If you have a desire to straighten your teeth, a discussion with Dr. Lacy or Dr. Rich may result in the decision that Invisalign may be the best treatment. They will thoroughly discuss the process and expected results. Next, impressions will be made and photographs taken. This information will allow the dentists and the technicians at Invisalign to create a series of aligners based on Dr. Rich or Dr Lacy’s instructions for tooth movement.
A week or so later, the patient has the opportunity to view a digital “movie” of their teeth straightening, aligner by aligner. This gives the patient an opportunity to see exactly what they are buying before committing to treatment. Finally, the series of custom aligners will be delivered to the dental office. Each aligner is worn for approximately 1 to 2 weeks. They will build on the progress obtained from the previous until the desired results are achieved.
How Does Invisalign Work?Invisalign uses a series of clear, plastic aligners to gently move teeth into their ideal alignment over the course of about twelve months of treatment. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign can shift teeth into their ideal alignment while being virtually invisible and completely removable. Each set of aligners represents one step closer to the ideal smile alignment. You’ll wear the alignment trays for about one to two weeks at a time, then switch to the next set of aligners in the series. Before you know it, your misaligned teeth and bite will be perfectly in place.
Invisalign® Alternative: Smart Moves Clear AlignersLike Invisalign, Smart Moves is a clear alignment tray orthodontic solution. The difference between the two systems is that Smart Moves focuses on smaller movements of the front teeth for a lesser price. Rather than sets in a series, the Smart Moves system is based on setups. Each setup has two sets of alignment trays. The first is a softer material that gently begins moving your teeth. After wearing the first set of aligners for about two weeks, you’ll wear a harder set of trays for two weeks. Most patients are able to complete minor tooth movements with just three smile setups.
