Invisalign®
Life with Your Braces | Orthodontic Treatments | Invisalign® | In-Ovation | Types of Braces
Types of Appliances | Palatal Expander Care | Retainers
Drs. Lippincott, Zimmer and Lippincott are certified Invisalign providers as well as university-trained, licensed specialists in orthodontists.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign uses a series of removable retainers or "aligners" to put gentle pressure on the teeth and move them in a pre-planned direction. Since the aligners are thin, clear and flexible, they are almost invisible and more comfortable to wear than retainers with wires or conventional braces. Invisalign aligners are made with 3-D computer imaging so the treatment is customized to individual patient needs.
How does Invisalign work?
The patient wears each aligner set 20-22 hours per day for 3-4 weeks, removing them to eat, drink, brush and floss, and for vigorous physical activity such as swimming, and contact sports. As the patient wears the aligner sets in sequence, the teeth move – little by little, week by week – until they have straightened to the final position planned by the doctor. The patient will see the doctor for an office visit every 6-8 weeks to provide new sets of aligners and monitor treatment progress.
Total treatment time varies according to the goals of treatment and how well the patient wears and takes care of the aligners.
Is Invisalign an option for me?
Invisalign is not able to obtain certain types of tooth movement possible only with conventional braces, and is generally not appropriate for more complex treatment such as when the removal of selected permanent teeth or surgery is needed. However, it can be a good option for simpler treatment plans such as those with minimal crowding or spacing or which do not require changes in the bite. The doctor will be able to tell if Invisalign is an option for you during the initial visit. Other advantages and limitations can be discussed at that time as well.
Learn more about Invisalign on their web site at www.invisalign.com.
