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| Orthodontics InfoCenter is an Internet resource that offers you an opportunity to research orthodontics. Orthodontics InfoCenter does not offer medical advice or referrals. |
InvisalignIn the past, traditional braces were one of the few permanent ways to straighten teeth. Today, people can also opt for a new procedure known as Invisalign. This technique works utilizing a series of clear plastic molds that work to gradually move and straighten crooked or misplaced teeth. Invisalign BasicsHow exactly does Invisalign work? Your dentist will start by creating a mold of your teeth in order to produce the additional molds that will be used to steadily straighten your teeth. Using a computer-imaging program, dentists are able to make a series of molds that will be used to progressively move your teeth to new positions. The number of molds required for each patient can vary considerably, but the average number ranges between 16 and 30. Aside from meals, patients must wear each clear plastic retainer for 24 hours each day. Every two weeks, the patient will switch to a new mold. Reasons to Choose InvisalignOne of the biggest motivations to choose Invisalign is that it eliminates the “metal mouth” of traditional braces. The obviousness of traditional metal braces is a prominent reason why adults refuse to have their teeth straightened. In most cases, other people will not even be able to tell that you are wearing the clear Invisalign retainers. Due to this discreetness, Invisalign has become particularly popular with adult patients. Invisalign vs. Traditional BracesOnly you can decide which orthodontic option in right for your needs. Invisalign and traditional braces both take approximately the same amount of time, but Invisalign can cost between 15 and 50 percent more than traditional braces. The exact cost will vary considerably depending upon how much your teeth need to be adjusted. However, the greatest benefit of choosing Invisalign over braces is the ability to straighten teeth without having everyone else know. Many adults are resigned to simply live with their crooked teeth because they do not want to deal with a mouth full of metal braces. Invisalign provides an alternative that is both inconspicuous and highly effective. |
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