treatment time, and the location of your dental practice. Although it is more expensive than traditional braces due to the advanced technology and expertise of your orthodontist, the benefits of this method such as being virtually invisible, easy to clean, comfortable, and the treatment time may make it worth it.

6. Invisalign braces at Sakura Dental Clinic

At Sakura Dental Clinic Phu My Hung, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City, we recognize the value of a confident smile. This pioneering orthodontic treatment is sophisticated, comfortable, effective and one of our signature services. Sakura Dental Clinic’s skilled dentists combine modern technology with dedicated patient care to deliver excellent Invisalign treatment. Contact us to schedule a consultation and start your journey to your perfect smile!

Invisalign treatment is an advanced orthodontic solution, ensuring both functional and aesthetic effectiveness. However, its price can be quite high for some customers, so we have researched and proposed a transparent braces solution with equivalent quality but the cost is only about 60-70% compared to transparent braces. That is our "Sakura Tray" solution.

Do not hesitate to contact Sakura Dental, we will explain in detail to you about the "Sakura Tray" solution and help you choose the most suitable clear braces solution for you.