How Does Invisalign® Work?
Experience the Difference That Dr. West and Invisalign® Can Make in Your Smile
Invisalign - the Discreet Alternative to Braces in East Lansing, Grand Ledge, and DeWitt, MI
When it comes to providing efficient orthodontics in East Lansing, Grand Ledge, and DeWitt, MI, we at West Family Orthodontics are glad to go above and beyond. With our comprehensive selection of orthodontic treatments, Dr. Kristine West is an expert in giving you the smile of your dreams. We understand that all patients are different and have their own unique needs, which is why we offer a wide variety of orthodontic solutions not limited to traditional braces. One of the orthodontic treatment options that we provide is Invisalign, the clear alternative to braces.
Introducing Invisalign!
Metal braces may be the most proven and time-tested method of orthodontic treatment, but there’s now a popular alternative – Invisalign®.  Much like its name suggests, Invisalign® is like a form of invisible braces. Instead of using wires and brackets to shift teeth, Invisalign® utilizes clear, removable aligners to improve a patient’s smile. Since the aligners are also removable, you can take them out for cleaning your teeth, eating, or important occasions. Invisalign® isn’t suitable for everyone, so make sure you talk with your DeWitt, MI orthodontist, Dr. Kristine West, to determine if you’re a candidate.
Invisalign® is Discreet
At less than a millimeter thick, Invisalign® clear aligners won't interfere with your speech. They're also virtually invisible, so most people won't even know that you're wearing them.
Invisalign® is Comfortable
Invisalign® clear aligners are made of soft, flexible, medical-grade plastic, which means that they’re far more comfortable for your mouth than the metal brackets and wires of braces.
Invisalign® is Removable
Unlike braces, Invisalign® clear aligners are completely removable so brushing and flossing your teeth are a breeze. It makes cleaning your aligners super easy too.
Invisalign® is Freedom
Since there are no metal wires or brackets to worry about breaking, there are no dietary restrictions with Invisalign®. You can keep eating all of your favorite foods throughout treatment.
Understanding How Invisalign® Clear Aligners Work
Using state-of-the-art 3D computer imaging technology, Dr. West will design a personalized Invisalign treatment plan that will gradually and comfortably shift your teeth into their best possible alignment. Based on this plan, a series of custom clear aligners will be created for you. Each set is slightly different from the one before it and is designed to move your teeth incrementally as you progress through treatment. You will need to wear your aligners for a minimum of 20 hours per day, changing to a new set every week, or as directed by Dr. West. By the time you have completed your Invisalign treatment, you will have achieved a beautiful, healthy smile that you can’t wait to show off!
Caring for Your Teeth During Treatment
One of the best benefits of Invisalign is that you can just take out your aligners and clean your teeth in the same manner as you always do. You should brush your teeth after every meal or snack so that food particles and plaque don’t get trapped inside your aligners. Neglecting this important step can cause tooth decay and gum disease over time; so make sure to clean your aligners regularly by brushing them and then rinsing them with lukewarm water to ensure that there is no buildup on the aligners themselves.