Did you know that metal braces are not your only choice for enjoying an even smile? We can actually use a barely visible alternative to improve the alignment of your smile. How do clear braces work? With Invisalign® we can employ a series of clear plastic aligners to correct crooked or crowded teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions About Clear Braces

Question: Who qualifies for Invisalign® clear braces?

Answer: We typically recommend our clear braces for patients that are over the age of 16 and have more minor cases of misalignment. For serious malocclusion we may still suggest metal braces. We will examine the patient’s smile to assess the cause and severity of misalignment before recommending the most appropriate orthodontic treatment

Question: How long will I wear them?

Answer: The clear plastic aligners will be worn every day for between 20 and 23 hours. The patient upgrades to a new set about once every two weeks. Total treatment time takes about a year for adults and 18 months for teens on average. However, the exact time will depend on the severity of misalignment.

Question: What are the benefits?

Answer: First, the aligners are barely visible, which is preferred by our adult and teen patients. Next, they are comfortable and don’t cause the gum and cheek irritation often reported with braces. You can remove them before meals, so you don’t need to change your diet or avoid certain foods that would become stuck in your braces. In addition, being able to remove the aligners means you can more thoroughly brush and floss your teeth.

Question: How does misalignment impact my smile?

Answer: Without treatment, an uneven smile not only impacts your appearance, but also hurts your oral health. Crooked or crowded teeth can lead to a greater risk of tooth decay, gingivitis, TMJ disorder, and even bruxism (teeth grinding).