All About Invisalign

Thanks to the advances technology has made in recent years, the field of orthodontics has come a long way. Combined with modern techniques, these options let us offer treatment that is comfortable, efficient, and convenient. Invisalign is a perfect example.

If you’re unfamiliar with the Invisalign clear aligner system, it’s currently the most popular alternative to traditional braces. Instead of straightening smiles with brackets, wires, and bands, Invisalign uses removable clear aligners to give patients the same beautiful results.

Here at Surf City Smiles, we hear from many people who want to learn more about orthodontic treatment but aren’t sure traditional braces are something they want to pursue. They’re often looking for an option that won’t interfere with their busy lives and offers a more discreet experience. Does this sound like you? If so, Invisalign could be exactly what you’re looking for.

Because Invisalign offers a measure of freedom and flexibility that traditional braces just can’t match, our teen and adult patients love it. But what exactly is Invisalign? Let’s take a closer look at how this treatment can give you a straighter, healthier smile without interrupting your day-to-day life.

What is Invisalign?

To understand how Invisalign differs from braces, it helps to know a little about both fixed and removable orthodontic appliances. Metal and clear braces, along with self-ligating options, are what we call a fixed orthodontic appliance. The brackets attach directly to the teeth and can only be removed by a trained orthodontic specialist. Invisalign, on the other hand, is a removable appliance. Although it is custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth, nothing is attached to the teeth themselves. Instead, a series of removable plastic aligners shift the teeth into the desired positions over time.

People are sometimes surprised the first time they see an Invisalign aligner, but the design is deceptively simple. The clear trays are made of a special thermoplastic resin that is comfortable but still strong enough to correct a wide variety of orthodontic issues. To move the teeth and achieve the desired results, you wear your aligners for a set number of hours each day. You also switch them out for the next tray in the series at intervals determined by Dr. Carlson.

How does Invisalign work?

When you visit our Huntington Beach office for the first time, Dr. Carlson examines your mouth thoroughly. Our team also takes digital photographs of your teeth and may do a series of X-rays. If the exam and images show that you are a good fit for Invisalign, we begin mapping out a precise treatment plan using a detailed 3D scan of your teeth and gums. This plan includes the exact movements we want your teeth to make.

Once your treatment plan is complete, we start designing your aligners. The trays are customized to your unique smile for a snug but comfortable fit. Invisalign’s SmartTrack material gives aligners their durability and near invisibility. The total number of aligners needed varies from patient to patient, but most need anywhere from 10 to 48 to produce the best results. Treatment time varies too, but you can expect it to last roughly 6-18 months on average. Your individual treatment plan will give us a good idea of how long your treatment is likely to take.

As the patient, you play an important role in the success of your treatment. Because your aligners are removable, the system relies on you to get the job done. You wear your aligners 20-22 hours every day throughout the process to achieve the desired results. To keep your teeth moving, you also switch to the next tray in the series at regular intervals, generally every 1-2 weeks depending on your plan.

You’ll see us less often than a braces patient would, but regular check-ups are still an essential part of treatment. These visits are scheduled roughly every 4-8 weeks, and they’re fairly quick since there are no appliances to adjust. During your appointments, Dr. Carlson checks how your teeth are moving and makes sure everything is progressing the way it should.

Who is a good candidate for Invisalign?

Invisalign can be an excellent option for many teen and adult patients with mild to moderate orthodontic issues. If your case is particularly complex or severe, it may require more precise tooth control than a removable aligner can achieve. If a more traditional method would suit you better, Dr. Carlson will discuss that with you during your consultation. You can also compare your options on our clear aligners page.

What are the benefits of Invisalign?

There are quite a few benefits to Invisalign. A lack of food restrictions is a big one for many patients. To protect their appliance, braces patients have to avoid a number of crunchy and chewy foods during treatment. It’s worth it in the end, but it can be a real learning curve.

Removable aligners mean you simply take them out whenever you eat or drink anything other than water, then put them back in when you’re done. This also makes dental hygiene easier. Braces can make brushing and flossing difficult and time-consuming, but with Invisalign you take the aligners out and brush and floss as normal.

What happens once Invisalign treatment is complete?

No matter what type of orthodontic appliance you have, your teeth remember their previous place in your mouth and begin drifting back there over time without something in place to stop them. That’s why wearing a retainer is so important for every orthodontic patient. Once you’ve completed your Invisalign treatment, our office provides you with a retainer. For the longest-lasting results, always wear it exactly as directed.

Find your best smile with Invisalign and Surf City Smiles

Invisalign clear aligner therapy is our most popular alternative to braces for a reason. The system offers a discreet treatment option that is changing the way people think about straightening their teeth. We welcome patients from across Orange County, including those looking for Invisalign in Newport Beach. Would you like more information on how this system can help you find your best smile? Get in touch today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward a better smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hours a day do I have to wear Invisalign?

Most patients wear their aligners 20 to 22 hours a day, taking them out only to eat, drink anything other than water, brush, and floss. Consistent wear is what keeps your teeth moving on schedule, so the results really depend on how faithfully you keep them in.

Can Invisalign fix the same problems as braces?

Invisalign treats many of the same issues braces do, including crowding, gaps, and common bite problems, for mild to moderate cases. Very complex cases sometimes need the precise control that fixed braces provide. A consultation is the best way to find out which option fits your smile.

How often do I switch to a new set of aligners?

Most patients move to the next tray in the series every one to two weeks, based on their treatment plan. Each new set makes small, precise adjustments, so following the schedule matters for staying on track.