Invisalign®: The Simple, Discreet Way to Straighten Your Smile

Invisalign® is an orthodontic innovation that uses transparent, custom-fitted mouthpieces to gradually straighten teeth. Instead of traditional metal braces, patients wear nearly invisible plastic aligners to attain a beautiful, symmetrical smile. This makes the process more comfortable and inconspicuous than wearing braces. If you are interested in learning more about how Invisalign® can correct your bite, align your teeth, and improve the appearance of your smile, contact us today. During your consultation with Dr. Byron Nordhus, you will have the opportunity to learn more about how we can transform your smile using Invisalign® at our Wichita, KS-area dental practice.

How Does Invisalign® Work?

The first step in Invisalign® treatment is a comprehensive exam. Dr. Nordhus will take x-rays and use the iTero® digital scanner to create a 3-D digital impression of your teeth. This tool allows Dr. Nordhus to create a precise impression without the need for traditional impression techniques, which can be messy and uncomfortable. These impressions are used to create your custom treatment plan. You will also be provided with a visual representation of how your smile will look once treatment is complete.

The next step in the process involves creating custom aligners made of clear, comfortable, BPA-free plastic. You will be required to wear your aligners for 20-22 hours per day, removing them only while eating, flossing, or brushing your teeth. Approximately every two weeks, you will begin wearing the next set of aligners in the series to gradually progress toward your final outcome. Treatment time differs from patient to patient, depending on their needs. The duration of treatment is typically comparable to that of traditional braces, usually spanning about a year or longer.

What Are the Benefits of Invisalign®?

One of the greatest benefits of Invisalign® treatment is that it is an inconspicuous alternative to traditional metal braces. Many patients avoid treatment because they are apprehensive about wearing braces for a long period of time. Invisalign® offers patients a discreet, comfortable option that allows for easy cleaning. While patients wearing braces must avoid sticky, tough, or crunchy foods, Invisalign® patients have no dietary restrictions. Additionally, braces can make certain activities, such as playing sports or a musical instrument, more difficult or even dangerous. 

Am I a Candidate for Invisalign®?

Invisalign® is effective for treating a variety of alignment issues:

• Gapped teeth
• Underbite
• Overbite
• Crowded teeth
• Open bite, or teeth that do not make contact with opposing teeth
• Crossbite, which occurs when the upper and lower jaws do not meet properly

It is important to treat gapped teeth and crowded teeth in order to make cleaning your teeth easier, minimizing the risk of periodontal issues. Bite correction is also important because this reduces tooth wear, as well as risks and symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.

We also offer Invisalign® Express, which is a five-stage treatment option for patients with minor orthodontic concerns, such as mild crowding or spacing issues. Invisalign® Express is specifically designed to achieve an expedited cosmetic enhancement. Patients receive a series of five sets of aligners, and wear each set for two weeks.  

Invisalign® Teen is designed to fit the lifestyle and development of teens. Invisalign® Teen is similar to Invisalign® for adults, but offers special features. These include a wear indicator that alerts the patient when it is time to change their aligner, special tabs to accommodate the growth of certain teeth, and replacement aligners in case a teen misplaces his or her aligner.

How Can I Learn More?

If you would like to learn more about Invisalign® and how it can correct the alignment of your smile, please contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Nordhus. During your consultation, we will explain how Invisalign® treatment can be custom tailored to help you meet your goals, and fit comfortably into your lifestyle.