When you hear the word “braces,” you most likely imagine years of unattractive wires, multiple tightening appointments, and gum irritation. These things can hold adult patients back from correcting misalignment. Chandler, AZ dentist Dr. Mark Arooni recommends Invisalign® for a discreet correction. These clear aligners are translucent, which gives patients the ability to improve their smile, without others noticing. Porcelain veneers can be used as instant orthodontics. However, veneers don’t move teeth. Instead, they simply conceal imperfections. Invisalign® aligners gradually shift teeth into a more appealing position to enhance your smile appearance.
What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign® treatment straightens teeth to correct misalignment and malocclusion. Dr. Arooni recommends this procedure for adult patients who want a beautiful smile, but don’t have the time for a lengthy treatment plan. Each set of aligners is created from thin, clear plastic. Invisalign® aligners are typically worn for 9-15 months, however the duration of your treatment depends on the level of correction needed.
Dr. Arooni will take a dental impression, which he will send to the off-site Invisalign® lab. Highly skilled technicians will create multiple sets of aligners for you. At your second appointment, Dr. Arooni will explain how to wear your aligners and instruct you to switch sets every two weeks. Each time you begin a new set of aligners; you are advancing to the next step in your treatment.
For the most beneficial results, aligners should be worn for 20-22 hours a day. You should remove your clear braces for mealtime and when you drink beverages that aren’t water. Many patients enjoy the freedom of removing their braces when they please. However, if the braces aren’t worn for the recommended amount of time, the results won’t be as dramatic as they could be.
Invisalign® vs. Traditional Braces
For traditional braces to be effective, they must be worn for at least two years. Invisalign® is worn for approximately one year. Many adult patients appreciate the shorter duration of treatment.
A common complaint with traditional braces is that they’re uncomfortable. The wires often rub against gums, causing irritation and sometimes bleeding. Clear braces are made from soft plastic; therefore they fit comfortable over the teeth and do not cause discomfort. Many patients even forget that they’re wearing their braces throughout the day.
Invisalign® aligners are removable, meaning there aren’t food restrictions as there are with traditional braces. With traditional braces, dentists instruct patients to stay away from hard or sticky foods. Dr. Arooni asks that you take out your clear braces for mealtime so that food doesn’t get trapped or ruin the condition of your aligners.
An advantage of traditional braces is that they’re permanent. Invisalign® aligners should be worn for the majority of the day. Forget patients don’t always benefit from removable braces.
Invisalign® vs. Veneers
Porcelain veneers instantly improve smiles by covering minor tooth flaws. Dr. Arooni bonds thin, porcelain shells over unattractive teeth to create an entirely new image. If you have an oddly shaped or aligned tooth, Dr. Arooni may recommend a veneer over orthodontic treatment. Porcelain veneers don’t move teeth, but instead simply conceal the imperfection.
For patients with malocclusion, a veneer won’t work. Braces are needed to move the position of teeth, ultimately correcting bite in the process.