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Who is suitable for Invisalign® treatment in Vancouver BC? Orthodontists
can use Invisalign® to treat a wide variety of patients with
fully-erupted molars. Both adults and adolescents may be suitable. It
works for a wide range of people whose teeth are too crowded or have
spaces between them, as well as for those whose teeth may have shifted
after having worn braces in their youth. Invisalign can also be combined
with other dental treatments, such as traditional braces or clear
cosmetic braces. An orthodontic consultation is the most
ideal way to determine what the best orthodontic options are available
for you.
How does Invisalign work?
 Invisalign uses 3-D computer imaging technology to plan your complete
treatment plan from the initial position to the desired final positions
of your teeth. A series of custom-made "aligners" are produced. Each
aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for approximately two to
three weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final
position is achieved. The computer simulation can also be used to
estimate how long your treatment will take. Invisalign aligners are
nearly invisible and look similar to clear tooth-whitening trays, but
are custom-made for a better fit to move teeth. They are like contact
lenses for teeth.
Invisalign aligners move teeth through the appropriate placement of
controlled force on the teeth. The principal difference to braces 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.
If a tooth is very round in shape or requires complex movement, then an
almost invisible bump, known as an attachment, is temporarily bonded
onto the specific tooth. This procedure causes absolutely no pain or
discomfort and helps the aligner to grip the tooth and move it into
position. In some complex cases elastics and other adjunctive methods
may also be considered.
How long does Invisalign take to complete treatment?
Typically the treatment duration is similar to braces. An average time
frame is around twelve months but could take less than six months. More
complex cases could take up to two years. The degree of changes required
to obtain the smile you are seeking will determine the number of
aligners required, and the number of aligners determines the duration of
treatment. During treatment we will schedule regular appointments -
usually about once every three to six weeks. This way you can be sure
the Invisalign treatment is progressing as planned.
Is Invisalign treatment painful?
Most people experience temporary, minor discomfort for a few days at the
beginning of each new stage of treatment. This is normal and is
typically described as a feeling of pressure. It is a sign that Invisalign is working, sequentially moving your teeth toward their final
destination. This discomfort typically goes away a couple of days after
you insert the new aligner in the series.
Will Invisalign affect my speech?
Like all orthodontic treatments, aligners may temporarily affect the
speech of some people, and you may have a slight lisp for a day or two.
However, as your tongue gets used to having aligners in your mouth, any
lisp or minor speech impediment caused by the aligners disappears.
Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, drinking, brushing,
and flossing (about twenty-two hours of wear per day).
Will Invisalign affect the types of food I can eat?
Unlike traditional wires & brackets, you can eat whatever you desire
while in treatment because you remove your aligners to eat and drink.
Thus, there is no need to restrict your consumption of any of your
favorite foods. However, a diet that is high in sugars and involves
frequent snacks should be avoided. Also, it is important that you brush
your teeth after each meal and prior to re-inserting your aligners to
maintain proper hygiene.
Will my teeth remain straight after Invisalign treatment is
completed?
 In order to prevent your teeth moving after treatment is completed you
should wear a retainer, in exactly the same way as those patients who
have had braces. Every patient is different and the most suitable
retainer will be discussed with you.
Why should I choose your office for my Invisalign treatment?
Specific training and accreditation is needed before dentists or
orthodontists can begin treating patients with Invisalign. At our specialty offices, we are experienced in
treating a wide variety of cases with Invisalign, with traditional
braces, and with a combination of them both. Dr. Kanani is a
Premier Provider of Invisalign, placing him in the top 5% of Invisalign
experienced doctors in North America. Schedule a
consultation to determine what would be most suitable for your
particular situation and circumstances. |
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