Invisalign in Germantown, TN
Invisalign® straightens your teeth without wires and brackets, using a series of clear, customized, removable appliances called aligners. It's virtually undetectable, which means hardly anyone will know that you're straightening your teeth. Of Dr. Parris's patients, roughly 10% are choosing Invisalign as their preferred straightening method. While in the past Invisalign hasn't been recommended for children, options like Invisalign Teen are great choices for some high-school-aged patients who want to straighten their teeth without the use of metal braces.
Clearly Different
Invisalign Treatment Steps
The Invisalign System combines advanced 3-D computer graphics technology with the 100-year-old science of orthodontics. Invisalign aligners are designed to move your teeth in small steps to the desired final position prescribed by your orthodontist. Each aligner is precisely calibrated and customized to fit your mouth at each stage of the treatment plan. We also use an iTero scanner to show you a simulation of what your smile will look like after treatment. Your first step is to visit our office to determine if Invisalign is right for you.
After sending precise treatment instructions, Invisalign uses advanced computer technology to translate these instructions in a sequence of finely calibrated aligners — as
few as 12 or as many as 48. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks and only taken out to eat, brush and floss. As you replace each aligner with the next, your teeth will begin to move gradually — week-by-week until the final alignment prescribed is attained. Then you'll be smiling like you never have before!
more information on Invisalign
Results with Invisalign
To ensure the best possible results, only an orthodontist who has been trained and certified by Align Technology can diagnose and treat using Invisalign. Invisalign is available to teen and adult patients. Only an orthodontist can determine if this treatment is an effective option for you.
Invisalign Aligners Care
Taking good care of your Invisalign aligners is important to avoid discoloration and bacteria. Rinse your aligner every time your remove it from your mouth, using the official Invisalign cleaner, Retainer Brite, or another cleaner specifically designed for aligners. Make sure to not brush your aligner with your regular toothpaste, as it can dull your aligner or cause bacteria to grow. A clear, antibacterial soap is a great and inexpensive way to clean your aligners. Lastly, make sure to always remove your aligner before eating or drinking (except for water).
Invisalign FAQ
How does Invisalign work?
The Invisalign aligners put gentle force on your teeth, slowly moving them into place over time. This not only corrects your teeth but also straightens them, just like normal braces. They’re less bulky and can be taken out at any time.
How old do you have to be to use Invisalign?
Initially, Invisalign was only used for adults. This is due to the fact that children’s mouths and jaws haven’t finished growing. However, some teenagers may be candidates for Invisalign thanks to Invisalign Teen.
Is Invisalign a retainer?
While Invisalign does make retainers, traditional Invisalign aligners are not retainers and should not be used as such. Retainers are designed to keep your teeth from shifting out of position, while aligners actively push your teeth into position.
How much does Invisalign cost?
Invisalign aligners cost about the same as braces, but those numbers can vary based on insurance and the number of treatments needed. Our office is happy to discuss the cost of this treatment option with you.
How long does it take to complete an Invisalign treatment?
For adults, treatment lasts between a year to 18 months. Invisalign treatment for teenagers lasts about as long as a typical stint with braces, around two to three years. Treatment length is highly dependent on the patient and their specific needs.
How long do I have to wear my aligner each day?
We get this question a lot! The upside to Invisalign aligners is that they can be removed at any time. However, to ensure the treatment is effective, patients must wear their aligners for at least 20-22 hours a day, every day in order to get the desired results.
How often do you need to change Invisalign?
Typically, you’ll be required to swap your aligners out every two weeks. The goal is to continue to put pressure on your teeth so that they don’t regress to their original position. This allows your orthodontist to check your progress as needed.
Can I eat with my Invisalign in?
One of the best parts about Invisalign aligners is that they’re removable. Simply pop them out and enjoy your favorite foods. While we recommend steering clear of candy and other foods that may harm your teeth, there are no food restrictions while wearing Invisalign.
What happens if I break my aligner?
If your aligner gets damaged, let your orthodontist know as soon as possible. We want to continue treatment and will arrange for a replacement of the damaged tray. Don’t move to the next tray in lieu of a broken aligner. Consult your orthodontist for further information on the replacement and care of your Invisalign system.
Parris Orthodontics
To see if Invisalign can help you achieve the smile you've always wanted, contact our Memphis orthodontics office to make an appointment. We will help you to get that beautiful, straight smile you have always wanted.
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