It’s no secret that a beautiful smile full of straight teeth can boost your self-esteem and confidence. Unfortunately, the discomfort and time associated with traditional metal and wire braces dissuade some people from wanting them. VP Dental offers Invisalign in Raleigh, NC. Invisalign is virtually invisible, includes no metal, and is custom-made for your unique teeth.
What is Invisalign?
The California company Align Technology created Invisalign. It is a teeth-straightening treatment that uses clear, removable plastic trays we call “aligners.” These aligners are made of smooth, flexible plastic and are sturdy and far more comfortable than traditional bracket and wire braces.
Invisalign helps straighten your teeth into alignment and improve your smile. It is very effective and far less restrictive than traditional braces.
At VP Dental, we understand that each patient’s orthodontic needs are unique. That’s why Dr. Preston will customize your Invisalign treatment plan to address your specific concerns and deliver optimal results. Whether you have crowded teeth, gaps between your teeth, or a misaligned bite, Invisalign can help you achieve a beautifully straight smile.
Understanding How It Works
Dr. Preston, your certified Invisalign dentist, will take a digital imprint of your teeth. This imprint allows her to use computer technology to design your aligners. You can see your virtual treatment plan and get a preview of what your smile will look like even before treatment begins!
Your digital file has been sent to Align Technology for the creation of the aligners. Once you have your aligner, you’ll wear it 22 hours each day, taking it out only to eat or brush and floss your teeth.
The aligners fit comfortably over your teeth to slowly correct your smile. The series of trays are changed every few weeks and gradually shift your teeth into their ideal positions. You’ll need to see Dr. Preston regularly until treatment is complete to ensure your aligners work correctly.
What Are The Benefits of Invisalign?
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1. Discreet Appearance
Invisalign aligners are made from clear, BPA–free plastic, making them virtually invisible when worn. This allows you to straighten your teeth discreetly without drawing unnecessary attention to your orthodontic treatment.
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2. Removability
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are removable. This means you can take them out while eating, brushing, and flossing, ensuring optimal oral hygiene throughout your treatment. It also means enjoying your favorite foods without worrying about dietary restrictions.
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3. Improved Comfort
Invisalign aligners are custom–made to fit your teeth snugly, making them more comfortable to wear than traditional braces. The absence of metal brackets and wires eliminates the risk of mouth sores and discomfort often associated with conventional orthodontic treatments.
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4. Shorter Treatment Time
When you receive Invisalign in Raleigh, NC, treatment typically takes less time than traditional braces, with an average treatment duration of 12 to 18 months. However, the duration may vary depending on the complexity of your case and your commitment to wearing the aligners for the recommended amount of time each day.
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5. Digital Treatment Planning
VP Dental utilizes advanced digital technology to create a customized treatment plan for each Invisalign patient. Our orthodontists use specialized software to create a 3D model of your teeth, allowing you to visualize the projected outcome of your treatment before it even begins.
The Invisalign Process
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1. Initial Consultation
During your initial consultation, Dr. Preston will evaluate your teeth and bite to determine if Invisalign is the right treatment option. She will discuss your goals, answer any questions you may have, and take digital impressions or X–rays if necessary.
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2. Custom Treatment Plan
Using the advanced Invisalign software, we will create a custom treatment plan tailored to your unique orthodontic needs. This plan will showcase the step–by–step progression of your tooth movements, allowing you to visualize your
future smile.
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3. Aligner Fabrication
Once your treatment plan is finalized, your custom aligners will be fabricated in a state–of–the–art Invisalign lab. Each set of aligners will be designed to exert gentle pressure on specific teeth, gradually guiding them into their desired positions.
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4. Fitting and Progress Checkups
You will receive a series of aligner sets, each worn for about two weeks before moving on to the next set. Our team will monitor your progress through regular checkup appointments to ensure that your treatment is on track and make any necessary adjustments.
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5. Completion and Retention
After completing your Invisalign treatment, you will receive a retainer to help maintain your newly aligned smile. Following our post–treatment instructions is crucial to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I care for my Invisalign?
Though you don’t wear aligner trays while you eat, they still need to be cleaned. It is best to clean your aligners twice daily by brushing them like you would your teeth. It only takes a couple of minutes to gently brush with a toothbrush and water. It is best to rinse the aligners each time you take them out to reduce bacteria buildup. And please avoid running them under hot water, as extreme temperatures can warp the plastic.
How long will my treatment take?
In general, each treatment time varies from 12 to 18 months. The length of your treatment depends entirely on the complexity of the alignment problems. It also depends on the patient’s diligence in wearing their aligners as directed. Some patients can complete their treatment in less than a year. As long as you wear your aligners as directed, you can start seeing results in only a few weeks. So, make sure you’re wearing yours!
Will Invisalign affect my speech?
Most patients experience a very slight lisp right at the beginning of treatment that disappears within a couple of days. If you continue to wear the aligners while talking, you will adjust your speech more quickly.
Does it hurt to wear aligners?
The first few days, each time you are given a new set of aligners, you may feel a bit sore. This soreness is perfectly normal and a sign that the aligners are doing their job.
Can I smoke with Invisalign?
Ask any dentist, and they will warn you of the dangers smoking has on tooth decay and gum disease. All dentists discourage smoking. During Invisalign treatment, it can stain and discolor the aligners, which doesn’t make them so invisible anymore.
How often should I wear my Invisalign aligners?
For optimal results, it is recommended to wear your Invisalign aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, removing them only for eating, drinking (except for water), brushing, and flossing.
Can I eat and drink with my aligners on?
No, you should remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. This prevents staining or damaging the aligners and allows you to maintain good oral hygiene.
Can Invisalign treat all orthodontic issues?
Invisalign is an effective treatment for many orthodontic issues, including crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. However, severe or complex cases may require alternative orthodontic solutions.
Get Started With Invisalign Raleigh, NC, Today!
If you’re ready to transform your smile discreetly and comfortably, schedule a consultation with VP Dental, your trusted provider of Invisalign in Raleigh, NC. Dr. Preston will evaluate your orthodontic needs and create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve the straight, beautiful smile you’ve always wanted. Contact us today to take the first step towards a confident new you!