As your Newport News, VA dentist, we are here to answer any questions you have about our dental services. Many patients visit our office looking to learn more about Invisalign for straightening crooked teeth. We are happy to provide Invisalign to help treat mild to moderate orthodontic concerns. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions regarding Invisalign:
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign is a system of clear aligners, similar to retainers, that are to be worn over your teeth throughout your treatment plan. They are removable oral appliances that are usually replaced every two weeks to ensure your treatment plan progresses. As you wear the aligners, they will gradually encourage your teeth to shift into straighter positions. Once your treatment is complete, which could take several months or longer depending on the severity of your misalignment, you will have a stunningly straight and completely functional bite pattern.
Should I get braces instead?
Traditional braces involve the use of metal brackets and wires that are permanently secured to your dental structures for the entirety of your treatment plan. This means you will have to make several lifestyle alterations while undergoing treatment. Invisalign offers patients with mild to moderate orthodontic concerns to straighten their smiles without the use of metal brackets and wires. However, patients may need further treatment than Invisalign allows for if their orthodontic concerns are severe. During your consultation, our doctors will be able to tell you which treatment is recommended for you and your smile’s needs.
What are the benefits of Invisalign?
Because Invisalign is removable, this means you are allowed to remove the aligners before you eat, drink, or brush your teeth. Patients love Invisalign’s removability because it allows them to maintain their current diets as well as their at-home oral hygiene routines. Patients with braces often struggle to keep their teeth clean because food residue gets stuck between the brackets and wires. Invisalign patients do not have to worry about this issue. Additionally, Invisalign patients can look forward to spending less time in the dental chair than patients being treated using traditional braces. Braces require routine visits to the dentist to tighten the wires and ensure the treatment plan is progressing. However, Invisalign patients are supplied with all of their aligners upfront. While some check-up appointments may be necessary with Invisalign, it is significantly less time spent in the dentist’s office compared to traditional treatment options.
Schedule Your Invisalign Consultation Today
Dr. William Harper is an experienced restorative and cosmetic dentist serving Poquoson, Newport News, Hampton Roads, and surrounding Virginian communities. If you are interested in learning more about what Invisalign can do for your smile, please schedule a consultation with him online.