Invisalign Groesbeck, TX

Do you want to straighten your teeth but don’t want braces? Try orthodontic treatment with Invisalign. Invisalign is a modern cosmetic dental treatment that uses clear aligners instead of metal wires and brackets to straighten teeth. The clear Invisalign aligners shift teeth into straighter positions over time, often without the need for many in-office adjustments. Invisalign treatment in our Groesbeck, TX office can help many patients get straighter, better-aligned smiles. 

Invisalign Treatment in Groesbeck, TX

We recommend Invisalign for patients who have all of their permanent teeth and have mild to moderate orthodontic problems. Invisalign can treat tooth gaps, crooked teeth, bite misalignment, overbites, underbites, cross-bites, and other orthodontic issues. 

To begin Invisalign treatment, we will first take dental x-rays to determine the patient’s candidacy for treatment and plan for the aligners. We will take impressions of the teeth to send to a lab, where technicians create Invisalign aligners out of durable, clear plastic. Once the aligners are complete, we will fit you with your first pair.

During Invisalign treatment, you will replace your aligners for a new pair every two weeks. Because each pair of aligners differs, they will gradually straighten your smile over time. You may need to occasionally visit our office so we can keep track of your progress. 

For the best results, wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours daily. You should also remove your aligners whenever you eat or drink anything other than water. When cleaning your aligners, use a mouthguard soak or liquid soap and water. 

The Benefits of Invisalign

There are numerous benefits to choosing Invisalign over traditional braces. One of the main advantages is the aesthetic appeal of Invisalign. The clear aligners are much less noticeable than metal braces, allowing you to straighten your teeth discreetly without anyone knowing. This is particularly appealing to adults who may be self-conscious about wearing braces.

Another benefit of Invisalign is the comfort it offers. The aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth and are made of smooth plastic, making them more comfortable to wear than traditional braces. No sharp wires or brackets can poke or irritate your mouth, making Invisalign a more comfortable option for orthodontic treatment.

Invisalign is also removable, allowing you to remove the aligners when you eat, drink, or brush your teeth. This means you can continue to enjoy all your favorite foods without any dietary restrictions. Traditional braces often come with a list of foods to avoid, such as popcorn, gum, or hard candies, to prevent damage to the braces. With Invisalign, you can simply remove the aligners and eat whatever you want.

Furthermore, because the aligners are removable, it is easier to maintain good oral hygiene with Invisalign. You can brush and floss your teeth as you normally would without having to navigate around wires and brackets like with traditional braces. This helps to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath, which can be a common issue with braces.

Invisalign also offers fewer visits to the orthodontist compared to traditional braces. With traditional braces, you typically need to visit the orthodontist every 4-6 weeks for adjustments. With Invisalign, you only need to visit the dentist every 6-8 weeks to check your progress and get new aligners. This means less time spent in the dentist’s chair and more time enjoying life.

One of the best benefits of Invisalign is the shorter treatment time compared to traditional braces. While the length of treatment varies depending on the individual, most people can complete their Invisalign treatment in about 12-18 months, compared to 2-3 years with traditional braces. This means you can achieve a straighter smile in less time with Invisalign.

Invisalign is also safe for all ages, from teenagers to adults. The clear aligners are made of medical-grade plastic that is BPA-free and FDA-approved, ensuring they are safe to wear in your mouth. Invisalign aligners are also gentle on your teeth and gums, reducing the risk of damage to your oral health during treatment.

Caring for Invisalign

To care for Invisalign aligners, follow a few simple steps. First, remove the aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. This will prevent food particles and bacteria from getting trapped between the aligners and the teeth, which can lead to decay and cavities.

After removing the aligners, it is important to clean them thoroughly with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Avoid using hot water to clean the aligners, as it can cause them to warp and lose their shape. Instead, use lukewarm water and gentle brushing motions to remove any debris or plaque that may have accumulated on them.

It is also important to soak the aligners in a cleaning solution or retainer cleaner at least once daily to kill bacteria and prevent odor. Many different types of cleaning solutions are available, so be sure to choose one that is specifically designed for Invisalign aligners. Soaking the aligners for the recommended amount of time will help keep them clear and bacteria-free.

In addition to cleaning the aligners, brushing and flossing your teeth after every meal is important before putting the aligners back in. This will help prevent plaque and bacteria from building up on the teeth and getting trapped between the aligners, which can lead to dental issues.

Another important aspect of caring for Invisalign aligners is avoiding using toothpaste containing abrasive ingredients or whitening agents. These can scratch the surface of the aligners and cause them to become discolored or damaged. Instead, use a non-abrasive toothpaste and brush gently to avoid damaging the aligners.

It is also important to avoid drinking colored beverages such as coffee, tea, or red wine while wearing Invisalign aligners, as these can stain the aligners and make them more noticeable. If you consume these beverages, brush your teeth before putting the aligners back in to prevent staining.

To ensure that Invisalign aligners work effectively, they should be worn for at least 22 hours per day. This means they should only be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. If the aligners are not worn as directed, the treatment process may be delayed, and results may not be as effective.

Invisalign FAQs

Invisalign is a subtle way to straighten a crooked smile. Read the answers to these frequently asked questions to learn more.

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

The length of your Invisalign treatment varies based on the complexity of your case and your adherence to wearing the aligners as instructed. Most treatments take between 6 and 18 months, but minor adjustments can be completed in as little as 3-6 months. During your consultation, your dentist or orthodontist will provide an estimated timeline based on your unique needs.

Can I eat and drink with Invisalign aligners?

You should remove your Invisalign aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water. This prevents food particles or liquids from becoming trapped, which can stain the aligners and increase the risk of tooth decay. After meals, rinse your mouth and aligners before reinserting them to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent odors.

Are Invisalign aligners noticeable?

Invisalign aligners are made from clear, medical-grade plastic, making them virtually invisible when worn. Most people won’t notice you’re wearing them unless they look closely, making Invisalign a discreet option for adults and teens who are self-conscious about traditional braces.

Can Invisalign treatment fix severe orthodontic issues?

Invisalign is highly versatile but may not be suitable for severe orthodontic issues, such as extreme overcrowding or jaw misalignment. In such cases, traditional braces or other treatments may be more effective. We will evaluate your teeth during the consultation to determine whether Invisalign is the right option.

How often do I need to wear Invisalign aligners?

For Invisalign to be effective, you must wear the aligners for 20-22 hours daily. They should only be removed for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing. Failing to wear the aligners as directed can prolong treatment time and affect the results.

How do I maintain my results after Invisalign?

After completing Invisalign treatment, you must wear a retainer to maintain your results. Retainers prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions, a process known as relapse. Your dentist will instruct you on how often to wear the retainer, which may initially be full-time, and then transition to nighttime wear.