Introducing Invisalign® — The Straightest Way to a Great Smile
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is the invisible way to straighten teeth without braces. Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth, without metal or wires.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign uses 3-D computer imaging technology to depict the complete treatment plan from the initial position to the final desired position from which a series of custom-made "aligners" are produced. Each "aligner" moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.
What are the primary benefits of Invisalign?
- Invisalign is nearly invisible. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.
- Invisalign is removable. You can eat and drink what you want during treatment. You can also brush and floss normally to maintain good oral hygiene.
- Invisalign is comfortable. There are no metal brackets or wires to cause mouth irritation, and no metal or wires means you spend less time in the doctor's chair getting adjustments.
- Invisalign allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan before you start—so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.
What are aligners made of?
Aligners are made of clear, strong medical grade plastic that is virtually invisible when worn.
What do aligners look like?
Aligners are nearly invisible and look similar to clear tooth-whitening trays, but are custom-made for a better fit to move teeth. Some orthodontists and dentists have referred to them as "contact lenses for teeth."
Is this a new way to straighten teeth?
For years, orthodontists and dentists have used removable appliances for limited treatment. Today, with the application of computer technology and custom manufacturing, Invisalign treats a broader range of cases with greater precision.
How old is the company?
Align Technology, Inc., the company that manufactures Invisalign, was founded in 1997. Since then, Align has manufactured over 10,000,000 aligners and 250,000 patients have been in treatment.
How old is this technology?
In 1945, Dr. H.D. Kesling envisioned that one day modern technology would enable the use of a series of tooth positioners to produce the kinds of movements required for comprehensive orthodontic treatment. Technology has made this vision a reality. Using advanced computer technology, Align generates Invisalign®, a series of customized appliances, called "aligners." Each aligner is worn sequentially by the patient to produce extensive tooth movements in both upper and lower arches.
How many patients are being treated with Invisalign?
Worldwide, almost 250,000 patients have been treated with Invisalign. The number grows daily.
Do doctors need special training in order to use Invisalign?
While Invisalign can be used with virtually any treatment philosophy, specific training is needed. All orthodontists and dentists interested in treating patients with Invisalign must attend training before cases will be accepted from their office. Close to 30,000 orthodontists and dentists worldwide are certified to use Invisalign.
How does Invisalign effectively move teeth?
Like brackets and archwires, Invisalign aligners move teeth through the appropriate placement of controlled force on the teeth. The principal difference is that Invisalign not only controls forces, but also controls the timing of the force application. At each stage, only certain teeth are allowed to move, and these movements are determined by the orthodontic treatment plan for that particular stage. This results in an efficient force delivery system.
Has the FDA cleared Invisalign?
Yes, the FDA has reviewed our application and in August 1998 determined that Invisalign is exempt from 510(k) pre-market notification.
Is Invisalign for Me?
Invisalign treats the vast majority of common problems for adults and teens.
Whether your smile needs minor improvements or something more extreme, Invisalign can help. Invisalign is successful at treating crowding or excess spacing of teeth. It can also be used to treat more complex cases such as overbites, underbites, and even crossbites. In fact, an experienced Invisalign-certified doctor can use Invisalign for all or part of almost any treatment plan.
Invisalign fits your lifestyle – not changes it.
Because Invisalign uses comfortable plastic aligners to move teeth, you can continue enjoying your active lifestyle even during treatment. There are no wires to irritate your lips or cheeks – and, you can still play sports and be active without worrying about injuring your mouth. And since the aligners are removable, you can enjoy that special event!
Invisalign is clearly the best choice!
A professional appearance is important especially when you are meeting with clients or speaking in public. Because Invisalign is nearly invisible, most people won't know you are straightening your teeth unless you tell them. And, after completing your treatment, you'll also enjoy the added assurance of being able to express yourself with confidence – without being embarrassed or insecure about your teeth.
Source: www.Invisalign.com