For many patients a diagnosis of a malocclusion requiring orthodontics might strike fear at the thought of metal bands and brackets. However, thanks to Invisalign, patients now definitely have a clear alternative to traditional braces.

Invisalign is a program designed to gently shift teeth to their correct position through a series of clear, soft plastic aligners. Invisalign can be used to address most situations involving a cross bite, under bite, over bite or spaces between teeth. A consultation with your dentist will be required to make sure you are a candidate for Invisalign.

Once determined that you qualify for Invisalign, your dentist will take pictures, x-rays, and dental impressions that will be sent to the Invisalign laboratory. With the use of 3D digital technology, a series of aligners will be designed that will allow for the gentle repositioning of your teeth to correct your bite. Every few weeks, your dentist will place a new aligner as your teeth slowly shift to their correct position.

The Invisalign aligners have many advantages over metal bands and brackets. Since the aligners are clear, the patient will be able to have their teeth straightened by virtually undetectable means. Invisalign aligners are removable, allowing the patient to enjoy a totally unrestricted diet. This also allows for easy access to maintain excellent oral hygiene habits like daily flossing and brushing that are much more difficult when wearing traditional braces.

Since there are no wires needed, the abrasions often suffered when wearing metal braces are eliminated. Traditional braces stay on the teeth throughout the entire straightening process. Being able to remove the Invisalign aligners during the periodic visits to your dentist also provides the ability to better monitor your dental health and help keep dental decay in check.

Removing the aligners allows you and your dentist to visually see the progress being made. However, it is necessary to wear the aligners a minimum of twenty to twenty-two hours per day to achieve the desired results. Treatment time for adults generally can vary from six months to two years. Youngsters and teens can expect treatment time to be about the same with Invisalign as traditional braces.

A consultation with one of our dentists to determine if you are a candidate for this exciting method of straightening your teeth is the first step on your way to your new smile.  Call our Surrey office at 604-283-9076  to schedule an appointment.