Using Invisalign to reposition the teeth in the smile and avoid traditional braces

Patients who visit Stone Ridge Family Dentistry in Aldie and South Riding, Virginia, often want to learn about treatments designed to improve their smiles. This includes orthodontic treatment. Many patients shy away from talking to Drs. Mallory Grossman and Kelly Lincoln about realigning the smile for fear of needing metal bracket-and-wire braces. With continued advances in both dentistry and orthodontics, we now have other options to choose from. This includes Invisalign orthodontics. Invisalign is a special invisible aligner treatment that can provide the same results as traditional braces without covering the smile and using uncomfortable, unsightly metal appliances. Continue reading to learn more about Invisalign treatment and whether or not you are an appropriate candidate.

How does Invisalign work to realign the teeth in the smile?

Many patients who have heard of Invisalign and other teeth aligners may have a lot of questions about how they allow one to achieve proper alignment without using metal brackets and wires. Invisible aligners work by gently pushing the teeth into their desired positions using customized trays that fit snugly over the teeth. Each set of Invisalign aligners is custom-made to gradually move the teeth in small increments with each new tray. The aligners are worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next one in the series. This allows the aligners to slowly shift the teeth until they reach their desired alignment.

What can I expect from Invisalign treatment?

Invisalign treatment is usually completed within a year to 18 months, depending on how complicated a patient’s tooth alignment issue may be. The length of treatment depends on several factors, including how much movement needs to take place and how closely one follows instructions. Brushing and flossing routines must also be followed carefully during Invisalign treatment to keep problems such as decay and disease from impeding the final treatment results.

Am I a good candidate for Invisalign?

If you are considering teeth straightening with invisible aligners like Invisalign, call our Stone Ridge Family Dentistry team in Aldie and South Riding, VA. Our office is located at 24585 Stone Carver Drive, Suite #225, and can be reached by calling (703) 327-0190.