What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign is the invisible way to straighten teeth without braces. Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth, without metal or wires.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign uses 3-D computer imaging technology to depict the complete treatment plan from the initial position to the final desired (treatment) position, from which a series of custom-made, clear "aligners" are produced. Each "aligner" moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.
What are the primary benefits of Invisalign?
- Invisalign is virtually invisible, so you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.
- Invisalign is removable. Unlike traditional braces, you can eat and drink what you want during treatment. You can also brush and floss normally to maintain good oral hygiene.
- Invisalign is comfortable. There are no metal brackets or wires as with conventional braces to cause mouth irritation, and no metal or wires means your periodic check and adjustment appointments are short and uncomplicated.
What are aligners made of?
Aligners are made of clear, strong medical grade plastic that is virtually invisible when worn.
What do aligners look like?
Aligners are clear and look similar to tooth-whitening trays, but are custom-made for a better fit to move teeth. Some orthodontists refer to them as "contact lenses for teeth.”
Is this a new way to straighten teeth?
With over 800,000 cases already treated, there is a fast-growing body of clinical research supporting the effectiveness of the Invisalign system. With a robust library of clinical articles published in peer-reviewed journals, inclusion in several academic textbooks and a comprehensive collection of case-based research, the clinical evidence in support of the Invisalign system is well established.
How old is the company?
Align Technology, Inc., the company that manufactures Invisalign, was founded in 1997. Since then, Align has manufactured over 15,000,000 aligners.
Do doctors need special training in order to use Invisalign?
Yes. Specific training is needed. All orthodontists treating patients with Invisalign must be “Invisalign certified.”
How does Invisalign effectively move teeth?
Invisalign aligners move teeth through the appropriate placement of controlled force on the teeth. Invisalign not only controls forces, but also controls the timing of the force application. At each aligner stage (generally every two weeks), only certain teeth are allowed to move, and these movements are determined by the orthodontic treatment plan for that particular stage. This results in an efficient force delivery system.