A family dentist in Toledo Ohio can provide a variety of dental treatments for the entire family, including Invisalign®. It may surprise you since the treatment is typically done by an orthodontist. The fact remains, some general or family dentists have specialized training and expertise in providing Invisalign braces. You’ll be happy with your perfectly-aligned smile just the same.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment for straightening teeth that are mildly crooked or misaligned. It is an alternative to traditional metal braces and involves a less complex procedure. A set of clear, virtually invisible plastic aligners is worn over your teeth to gradually shift them into the desired position. Clear aligners are also more aesthetically pleasing and might be a better option for self-conscious teenagers or adults.
What Can Invisalign Fix?
You or your child may experience oral health problems caused by malocclusions or imperfectly positioned teeth and jaws. In addition, misalignment causes bite problems and may lead to issues such as headaches and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Clear aligners are a readily available option to correct the following problems:
- Overbite: Your upper front teeth close in front of your lower teeth
- Underbite: Your lower teeth extend past your upper front teeth
- Crossbite: Your upper and lower jaws do not line up when you close your mouth
- Open bite: Your top and bottom teeth don’t meet leaving an open space at the front
- Crowded teeth: Shortage of space in your mouth causes teeth to overlap each other
- Gaps: Excess spaces between your teeth
Removable aligners are also used as a stage 1 orthodontic treatment for children with a mix of baby and permanent teeth.
How Does Invisalign Work?
A series of trays of clear aligners are custom-made to suit your teeth and need to be worn in sequence. Just place the tray over your teeth, and you’re ready to go. You must wear your invisible aligners for 22 hours every day to have the maximum effect. You will need to pick up a new tray from your dentist every two weeks until treatment ends.
The aligners in each tray are made slightly straighter than the previous tray to achieve the desired results. You will need to wear them for about 12 to 18 months as directed by your dentist. It could take several years to straighten your smile if you choose metal braces or ceramic braces.
Benefits of Invisalign by a Family Dentist Toledo OH
The benefits of Invisalign are clear and hardly undeniable, although clear aligners cost more compared to other braces options. They are comfortable, easy to wear, removable, and it’s even difficult for anyone to tell you’re wearing them. You can eat whatever you want. Just remove the aligners, eat, brush, floss, rinse and replace the tray. Voilà!
Removable aligners make it easy for you to care for your teeth and gum on a daily basis. You can also straighten your teeth in less time than with traditional braces and without the hassle of frequent dental checkups to adjust wires or brackets. At the end of treatment, you’ll have beautifully straight teeth and a confident smile. You’ll be able to bite and chew better once your teeth are in proper alignment and enjoy better overall oral health.
Invisalign at Light Touch Dental Care: Our Trusted Family Dentistry
Light Touch Dental Care provides a range of oral hygiene and cosmetic treatments for children of all ages, teens, and adults. Dr. Natalie Nechvatal is our certified family dentist Toledo Ohio trusts to provide Invisalign braces, general dentistry, and smiles restoration treatments in one place. We will do an extensive oral exam to decide if clear invisible aligners are right for you or your family member. Call (419) 866-4271 to schedule a consultation today.