Does Invisalign Really Work Los Angeles, CA
Invisalign® is a popular alternative to traditional metal braces. Many patients favor them for their discreet, almost invisible appearance. For many patients, Invisalign can deliver results almost as quickly and as efficiently as traditional metal braces.
Invisalign is available at Vatan Dental Group in Los Angeles and the surrounding area. We can help you achieve the smile of your dreams without a mouth full of metal. Call us today at (310) 906-1300 to schedule an appointment and learn more.
Results Come With Compliance
Invisalign has continually improved its technology and transformed over 9.6 million smiles since its inception. Various updates and additions have allowed for more complicated conditions to be treated effectively. The Invisalign difference is its SmartTrack material, designed for comfort and faster treatment; SmartForce attachments and precision wings for more predictable tooth movement; and SmartStaging technology that predicts desired and planned outcomes. The iTero® Element Scanner scans the gumline to create more accurate, comfortable, and secure aligners.
During treatment, a patient must wear the aligners for roughly 22 hours a day, removing them only for eating and brushing. They will have routine checkups every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on their treatment plan, in which we examine the teeth. Invisalign treatment may not work as effectively if a patient fails to adhere to the specific instructions regarding wear time, hygiene practices, maintenance, and care.
“Invisalign has continually improved its technology and transformed over 9.6 million smiles since its inception.”
Commonality by Age Group
Invisalign is made for patients of all ages. A 2015 article found that Invisalign treatment is common in patients between 13.6 and 31.9 years old. We find that teens and adults are the most common patients seeking Invisalign treatment due to its comfort, discreetness, and shortened treatment time.
Invisalign created the first clear aligner treatment, called Invisalign First, for children with primary teeth and growing permanent teeth. Children start growing permanent teeth between 6 and 7 years old, and orthodontic treatment can help guide the teeth into proper development. Invisalign treatment is available for children, teens, and adults with conditions viable for treatment.
“We find that teens and adults are the most common patients seeking Invisalign treatment due to its comfort, discreetness, and shortened treatment time.”
Requirements for Candidacy
Although Invisalign technology has advanced to allow treatment for more patients, not everyone is a candidate. During the smile assessment, we conduct both a physical oral exam and a 3D scan that traces the entire smile. We will also discuss oral and general health history, along with any past dental treatments.
In most cases, patients with severe orthodontic conditions are not advised to go with clear aligner treatment as they may need braces to effectively treat their case. Invisalign is intended primarily for patients with minor to moderate issues, such as overcrowding, spacing, or improper bite alignment. Possible treatment alternatives will be discussed if a patient is not a good candidate for Invisalign.
“Invisalign is intended primarily for patients with minor to moderate issues, such as overcrowding, spacing, or improper bite alignment.”
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Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces
There are a few differences between Invisalign and braces. Clear aligners have the advantage of being both discrete and removable. This allows patients to continue living their lifestyle with very few restrictions and keep their oral cavity clean. However, patient compliance is crucial with Invisalign treatment as not adhering to an orthodontist's specified instructions can limit or diminish anticipated results.
Braces are extremely durable as they are made of metal and tightly connected by wire. They offer patients a bit of personality through the variety of colored wires available, often an intriguing factor for children and adolescents. An added advantage is they cannot be lost or broken, especially favorable for young patients. However, there is a list of restricted foods and beverages with braces treatment as they can easily cause enamel deterioration and gingival decay. Patients with braces must learn what to avoid and how to properly clean and maintain their oral cavity during treatment.
“Clear aligners have the advantage of being both discrete and removable.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. Is there anything I need to avoid with Invisalign?
Q. What results come with compliance?
Q. Is there commonality by age group?
Q. What are the requirements for candidacy?
Q. What is the difference invisalign vs. traditional braces?
People Also Ask
Q. What are the pros and cons of Invisalign?
Q. How can someone find the right Invisalign Dentist?
Q. What conditions can Invisalign treat?
Q. How long will my teen need to wear Invisalign?
Q. Are clear aligners a time-saving treatment?
Q. What are the aesthetic differences between braces and Invisalign?
Invisalign & Lifestyle Changes
One of the many advantages of Invisalign is that it requires minimal lifestyle changes. Patients will have to switch out their aligners every one or two weeks, and they will need to come into the office to pick up their new set of aligners every six to eight weeks. In most cases, Invisalign patients require fewer orthodontist visits than braces patients.
Still, there are some things patients should know to complete Invisalign treatment safely. They must care for them properly to avoid staining or other undesirable results. This involves rinsing the aligners nightly, brushing them gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush to keep them clean. If possible, patients should rinse them whenever they take them out. As mentioned earlier, patients should only remove aligners when necessary — such as when eating, brushing, or drinking anything other than cool water. Patients who play high-contact sports should ask Vatan Dental Group if it is safe to keep the aligners in the mouth while playing.
“One of the many advantages of Invisalign is that it requires minimal lifestyle changes.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Who is not a candidate for Invisalign treatment?
A. Invisalign is not for patients with severe dental or orthodontic conditions. It may not be suitable for patients who have difficulty with self-reliance or know they may not adhere to necessary protocol. Lastly, patients with several prior dental treatments or surgeries may not be good candidates due to weakened bone.
Q. How is candidacy determined?
A. During the initial consultation, patients are examined using a 3D scanner that takes hundreds of photos per second and creates an accurate digital image. We also conduct a physical oral exam and check for any signs of wear-and-tear or gingival decay. The Invisalign system interprets the findings and helps us determine whether the patient is a good candidate for treatment.
Q. What happens during Invisalign treatment?
A. Once a patient qualifies for Invisalign, we curate a treatment plan using the smile scan conducted during the consultation. The 3D renderings are sent to a lab that creates the custom trays for the first few weeks. The patient will have follow-up appointments every 4 to 6 weeks to check progress and are given their next sets of aligners.
Q. Will I have to wear a retainer after I complete treatment?
A. As with all orthodontic treatments, it is highly advised that patients wear a retainer to avoid relapse or shifting. Teeth tend to naturally shift back to their original placement without a device applying a specific amount of force. However, wearing a retainer even once a week for at least a year can make a big difference in long-term results.
Q. How long is the average treatment duration with Invisalign?
A. The length of treatment varies with each case. Patients may take as little as six months or as long as three years depending on the severity of their condition. It also depends largely on patient adherence to their individualized instructions and proper care and maintenance.
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Invisalign® Terminology
Learn More Today
Invisalign can help you get the smile of your dreams without a mouth full of metal. We at Vatan Dental Group can help. Call us today at (310) 906-1300 to schedule an appointment and learn more.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- Invisalign®. How Invisalign Works. 2024
- Invisalign®. Take the Smile Assessment. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
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