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Invisalign® clear aligners are one of the most in-demand orthodontic solutions available. These aligners are very difficult to notice, even up close, unlike traditional metal braces. This allows patients to straighten their teeth without the whole world knowing.
At Windy City Family Dental, our qualified Invisalign dentist offers personalized treatment for patients who want to improve their smiles with orthodontics. We also offer other cosmetic dentistry services to help patients achieve straighter, beautiful smiles. These services include dental bonding, crowns, teeth whitening, and veneers in Chicago.
Continue reading to learn more about how we use Invisalign in Chicago, IL to improve oral health and smile appearance for our patients.
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign is quite similar to braces as far as the treatment process goes. When you undergo Invisalign therapy, you will receive a series of clear aligners that straighten your teeth over time. Replaced approximately every two weeks, each set of aligners will gradually shift your natural teeth by applying pressure.
Once your teeth are in proper alignment, the treatment is complete. Trays are replaced with retainers, which must be worn every day to maintain the final results.
The Invisalign Process
Every successful treatment plan begins with a consultation with our Chicago Invisalign dentist. During your consultation, we will discuss your smile goals and examine your teeth and jaw. After a thorough exam and dental X-rays, we’ll determine if you’re a good candidate for aligners. Most people who are in good oral health are able to undergo orthodontic treatment with Invisalign.
The next step involves creating a custom series of aligners. Impressions are taken of your teeth to create realistic molds. Your dentist will use these molds and state-of-the-art technology to develop a map of your treatment plan.
The plan will include a comprehensive view of how your smile will look after wearing each set of aligners in the series. You should have an image of your end results before you even begin treatment.
Life With Invisalign
As with traditional braces, there are some aspects of Invisalign that take some getting-used-to. Invisalign must be worn 20-22 hours a day and removed only for eating, drinking (excluding water), and daily care.
It’s recommended to brush your teeth after meals and rinse your aligners each time they are removed. In the morning and at night, Invisalign aligners should be deep cleaned. Your dentist will instruct you on how to properly care for your aligner trays.
Comparing Invisalign to Braces
Many people wonder what the differences are between Invisalign and traditional metal braces. Some of the variations are obvious while others are more subtle.
- Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, clear aligners that are virtually invisible to straighten teeth. This innovative technology provides a stark contrast to traditional braces, which use noticeable metal brackets and wires to move teeth.
- With Invisalign, you can eat whatever you like and still maintain your oral hygiene with ease. Braces are more likely to trap food against teeth and gum tissue. Braces are also susceptible to breaking when patients indulge in particularly hard, crunchy, or sticky foods. This means things like candy and popcorn are off the menu.
- Crafted from smooth plastic, Invisalign aligners are designed to gently align your teeth without the irritation to your cheeks and gums often experienced with metal braces.
- Invisalign is removable, allowing patients to clean their aligners and teeth thoroughly. Braces can only be removed by a dental professional, which makes it difficult to maintain oral hygiene. Therefore, you’re less likely to suffer from tooth decay if you choose Invisalign over braces.
- No special tools are required for at-home care when wearing Invisalign. Patients who wear braces often have to use special flossing devices to clean around metal brackets and wires.
Invisalign offers a discreet, comfortable, and convenient way to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Contact us at Windy City Family Dental to learn more.
How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?
Treatment time for Invisalign therapy varies from case to case. Individuals with more severe orthodontic conditions will inevitably require longer treatment than patients with minor issues. Some patients can expect to wear aligners for only 6 months while others may require a 2 year treatment plan. The average patient wears Invisalign for about 12 months.
In order for your treatment to be successful, you must wear your aligners at least 20-22 hours per day.
The Health Benefits of Straight Teeth
Although many people undergo orthodontic care with the intention of achieving a beautiful smile, there’s more to straight teeth than aesthetics. Having a well-aligned smile can provide many health benefits, including:
- Reduced Dental Erosion
Teeth that are misaligned can grind against one another and cause damage in the form of enamel erosion, chips, cracks, and breaks. - Improved Oral Function
People living with crooked teeth, gapping, overcrowding, or malocclusion may have difficulty chewing their food or even speaking. - Reduced Teeth Grinding & TMJ Symptoms
Untreated orthodontic issues can lead to TMJ disorders and teeth grinding (bruxism). These conditions can cause headaches, jaw pain, tooth damage, and other problems. - Improved Oral Hygiene
Crooked, misaligned, or overcrowded teeth often trap food particles and decay-causing bacteria. Even if you brush and floss every day, your chances of developing cavities are higher if your teeth aren’t properly aligned. This means you’re more likely to need cavity fillings and even root canals. - Increased Confidence
Individuals often feel more confident in their smile after undergoing orthodontic treatment. This means they’re less self conscious when smiling, laughing, meeting new people, and posing for pictures. Self-esteem increases, which can translate across all areas of a person’s life.
Why Choose Windy City Family Dental
Windy City Family Dental is your trusted family dentist in Chicago. We help patients of all ages with various dental health concerns maintain beautiful, functional smiles. We utilize advanced dental technology and techniques to provide exceptional care. For top quality orthodontic treatment that is customized to your dental health needs, visit us for a consultation.
Visit Our Invisalign Dentist in Chicago, IL
Located in Chicago’s Loop, our dental office provides cosmetic, preventive, and restorative dentistry services. If you’re interested in straightening your smile, improving your dental health, and optimizing oral function, we can help! Contact us today to book an appointment and find out if Invisalign is right for you.
