Guy Mangia, DDS Sherman Oaks California

Invisalign® treatment can be used to gradually align your teeth through plastic trays that your dentist changes every two weeks. As the teeth move, you will not need to wear the plastic trays anymore, and the results are clear, natural-looking teeth with healthy gums and fresh breath. In this article, we'll take an in-depth look at how this popular treatment works and why it's one of the most effective ways to achieve straight teeth.

Powerful alternatives to braces

No longer are you stuck with braces as the only solution for fixing your crooked teeth. Thanks to modern treatments, there is a much more subtle, nearly invisible way to straighten your teeth without everyone knowing. They can improve your smile with straighter teeth in a more comfortable, convenient way than traditional orthodontics.

Many people want to fix their teeth

Fortunately, with today's technology, people can have straighter teeth without wearing that uncomfortable mouthguard. Many dentists have turned to use newer treatments to replace traditional braces. Invisalign treatment uses clear aligners attached to your teeth; in most cases, you will get a new set of aligners every few weeks until your teeth are perfectly straightened.

How do you know if you're a good candidate?

The first step in determining whether you're a good candidate for treatment is an initial consultation with a dentist who specializes in them. They will examine your teeth, bite, and jaw during your consultation to determine if you are an appropriate candidate for treatment. While it won't be necessary to do X-rays of your mouth at every visit, they might be required every few months during treatment so that progress can be monitored. 

What is the treatment process?

It is an alignment system that uses removable clear aligners to move teeth into position gradually. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks, and then it's swapped out for a new one. Many patients choose it because of its convenience and comfort, as well as its cosmetic appeal; many people wear Invisalign to avoid unsightly metal braces or to have straighter teeth than they're capable of getting with metal braces. Over time, your teeth can become straighter and more aligned—and you won't even notice you're wearing them! They are almost invisible, particularly compared to traditional orthodontic hardware.

How long will it take?

The average treatment takes about 12 to 18 months. It can take longer or shorter than that, depending on how long it takes for your teeth to move into their final position. You'll wear each set of trays for about two weeks before you get new ones. During that time, your teeth will move 1 to 2 millimeters every day, on average.

Each set of trays has different aligners, so you'll need to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and new trays. In between visits, though, it's important to wear your aligners as much as possible. The more time you wear them, the faster your teeth will move! Over time you'll likely need accessories like a retainer to keep your teeth in their final place.

Talk to your dentist about Invisalign

Invisalign may be the right solution for a straighter smile. If you are unsure, consult with your dentist to learn more. You can weigh the pros and cons for yourself in order to make the right choice for your dental health. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.guymangiadds.com or call Guy Mangia, DDS at (818) 940-0862 for an appointment in our Sherman Oaks office.

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