Invisible aligners, such as Invisalign®, are revolutionary orthodontic appliances that discreetly align your teeth. Our patients love clear aligners because the durable trays provide freedom, ease, and state-of-the-art design. People won’t even notice you’re getting treatment!
At Hess Orthodontics, providing you with the best orthodontic care in West Coastal & Central Florida is our priority and passion! Schedule a complimentary consultation to learn how we can help give you a healthy smile that will last a lifetime!
Many of our patients ask, “How do clear aligners work?” Let’s look at how invisible aligners straighten your teeth and how long treatment may take.
What are invisible aligners?
Invisible aligners provide a cutting-edge alternative to orthodontic braces. Aligner trays are made with thin, clear plastic and help move your teeth into the desired position by applying gentle, consistent pressure.
Invisible aligners are removable, so you can eat what you want without worrying about food particles sticking to your braces. With that said, it is critical that you brush, floss, and use a fluoride rinse to keep your teeth healthy during treatment.
It is also important to properly clean and care for your aligners to ensure your treatment stays on schedule.
How do invisible aligners straighten teeth?
Compared to traditional braces, invisible aligners provide a light, comfortable, customized treatment option that is great for helping adults, teens, and children. But how do clear aligners work?
Invisible aligners move your teeth into position by applying steady, gentle pressure throughout your treatment. Although you can remove your aligners, you should wear them for 20-22 hours per day for the most effective treatment. You will receive a new set of aligner trays every couple of weeks that further guide your teeth into position.
Your aligner trays are made just for your teeth. During your complimentary consultation, your orthodontist will take a scan of your smile and create a treatment plan based on your needs.
Learn why more adults are receiving orthodontic treatment and if you can get Invisalign with your wisdom teeth.
How long does treatment take?
Every patient has a unique treatment plan, so there is no standard time that it takes for clear aligners to work. When we examine your teeth, we will better understand how long you may need to wear the aligners. Some patients achieve results in a few months, while others may take 6-24 months. Your treatment will be most efficient if you comply with your orthodontist’s instructions and wear your aligners for 20-22 hours per day.
Our team has helped many people in West Coastal & Central Florida get the most out of their invisible aligners. We will support you every step of the way, from your initial consultation to the day you reveal your new smile to the world!
Learn how to choose an orthodontist.
How do invisible aligners differ from other orthodontics?
Invisible aligners differ from other orthodontic treatments in many ways.
Braces:
- Use brackets, archwires, and elastic bands to move the teeth into position.
- Not removable.
- Require regular check-in visits to allow the orthodontist to adjust the wires and elastics.
- Cannot be misplaced.
- Often preferred for complex cases.
Invisible aligners:
- Use customized aligner trays to guide the teeth into position.
- Removable.
- Virtually invisible.
- Can be lost or broken.
- May not be effective for complex cases.
- May cost more than other treatments.
We want you to have the information you need to make a decision that is best for you. For more information, check out our Invisalign page. Learn the cost differences between Invisalign and braces and what to consider when choosing an Invisalign provider.
Am I a candidate for clear aligners?
Your journey to a healthy, beautiful smile starts with scheduling a complimentary consultation.
During the consultation, we will introduce ourselves, give you an office tour, examine your teeth, and discuss your treatment options.
Clear aligners are not the ideal treatment option for everyone. Aligners can effectively treat mild to moderate teeth crowding or spacing conditions. Some cases may best be more effectively addressed with other methods.
Schedule your complimentary consultation today! We can’t wait to meet you and help you achieve the radiant smile you deserve!