The number of people, both adults and children, that wear braces in the United States has increased by leaps and bounds over the past 30 years. Something else that has increased is the treatment options available for those who have misaligned teeth. Traditional metal braces are no longer your only option. You may want to visit a dentist who specializes in San Jose Invisalign treatment . He will be happy to discuss your specific case to see if you are a candidate for this type of treatment.
Invisalign works on the same theory as do traditional metal braces: they gradually shift your teeth into proper alignment over a period of time. The primary difference, however, is that the Invisalign treatment utilizes a clear invisible aligner that fits right over your teeth. There are no metal brackets to glue on to your teeth or metal wires that need to be tightened periodically. These clear aligners are molded specifically to your mouth and your teeth, and are often compared to a retainer. However, instead of simply holding your teeth in place like a retainer, they gently move your teeth to their new position.
Once you and your San Jose Invisalign dentist have determined this is the best option for your situation, he will take a number of x-rays and impressions of your teeth. This data is how the series of Invisalign aligners will be made. You will not have just one aligner throughout your treatment. There will be a series that you will exchange on a pre-determined time frame. In general, every two weeks you move to the next aligner in the series. They can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing but otherwise need to remain on your teeth at all times, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You will still need to visit your dentist for periodic checks to ensure this treatment plan is working for you.
Invisalign may not be right for everyone. For example, small children who do not have all of their adult teeth yet are not good candidates. However, many teens and adults have achieved success from using this type of treatment. It is a viable option for those who, for one reason or another, may not want to go the traditional route of metal braces.
