If you have crooked, misaligned teeth, several options exist to resolve this issue. Many patients think that traditional metal braces are the only way to straighten their smiles. However, metal braces have many inconveniences, such as dietary restrictions and oral hygiene hazards preventing patients from seeking treatment.
Gwaltney Dental proudly provides Invisalign invisible braces as a discreet alternative to traditional braces. Through invisible aligners in place of metal brackets and wires, you can straighten your smile without anyone knowing you are undergoing orthodontic treatment. Our doctors and dental care team are here to help you achieve your dream smile with our cosmetic dentistry services. Learn more about Invisalign below.
Invisalign for Teens and Adults in Suffolk, VA
Dr. Steve Gwaltney, Dr. J. Ryland Gwaltney, and Dr. Whitney Gwaltney offer experienced cosmetic dentistry services in Suffolk, VA. They have helped many patients straighten their smiles using Invisalign. Invisalign is a system of clear, plastic aligners that are to be worn over your teeth throughout the day.
You will be provided with all of your aligners upfront. Your doctor will instruct you when to change to a new set of aligners (usually every two weeks). If you wear these removable aligners for an average of 20-22 hours daily, your treatment plan will progress as intended.
Invisalign offers patients many benefits to consider, such as:
Removability – The plastic aligners are easy to put on and take off. Like a retainer, the aligners fit snuggly against your dental structures while in use. You should only remove your aligners to eat, drink, or brush your teeth. The removability makes your aligners easy to clean and helps you maintain your best oral hygiene habits without having to learn how to brush or floss around any metallic hardware.
No dietary restrictions – With traditional braces, patients are often advised to avoid chewy or crunchy foods while undergoing treatment. With traditional braces, you must be mindful that the brackets and wires could be broken while chewing. With Invisalign, you can remove your aligners before you eat. This means you can eat anything without worrying about damaging your aligners and prolonging your treatment plan.
Discreet use – Patients love Invisalign because not only is it more convenient than traditional braces, but it is also more discreet. The aligners are made of clear, plastic material, making them see-through while in use. Unless you remove your aligners in front of someone, no one should be able to tell that you are undergoing treatment. This makes special occasions like weddings, job interviews, and family reunions a lot easier to feel confident about.
How the Invisalign Process Works
Getting Invisalign is a step-by-step process that helps straighten your teeth without metal braces. Here’s what happens at each stage:
- First Consultation: Your dentist will assess your teeth and discuss if Invisalign is right for you. We will collect digital images and X-rays to create a custom treatment plan.
- Custom Treatment Plan: If you move forward, the dentist will create a custom plan showing how your teeth will shift. We can even show you a preview of your new smile before starting.
- Getting Your First Aligners: Once your clear aligners are ready, you’ll pick them up and try them on. They may feel tight at first, but that’s normal. You’ll wear them at least 22 hours a day. You are able to remove your clear aligners to eat, drink, and brush your teeth. We will provide you with instructions on how to care for them.
- Switching Aligners: Every one to two weeks, you’ll switch to a new set of aligners that gently move your teeth. You may feel slight pressure for a few days, but it gets easier over time.
- Checkups: You will need to visit our dental practice every six to eight weeks to ensure your teeth are moving correctly. We will adjust your plan accordingly if needed.
- Finishing Treatment: Once your teeth are in place, we will provide you with a retainer to keep them from shifting back. Your dentist will tell you how often to wear it.
Invisalign FAQs
When considering Invisalign as a teeth-straightening option, it’s natural to have questions and concerns. Our dentist office aims to clarify and address common questions in our FAQ section. Here, you’ll find complete answers to popular questions about Invisalign. Our team is committed to ensuring you have all the information you need to make an informed choice.
Is Invisalign painful?
No. Unlike metal braces, Invisalign is not painful. However, some patients might feel discomfort for the first time. This is likely due to the pressure exerted on the teeth and gums. Overall, Invisalign is an effective way to straighten teeth without braces; most patients don’t experience pain.
Can you sleep with Invisalign?
Yes, you can sleep with Invisalign. Invisalign benefits you the most when you have them in for more than 20 hours daily. Removing Invisalign before you go to sleep can affect the process of straightening your teeth.
Can Invisalign close gaps in teeth?
Yes, Invisalign can close teeth gaps. It is a good option for adults who want to close teeth gaps. Larger gaps in teeth may take longer to correct. These patients might need to wear Invisalign for up to two years. Your Invisalign treatment plan will also vary depending on your gap size.
Does Invisalign cause bad breath?
There is no evidence that Invisalign treatment itself causes bad breath. However, poor oral hygiene can lead to bad breath. You must clean your aligners often. Most dentists recommend that you clean your aligners at least every two weeks. You must also brush and floss your teeth regularly during your Invisalign treatment. You should drink plenty of water and clean your aligners after meals.
Can you get Invisalign with a broken tooth?
Yes, you can get Invisalign with a broken tooth. However, most dentists will strongly recommend that you fix your tooth first. After the dentist repairs the tooth, you can start Invisalign treatment.
Is there an age limit for Invisalign treatment?
There is no upper age limit for Invisalign treatment. It can be effective for teenagers and adults with healthy gums and teeth. Most dentists recommend that younger patients wait until their teeth have fully erupted. This usually happens around the age of 12 to 14. Your dentist can determine if Invisalign is suitable for you by assessing the health of your teeth and gums.
Request a Dental Exam to get Started with Invisalign in Suffolk, VA
It is never too late to pursue your dream smile. Adults and teens with mild to moderate orthodontic concerns can be treated using Invisalign. If you want to learn more about Invisalign and how it can help you and your smile, please schedule a consultation with one of our doctors. We look forward to helping you achieve a beautiful and healthy smile.