If you’ve been dreaming of a straighter smile without the hassle of metal braces, Invisalign teeth straightening might be the ideal solution. At Norwood Dentistry, we help teens and adults across Norwood achieve confident, healthy smiles using clear aligners—an advanced orthodontic solution that’s virtually invisible, highly effective, and personalized just for you.
In this blog, we’ll explore how clear aligners work, their benefits, and what to expect from Invisalign treatment.
What Are Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners are custom-made, removable trays made of smooth, BPA-free plastic. Unlike traditional braces, they don’t involve wires or brackets. Instead, they apply gentle, consistent pressure to your teeth to move them into alignment over time.
Each set of aligners is worn for about 1–2 weeks before switching to the next. The process continues until your teeth reach their ideal position—making it an increasingly popular alternative for teens and adults.
How Do Clear Aligners Move Teeth?
Invisalign and similar clear aligner systems use advanced 3D imaging technology to map out your smile transformation. Your treatment plan includes a series of aligners, each engineered to shift teeth incrementally (typically around 0.25 mm per tray).
These aligners apply targeted force to specific teeth and may include small, tooth-colored attachments that act as “grips” to enhance movement.
Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces
Here's how Invisalign stacks up against metal braces:
|
Feature |
Invisalign |
Metal Braces |
|
Visibility |
Virtually invisible |
Noticeable |
|
Comfort |
Smooth plastic, no wires |
Brackets & wires may irritate |
|
Removability |
Removable for eating/hygiene |
Fixed in place |
|
Diet Restrictions |
None |
Must avoid hard/sticky foods |
|
Oral Hygiene |
Easy to brush/floss |
Harder to clean around brackets |
|
Appointments |
Fewer, shorter |
More frequent adjustments |
For a deeper comparison, check out our blog: Clear Aligners vs. Traditional Braces: The Best Choice for Adults and Teens.
According to the Canadian Association of Orthodontists, clear aligner therapy is a trusted treatment for many orthodontic issues and should be planned and monitored by a trained dental professional. This ensures safety, effectiveness, and long-term results.
Best Age to Start Clear Aligners
Clear aligners work well for both teenagers and adults. Teens appreciate the discreet look, while adults love the convenience and flexibility. While there's no strict "best age," candidates should have all their adult teeth and be committed to wearing the aligners as directed—about 20–22 hours a day.
Do Clear Aligners Hurt?
Most patients experience mild discomfort or pressure when starting a new set of aligners. This sensation is temporary and is a good sign—they’re working! Unlike metal braces, there are no sharp edges or wires to poke your mouth.
How Long Does Invisalign Take?
Treatment time varies by case. Simple adjustments may take as little as 6 months, while more complex issues may require 12–24 months. On average, most patients at Norwood Dentistry complete their Invisalign treatment in 10–14 months.
Can Invisalign Fix Gaps and Other Issues?
Yes! Invisalign is highly effective at treating:
- Gaps between teeth
- Crowded or crooked teeth
- Overbites, underbites, crossbites
- General misalignment
What’s the Invisalign Timeline Like?
Here’s what to expect:
- Consultation: We evaluate your smile and take digital scans.
- Custom Plan: Your 3D smile simulation is created, showing your expected results.
- Wear Aligners: You’ll wear each aligner for 1–2 weeks, removing them only to eat and brush.
- Checkups: Every 6–8 weeks, we’ll check progress and provide your next set.
- Retainers: After your final aligner, you’ll wear a custom retainer to maintain results.
For a patient-focused comparison, explore: Clear Aligners for Adults: How They Compare to Invisalign and Braces
Benefits of Invisalign
- Discreet Appearance: Aligners are practically invisible.
- Comfort: No metal brackets or wire pokes.
- No Food Restrictions: Eat what you love!
- Easier Hygiene: Remove aligners to brush and floss.
- Predictable Results: We show your progress from start to finish.
A Trusted Local Provider in Norwood
At Norwood Dentistry, we’ve helped countless patients transform their smiles with Invisalign. Our team provides customized Invisalign treatment plans, routine checkups, and compassionate support every step of the way.
In addition to Invisalign, we offer a full range of services to maintain oral health, such as: