How Does Invisalign Work?

For a lot of patients, having crooked or crowded teeth affects both their smile’s health and its look. If you’re looking to straighten things out, you might need orthodontic help. But some folks steer clear of it because they think metal braces are their only choice. Not the case! Dr. David Alpan, one of the top rated orthodontist in Los Angeles, provides patients with a comfy and good-looking alternative to the usual metal braces.

The Invisalign Process

The journey to achieving straight teeth starts with a consultation. Dr. Alpan will carefully examine your smile to determine if Invisalign is the right fit for you. Following this, he will take impressions, photographs, and x-rays of your teeth. These materials will be used to create a detailed 3D image, guiding Dr. Alpan in crafting a personalized treatment plan and enabling the Invisalign lab to produce your aligners.

Once your aligners, made from clear, BPA-free plastic, are ready, Dr. Alpan will instruct you on how frequently to wear them. Typically, patients wear their aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day, consistently. Every two weeks, you’ll transition to a new set of aligners. Approximately every six weeks, you’ll visit Dr. Alpan for a progress check-up. For adults, this process typically spans about a year, while teenagers may need to wear the aligners for up to 18 months.

The Advantages of Invisalign Over Metal Braces

Many choose Invisalign over traditional metal braces for several reasons. Firstly, the aligners are nearly invisible, unlike the noticeable metal brackets and wires of traditional braces. With Invisalign, you can take out the aligners before meals, so you can eat without worrying about food getting stuck in your braces. The fact that they’re removable also simplifies oral hygiene. Lastly, those who wear Invisalign often mention experiencing less discomfort compared to traditional metal braces.

Schedule an Appointment with Your Los Angeles Orthodontist

Curious about how Invisalign works? Dr. Alpan is here to help! Feel free to reach out with any questions or worries you might have. To schedule a consultation at one of orthodontist office throughout the Los Angeles area, simply give us a call at 213-513-7559 today.