Invisalign® offers our Des Moines, IA, residents an alternative to metal braces for correcting the alignment of the teeth. But what makes them such a comfortable (and barely visible) option for fixing crooked or crowded teeth? In today’s blog, we’re going to look at how we design and create the aligners, and what the treatment process entails.

Correcting Smiles With Clear Aligners

The patient won’t need to wear metal braces for two years. Instead, a set of clear aligners made from a BPA-free acrylic material will be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. After about two weeks, the patient will move on to the next set in the series. Over the course of a year, the aligners will begin moving the teeth and improving overall alignment, gently and carefully. Teens and adults enjoy orthodontics that are nearly invisible, and also avoid the gum and cheek irritation often reported with metal orthodontics.

Creating Your Appliances

To ensure a comfortable fit and accurate treatment, we will custom-make each set for our patients. To begin, we take a series of detail digital images of your smile, as well as measurements, which we use to create a 3D computer model. We use the information gathered to then design and craft the aligners. When we complete them, you will begin the treatment process. We’ll be available to answer your questions or offer tips throughout the process, so don’t hesitate to contact us with questions or concerns.

Benefits of Treatment

First, treatment requires fewer office visits than traditional braces, which saves you both time and money. Next, you can actually remove the orthodontics prior to meals, so you don’t have to avoid certain foods or make changes to your diet. In addition, the removable nature of the orthodontics means a much easier time thoroughly brushing and flossing throughout the treatment process, helping you enjoy better oral health and a reduced risk of stained teeth. While braces typically need at least two years to straighten smiles, most adults see optimal results in as little as a year. Teens may require up to 18 months, as their mouths are still growing and developing. Finally, you won’t worry about the negative impact to your professional appearance, as when worn the aligners will be barely noticeable. If you have any questions about correcting misalignment or if you would like to learn more about the Invisalign® system, then please contact our team today to set up a consultation.

Ready To Try Invisalign®?

We can help you enjoy better oral health with custom-made cosmetic orthodontics. For more information on the Invisalign system, or the benefits of treating your misalignment, then schedule a consultation with Dr. Burds by calling Gateway Dental Group in downtown Des Moines, IA, at (515) 244-9565.