Invisalign® is a clear alternative to metal braces. Instead of brackets and wires, Dr. Arruda uses 3D printing technology to transform your smile. The trays are uniquely and carefully made using SmartTrack® material and trimmed to your unique gumline. How it works: Dr. Arruda takes a scan of your smile and then maps out a plan to transform it with a progressive series of trays you switch out every 7-14 days. Our patients are typically in Invisalign treatment for 6-24 months.
Depending on the case, Dr. Arruda may adhere tiny SmartForce® attachments to certain teeth. These attachments give your aligners something to push on gently, thus moving your teeth more efficiently. The best part? They’re hardly noticeable.
The clear, computer-generated trays are worn 22-24 hours a day. We recommend you change your trays as directed by Dr. Arruda in order to ensure your teeth straighten in the fastest amount of time possible. People won’t be able to tell that you’re wearing them, and your speech will adjust within a day or two.
Our patients often say two key
benefits of Invisalign are: comfort
in social situations and invisibility―
hence, the name Invisalign.
Invisalign does require more responsibility for the patient as opposed to traditional braces; you must remember to change them every 7 to 14 days, take them out to eat and brush your teeth before putting them back in, and clean them regularly to maintain sanitary trays. Removal of your trays for an extended amount of time does delay your results, which is something to keep in mind.
A common misconception about Invisalign is that it’s only ideal for minor teeth straightening issues. However, that’s not the case. West Loop Orthodontics has successfully treated patients with crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and open bites using Invisalign.
The bottom line:
Metal braces are the most cost-effective treatment option. Although you have to modify what types of food you eat, you don’t have to worry about taking braces on and off to brush or eat like with Invisalign. Dr. Arruda sees you every 4-8 weeks to make adjustments and change your wires.
