| Invisalign is an
alternative to conventional metal braces. They were developed in the 1990s
and have become very popular. As the picture on the right shows,
Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners that are manufactured by computer
so that they apply pressure to your teeth that causes them to move. Every
two weeks you insert a new aligner, and gradually, over a period of six to
twelve months, your teeth are straightened.
Advantages of Invisalign
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The most obvious
advantage is that people can't tell you are wearing braces. From
conversational distance, they are truly invisible. |
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Since you remove
the aligners before eating, there are no food restrictions or problems
with flossing or brushing. |
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They are much more
comfortable. There are no metal brackets to irritate your cheek or
your tongue. |
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They are faster.
While conventional braces can take two to three years to straighten
your teeth, Invisalign typically takes one year or less. Because your
tooth movement is computer-engineered, it is much more efficient and
therefore faster. |
Disadvantages of Invisalign
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Because of the high
laboratory costs, Invisalign
invisible braces are a little more expensive than
conventional orthodontic treatment. |
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They are not
appropriate for every patient. Some cases cannot be treated this way
and require conventional braces. |
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Patient cooperation
is required. If the patient doesn't remember to wear the aligners or
refuses to cooperate, they won't work. |
If you have crooked teeth, your teeth can also be
made to look straight in just two appointments with
porcelain veneers. |
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