A misaligned bite, also called malocclusion, can present several problems. Teeth that are not properly aligned can lead to uneven bite tension, excessive tooth wear, and even neuromuscular issues such as TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder). In addition, crooked teeth can detract from the appearance of your smile.

Although treating misaligned teeth is important for both health and aesthetic reasons, most adults are reluctant to have traditional braces placed. Luckily, there is an alternative that is just as effective but much more convenient. We are pleased to offer Invisalign, the most popular adult orthodontic option available.

If you are interested in correcting your crooked teeth, call Divine Smiles today at (781) 396-8558 to schedule an appointment. LVI-trained cosmetic dentist Dr. Ryan Clancy will be happy to examine your teeth and let you know if you are a good candidate.

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A Discreet and Convenient Solution

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a popular alternative to traditional braces for older teens and adults. Instead of highly visible metal brackets and wires that can trap food and stain the teeth, Invisalign treatment consists of a series of transparent plastic trays that slowly straighten the teeth. These transparent trays are relatively comfortable and are practically invisible to others.

You won’t need to feel self-conscious about needing braces as an adult, as hardly anyone will even be able to tell you’re wearing Invisalign trays. The trays are custom-designed to slowly move your teeth into place over the course of several months. Each patient will be different, but in general, you can expect treatment to last for around 6 to 12 months. This is a shorter time frame than most traditional braces take, making it a convenient option for busy adults.

The Ideal Solution

What Can Invisalign Correct?

With Invisalign Woburn patients experiencing moderate to severe malocclusion can find an ideal solution, including:

Overbite
Underbite
Crossbite

Overjet
Gaps
Crowding

An in-person evaluation will be needed to see if you will benefit from treatment. If your malocclusion is extremely severe or complex, you may need traditional braces. On the other hand, if your teeth are only mildly crooked, you may want to consider porcelain veneers instead. Dr. Clancy has years of experience treating patients who want a straighter smile and will be able to tell you if your particular issues would benefit from Invisalign treatment.

Hygiene, Comfort, and Convenience

Benefits of Invisalign

At our practice in Woburn Invisalign trays offer a number of advantages over traditional braces, including:

No interference with dental hygiene and teeth cleaning
No interference with eating
No damage or irritation of sensitive oral tissue
Virtually invisible
Shorter treatment period

Since Invisalign trays are removable, they are more hygienic and do not require dietary restrictions. Simply take them off to eat, then put them back on. We recommend brushing your teeth before putting the trays back on, though, to prevent food particles from becoming trapped in the trays.

Removing the trays for brushing and flossing is also much easier than trying to clean your teeth thoroughly while navigating around braces. One of the major problems with traditional braces is the tendency for food to become trapped in the brackets, leading to staining and even possibly decay. With Invisalign, it is much easier to maintain good oral hygiene.

Ideal Candidates

Are You A Candidate for Invisalign?

In addition to having moderate to severe malocclusion, the ideal Invisalign patient:

Is in good overall health
Does not have untreated gum disease or cavities
Has fully developed teeth

Does not smoke
Has good oral hygiene habits
Is committed to keeping the aligner trays in place for at least 23 hours per day

If you have gum disease or cavities, these will need to be treated before you can embark on Invisalign treatment. In addition, if you are a smoker, we highly recommend that you quit or drastically cut down the number of cigarettes you smoke before using a clear braces aligner.

Smoking can lead to discoloration of the trays, and if any tobacco gets caught in the trays, it’s bad news for your teeth. Taking the trays off to smoke multiple times a day is not recommended. Plus, smoking is a leading cause of oral cancer, which can lead to much worse problems than simply crooked teeth.

Experience and Expertise

Invisalign Preferred Provider

We are proud to be able to say that Dr. Clancy is an Invisalign Preferred Provider. This distinction is bestowed on dentists who not only have completed Invisalign’s advanced training course, but also perform a significant amount of Invisalign treatments throughout the year.

Dr. Clancy has performed many successful Invisalign treatments and has the experience necessary to create custom treatment plans that lead to beautiful outcomes. He is also able to tell if you are not a good Invisalign candidate, and will let you know if he thinks a different treatment would benefit you more.

Dr. Clancy has been straightening patients’ teeth for over 20 years and is well aware of both the importance of being a good candidate for the treatment and how to prevent issues such as sleep apnea and TMJ. These conditions can arise from improper Invisalign use when a dentist does not take the time to carefully consider the entire jaw when creating a treatment plan. Dr. Clancy will only perform Invisalign if he thinks that you will benefit from it with no side effects.

Results

With Invisalign, patients can expect noticeable improvements in their smiles. The aligners are crafted to address a range of dental issues, including crowding, spacing, and certain bite problems. The results are gradual but effective, often achieving the desired alignment within 12 to 18 months. Each patient’s timeline may vary based on the complexity of their case and adherence to the treatment plan.

Recovery

Invisalign aligners are removable, which means there is no recovery time required. Patients can maintain their regular oral hygiene routine and enjoy their favorite foods without restriction. For optimal results, it is essential to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day. Some patients might experience slight discomfort or pressure when switching to a new set of aligners, but this is generally temporary and indicates that the treatment is working.

Invisalign Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Invisalign take?

Invisalign treatment typically takes between 12 to 18 months. However, the duration can vary depending on the complexity of the case and how diligently the patient wears the aligners.

Does insurance cover Invisalign?

Many dental insurance plans cover Invisalign similarly to traditional braces. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider to understand the specifics of your coverage.

Can Invisalign fix an overbite?

Yes, Invisalign can effectively correct mild to moderate overbites. During your consultation, our team will assess your bite and determine if Invisalign is suitable for your specific needs.

Is Invisalign better than braces?

The choice between Invisalign and traditional braces depends on individual preferences and the complexity of the orthodontic issues. Invisalign offers a discreet and comfortable option, especially for adults and teens who prefer to avoid the appearance of metal braces.

Can I eat and drink while wearing Invisalign aligners?

No, it is recommended that you remove your Invisalign aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. Eating with the aligners in place can damage them and lead to staining. After eating, brush your teeth before reinserting the aligners to maintain proper hygiene and avoid discoloration.

How often do I need to visit the dentist during Invisalign treatment?

Regular check-ups are essential to monitor the progress of your Invisalign treatment. Typically, you will need to visit your dentist every 6 to 8 weeks. These appointments allow your dentist to ensure that the aligners are fitting correctly and to provide you with the next set of aligners.

Your Ideal Smile Begins Here

Schedule Your Consultation With Premier Woburn Dentist Dr. Ryan Clancy

Dr. Ryan Clancy and every member of our team are here to help guide you to your healthiest, most confident smile. Take the first step by scheduling a full assessment of your concerns, and begin designing your ideal smile and personalized treatment plan.

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