Brookhaven Dental Associates are a diamond Invisalign provider

At Brookhaven Dental Associates in Brookhaven, we offer Invisalign to patients who want a low-profile solution to orthodontic problems. It’s no secret that straight, well-aligned teeth are an important part of a great smile. A person’s smile is one of the first things we notice about them, and the way our smiles look play a huge role in our confidence. 

 

Unfortunately, the inconvenience and discomfort often associated with traditional braces keep some of our patients from wanting to straighten their teeth. Maybe they’re worried about getting teased at school for being a “brace-face,” or maybe they’re adults who don’t want to look like a teenager because of braces. For these patients, Invisalign could be the perfect solution. You also don’t have to wait until the end of your treatment to whiten your teeth.

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How Invisalign Works

Invisalign uses a series of soft plastic aligners that fit comfortably over your teeth to gradually and gently straighten your smile. No wires or brackets to irritate your mouth! Unlike traditional braces, you can remove your Invisalign aligner during your oral hygiene routines and while eating your favorite meals. Brushing and flossing are not complicated and you don’t have to give up any of the foods you love.

 

The average treatment time with Invisalign ranges from nine to 18 months, but the length of treatment will depend on the severity of the alignment problems being corrected, as well as the diligence of the patient in wearing their aligners as directed. Just like with traditional braces, following the dentist’s instructions is crucial to stay on schedule for the end of treatment. Make sure you’re wearing your aligners!

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The Daily Invisalign Experience

For the first few days of each stage of your Invisalign treatment, you may feel minor discomfort as your teeth get used to the added pressure, similar to what traditional braces patients experience after adjustments. This is perfectly normal and a sign that the aligners are doing their job. 

 

The difference is that with Invisalign, you may be tempted to take the aligners off to relieve the pressure. Resist that temptation, because it will delay your results! You should wear your aligners at all times during your treatment, except during meals and snacks and while brushing and flossing your teeth. Wearing them less often will make your treatment take longer.

 

Potential patients often ask if Invisalign will make it difficult to speak clearly. Most Invisalign patients experience very little difficulty with speaking clearly while wearing their aligners, but there will likely be an adjustment period as you get used to having them in your mouth.

 

Caring for Your Invisalign Trays

To clean your aligners, brush and rinse them in lukewarm water and use Invisalign Cleaning Crystals or special cleaning tablets. Make sure you’re also brushing and flossing after each meal before you re-insert your aligners.

 

One of the best advantages of Invisalign over traditional wire braces is that there is no banned foods list! As long as you are brushing and flossing before putting your aligners back in, you can enjoy all your favorite foods without compromising your orthodontic treatment!

 

Gum can stick to your aligners, so it’s not a good idea to chew it while they’re in. Take your aligners out for all meals and snacks. We also discourage smoking during Invisalign treatment, as it can stain and discolor the aligners, as well as putting you at risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

 

Why Invisalign Over Other Products?

Invisalign is an excellent choice for your orthodontic treatment. It is a trusted brand in invisible aligners, and you’ll love the freedom of being able to take your aligners out to eat and brush your teeth. You can even view your virtual treatment plan before beginning and get a preview of what your smile will look like at the end!

 

Retainers After Invisalign 

Retainers are crucial at the end of any orthodontic treatment, whether you’re using Invisalign or traditional wire braces, because it takes time for teeth to get used to their new positions. Make sure to wear your retainers as directed by your Brookhaven dentists. Make sure to get directions before heading to our Brookhaven practice.