How Do Invisible Braces Work?

If you are interested in straightening your teeth, but want to avoid the wires and brackets of traditional braces, you might want to look into invisible braces.  Invisible braces can provide the same results as traditional metal braces in the same amount of time without the hassle and pain of having a mouth full of metal.

There are many benefits to using invisible braces.  The first benefit is the most obvious - they are invisible.  No one will be able to tell that you are straightening your teeth.  You can be confident to smile throughout your treatment.  Another benefit is that they are removable.  Though you will wear them through the majority of your day, you can remove them to eat, drink, brush and floss.  They are also more comfortable than traditional braces.  There is no metal to cause cuts or sores in your mouth, and you will spend less time at appointments having adjustments and tightenings.

The treatment plan for invisible braces is generally shorter than the treatment plan for metal braces.  In comparison, a patient will wear invisible braces for approximately 15 months.  On average, a patient wears metal braces for about two years.

When you begin your treatment, you will be fitted for your first set of invisible braces.  Each set is a clear plastic tray that is fitted over your teeth.  You will wear each set of aligners for approximately 2 weeks before switching to the next set.  Each course of aligners is designed to move the teeth .25 millimeters.  As you replace each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move. 

Over the course of your treatment, your teeth will slowly move into place until they have reached their final, straightened position.  You will visit your dentist about every six weeks throughout the course of your treatment.  Your dentist will check to ensure that your invisible braces are working properly and that your treatment is progressing as expected.