Invisalign is a cosmetic dental treatment using clear aligners to straighten teeth gradually. We recommend clear Invisalign aligners for teens and adults with mild to moderate orthodontic problems. Invisalign is a wireless orthodontic treatment that can treat crowding, crooked teeth, and gaps between teeth. Invisalign aligners are discreet, convenient, and do not require dietary restrictions. Adult patients can enjoy the benefits of straightening their smiles without the embarrassment of visible metal wires and brackets.
Invisalign in Burke, VA
Dr. Mia is a Burke Invisalign provider for teen and adult patients. Before treatment, we take dental x-rays of teeth to see which orthodontic problems we can treat with Invisalign. We can also plan out the patient’s treatment by taking scans of the smile using iTero technology.
These scans create a three-dimensional teeth model and help us determine how the teeth shift during treatment. We send these scans and impressions to a lab, where technicians create the Invisalign aligners. Each pair of aligners is different as they shift the teeth into a straighter position. Patients will switch out every pair of aligners every two weeks, though Propel can make this process quicker.
Because each patient is unique, each treatment plan will be as well. The treatment time depends on the use of Propel and your specific orthodontic issues. On average, treatment can take anywhere from six to eighteen months. At the beginning of your treatment, we’ll start with a personalized treatment plan that will give you an idea of what to expect for your timeline. As long as you’re diligent about treatment, that should be an accurate expectation for when you’ll be done.
What is Propel?
Propel is a technique that patients can use with Invisalign to minimize treatment time. Propel allows patients to change aligners faster to reduce the amount of time needed to achieve the desired tooth positions. It uses Micro-osteoperforation, which means making small perforations in the gum tissue.
When performed as an in-office treatment, we numb the gums with a local anesthetic so patients do not feel any pain. The body increases blood flow to these areas to accelerate tooth movement. Propel activates the body’s healing process and bone remodeling on a cellular level. With Propel, we can more accurately predict tooth movement in the Invisalign aligners.
We also offer the Vpro-5 device by Propel that patients use at home during Invisalign treatment. A convenient handheld device, the Vpro-5 is used daily according to the personalized instructions that Dr. Mia will provide.
The Benefits of Choosing Invisalign
Invisalign is usually the top choice for patients looking for a straighter smile. One of the main reasons is how discreet it is. Invisalign aligners are clear and virtually invisible on your teeth. People usually can’t even tell that they’re on your teeth unless they look specifically for them. This is a big factor, especially for adults, as they get self-conscious about their appearance. They don’t want to be seen with braces.
Unlike other orthodontic options, Invisalign aligners are removable, too. You don’t have to change your diet or worry about cleaning around brackets and wires. You take them out to eat meals and perform your usual oral healthcare routine. Patients get much more freedom with Invisalign than they have with traditional braces.
Particularly if you’re using Propel, treatment with Invisalign takes a shorter amount of time than it does with metal braces. On average, braces can take around two years to straighten your teeth completely. The average time for Invisalign is around 12-18 months, and even shorter if you have the assistance of Propel.
Lastly, Invisalign treatment is more comfortable than metal braces. The brackets and wires can pinch the soft tissues and cause sores by rubbing against them. Invisalign aligners are created based on impressions that we take of your smile. They’re completely custom-made. They fit snugly and perfectly to your teeth, and they’re made of a smooth plastic. They’re smooth and delicate against the soft tissue, so you don’t have any issues.
Invisalign FAQs
Learn more about Invisalign with answers to these commonly asked questions:
How does Invisalign compare to metal braces?
Invisalign is a more discreet treatment because its aligners are clear. Additionally, patients can remove their Invisalign aligners to eat and brush their teeth. Patients cannot remove their metal braces and often have dietary restrictions to prevent appliance damage. Metal braces can be uncomfortable for some patients needing new brackets or wires. The metal can poke and irritate the gum tissue. Although it will take patients several hours or a day to get accustomed to each new aligner, the Invisalign material does not damage or hurt the teeth or gum tissue.
How long is Invisalign treatment?
The average Invisalign treatment time is 12 to 18 months. Propel can cut that time to 10 to 12 months in many cases. Patients who wear Invisalign for 22 hours daily and care for their aligners will stay on track with their treatment.
Am I a candidate for Invisalign?
We do not recommend regular Invisalign treatment for young children because they lack permanent teeth. Additionally, Invisalign does not benefit patients with more moderate to severe orthodontic problems. Metal braces are better suited for patients with underbites, overbites, crossbites, and other orthodontic problems.
Straighten Your Smile Today
Are you interested in Invisalign treatment? Schedule a dental consultation with Dr. Mia online. You can also call us at (571) 789-1265. Please let us know if you have any questions about Invisalign or Propel; we will be happy to help.