Invisible dental braces are an alternative to metal braces. These orthodontic appliances are a series of clear plastic aligners, custom-made for the patient, which are used for straightening the teeth. Invisible dental braces provide a greater degree of comfort, and are worn with greater confidence, than metal dental braces.
Invisalign, or the invisible dental brace procedure, uses a modern approach to correct malocclusion including computerized technology to customize the braces for each patient’s needs. Invisible dental braces are smooth, clear aligner trays that fit comfortably over the teeth. The aligner trays apply pressure and gradually move the teeth to the desired occlusal position as decided by the orthodontist. These clear aligner trays are fitted without brackets and arch wire to tighten and are thus fairly comfortable.
The patient is provided with a new set of aligners every 2-3 weeks and the number of aligners required is dependent on the individual patient’s condition and associated malocclusion.
How many sessions are required for invisible braces?
The invisible dental braces application is completed in two sittings.
- At the first sitting the dentist makes a detailed diagnosis and inspects the severity of individual occlusal condition. After analyzing the situation, an impression is made which is then scanned by a computer system. Tooth movements are planned with the aid of a computer and a series of aligners are fabricated. This sitting usually takes half an hour.
- The second session is planned for nearly 7 days after the first sitting. The custom-made invisible aligner trays are given to the patient in order to wear them over the teeth.
The patient needs to pay subsequent visits every 2-3 weeks to get a new set of aligner trays. The number of sessions required for completing the treatment is dependent upon the severity of the condition.
How long does the entire process take?
The invisible braces are usually worn for at least two and a half years.
What type of dentist performs the procedure?
Only a trained dentist or orthodontist who holds a certification by Invisalign will have the authority to perform the lab procedure for the fabrication of invisible aligner trays.
University Hospital