Correcting teeth misalignment is important to enjoying a conventionally attractive smile and good oral health. Straight teeth look healthier and they make it easier to bite, chew and speak comfortably. They are also easier to brush and floss, and therefore less likely to develop problems like cavities and gum disease.
If your teeth are not naturally straight and aligned, or if they have shifted over time, you have several correction options. Dr. William Munn recommends Invisalign to qualified candidates because of the ease, comfort and effectiveness of the orthodontic system.
How Does Invisalign Work?
The Invisalign system uses plastic aligners to move your teeth incrementally into optimal alignment and position. They can be used to correct the following:
- Crooked teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Gapped teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
Invisalign aligners are clear and very discreet, making it unlikely anyone will be able to tell you are wearing them. Invisalign aligners are also conveniently removable for eating, drinking, oral hygiene and important events. You do not have to worry about trying to brush or floss around a complicated system of metal brackets or wires, or struggle with getting food particles stuck in between your braces. If you have a big work meeting or are having important photos taken, you can quickly remove your aligners and reinsert them afterward.
Your aligners will be custom-crafted to your exact measurements and specifications. As you go through the treatment process, sets of upper and lower aligners will be provided to you in a specific sequence based on your natural tooth position/alignment and desired goals. Every one to two weeks, you will switch out your aligner set for the next set in the sequence.
Total treatment time varies based on the severity of the issue. Some patients are able to achieve their final results in approximately six months; others require a year or more to attain perfect tooth alignment and positioning. Dr. Munn can estimate a treatment timeline after learning more about your case and individual needs.
Treatment Process Details
Your Invisalign treatment will begin with an examination and consultation with Dr. Munn. During the discussion, he will ask you what you hope to achieve from treatment, and explain what to expect (in terms of the use and wear of your aligners, the cost and estimated timeframe).
If you decide to move forward with Invisalign, the dentist will take X-rays and photographs of your teeth and mouth, creating a map to guide your treatment. Dr. Munn will also take impressions of your teeth. This information is sent to the Invisalign lab that constructs your customized aligners.
Once your first set is ready, Dr. Munn will review the fit with you and provide instructions for wearing and caring for your aligners. Generally, you should wear the aligners as much as possible throughout the day and night. This will help you see the fastest results.
Over the next few months, our team will check in with you periodically to ensure you are swapping out your aligners appropriately and making the desired progress. Little by little, your teeth will move closer to the final position. If you have questions in between check-ups, contact our office at your convenience.
When you have finished Invisalign treatment, Dr. Munn can discuss options like a retainer to maintain the improved position and alignment of your teeth.
Learn More about Invisalign
Dr. William Munn will strive to create your straightest and healthiest smile possible with Invisalign. For more information about this popular alternative to traditional braces, please contact our Sandston dentistry office today.
