How Does Invisalign Work to Straighten Teeth?

How Does Invisalign Work to Straighten Teeth? from Robert F. Perler DDS, MS, FAGD in New Rochelle, NYInvisalign® is gaining a large following because of its comfort and efficiency. More and more patients want to know how this system works. Knowing how this type of teeth straightening works can help motivate you to set your next appointment. Here are the details about how Invisalign straightens teeth.

The introduction of Invisalign

Research shows that this dental straightening system was created by the five founders of Align Technology in 1997. These individuals met up in Redwood City, California. They wanted to have the technology to straighten teeth. About two years after the meeting, Invisalign debuted. This dental straightening system has been used since 1999. Research reveals that it has helped at least 6.4 million patients around the world.

Dental structure basics

Understanding how Invisalign works needs familiarization with some structural basics. The gums have a periodontal ligament that attaches the teeth to the jawbone. This ligament contains collagen. These collagen fibers serve as an anchor that fixes the teeth to the bone underneath.

These collagen fibers on one side of the jawbone deposit cementum into the bone’s living cells. The collagen fibers on the other side penetrate the jawbone. This created a sling-like support around the teeth. The teeth stay stable while reacting to the bite forces.

A natural process in shifting teeth

Invisalign is efficient because it supports and uses natural dental shifting. It takes the compression and tension forces in the mouth. Then, the system maneuvers these forces to change the position of each tooth in a gradual way. New aligners every two weeks during the treatment period can keep the movement consistent. In most patients, each new set can shift the teeth about 0.22 millimeters within the first few days. This does not include the jawbone’s movement.

The jawbone must move as well when Invisalign repositions the teeth. This is necessary because the jawbone will keep the teeth in place after the treatment. Clinical studies show that it may take about two weeks for the periodontal ligament’s fibers to stay in their new place. That is why the patient must wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day for two weeks before replacing them.

Maintaining the new position of each tooth is important. The teeth will shift back to their crooked places if the patient does not wear the Invisalign aligners for the necessary number of hours every day. This can prolong the treatment period. The patient must remove the aligners while performing dental and aligner cleaning. It is also necessary to do so during eating or drinking.

How Invisalign moves teeth

The patient will receive transparent aligners during an Invisalign treatment. These aligners will not be very visible to the untrained eye. They are custom-fit as well. This allows the patient to achieve straighter teeth without feeling awkward. The transparency encourages the wearer to keep the aligners in the mouth. This is key to the effectiveness of the Invisalign system.

Traditional braces will need 18 months to two years to move the patient’s teeth into place. The patient does not have the power to shorten the treatment time. The monthly visits to the dentist will be the time to tighten the elastics and the wires. Adjusting the braces once a month will push the target teeth into place.

With Invisalign, the patient is in control of the teeth straightening process. Each aligner will have a slightly different shape. The goal is to move the target teeth into their correct positions over time. Studies show that wearing the aligners for a maximum of 22 hours every day can speed up the treatment period. This is an advantage over traditional braces that have a fixed treatment period.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Invisalign in New Rochelle, NY

Invisalign can improve your appearance and dental health

This dental straightening system uses clear aligners. Most patients prefer Invisalign to traditional braces because of its efficiency and comfort. Understanding the process of using clear aligners in teeth straightening can help you follow your dentist’s instructions better. Working with your dentist can speed up your treatment period while maintaining your oral health.

Request an appointment or call Robert F. Perler DDS, MS, FAGD at 914-636-8082 for an appointment in our New Rochelle office.

Recent Posts

5 Tips For Invisalign Maintenance

Invisalign® has improved orthodontic treatment by offering a discreet and effective way to straighten teeth. Unlike traditional braces with visible wires and brackets, Invisalign uses nearly invisible clear aligners. However, achieving the best results with Invisalign requires proper maintenance and care.This review discusses how patients can maintain the quality and longevity of their Invisalign aligners…

A Guide To Successful Invisalign® Treatment

Many looking to straighten their smile are drawn to Invisalign® clear aligners because they see them as a discrete alternative to braces. While they are a convenient and effective alternative, how well they work depends on the user. Getting the results you want from Invisalign requires following some important directions. Here is an overview of…

A Comprehensive Guide To Getting Invisalign

If you have ever considered straightening your teeth, Invisalign® may be the solution you are looking for. This treatment offers a discreet, convenient, and effective way to achieve a beautifully aligned smile. The following guide will walk you through the process of getting Invisalign, from your initial consultation to post-treatment care.The journey towards a straighter…

Recent Posts

How Dental Crowns Can Restore A Tooth&#    ;s Function And Appearance

How Dental Crowns Can Restore A Tooth's Function And Appearance

Dental crowns, or tooth caps, are a common dental restoration for fixing broken, cracked, or decaying teeth. The goal of this dental restoration is to improve the size, shape, strength, and aesthetics of the tooth. Your teeth and the severity of the issue will determine whether the dentist suggests a dental crown for you. In…

Tips For Invisalign Maintenance

5 Tips For Invisalign Maintenance

Invisalign® has improved orthodontic treatment by offering a discreet and effective way to straighten teeth. Unlike traditional braces with visible wires and brackets, Invisalign uses nearly invisible clear aligners. However, achieving the best results with Invisalign requires proper maintenance and care.This review discusses how patients can maintain the quality and longevity of their Invisalign aligners…

One Convenient location-Implants, Root Canals, Extractions, Dental Anxiety, Hygiene.