Invisalign

The Clear Advantage for Straighter Teeth

Orthodontics is not just limited to children and young adults, grown-ups deserve straight teeth too! Dr. Brent Cornelius and his staff understand that traditional metal braces can be unsightly and often uncomfortable, but we have the solution!

Did you know that alternative, invisible orthodontic options are available? You can finally have the straighter, healthier smile you’ve been wanting – and it’s available right here in our office! When you come in for your consultation we will talk to you about the specific advantages this system has to offer.

What is Invisalign?

We are proud to offer Invisalign. This state-of-the-art orthodontic system uses the latest in digital technology to fabricate custom aligners that gradually straighten your teeth. These clear trays are nearly invisible when worn and can be removed, unlike traditional types of braces.

The Benefits of Invisalign Over Traditional Braces

• • Nearly invisible: Since the aligners are clear, most people won’t even notice that you’re wearing them, so your life can go on uninterrupted.
  • No food restrictions: Eat whatever you’d like.  You don’t have to avoid sticky foods like caramel or bubblegum.  You can even partake in some other favorites like popcorn, juicy steak, or soft bread!
  • Easier to clean: Invisalign trays can be removed for brushing and flossing, which makes your hygiene routine easier.  No extra time or special tools are needed to clean your teeth.

• Less painful: Metal brackets and wires can feel pointy and rough inside of your mouth.  They may even cause blisters or painful ulcers while you adjust to them. Invisalign aligners are custom fabricated and replicate your specific oral anatomy, leaving a smooth feel. But comfort doesn’t stop there; the outer material of the aligners is also gentle on your tongue, cheeks, and lips.
• Faster treatment: In general, when compared to traditional braces, Invisalign works faster at closing gaps and straightening teeth. You’ll be done with ortho before you know it!

What to Expect at The Initial Consultation

At your first visit, we will complete a full oral exam to see if you are eligible for Invisalign. If you are, we will then take a series of digital images with an intraoral scanner. This scan will show us a 3-D replica of your teeth and gums, this is more accurate and comfortable than the traditional impressions. During the initial consultation, we will also take x-rays and photographs of your teeth and smile as part of the treatment planning process.

All of the information that we gather at your initial visit goes straight to Invisalign. Together, their lab and our dental team will design an individual orthodontic plan for your bite and smile. If you would like, we can show you a simulation of what your new smile will look like before you even start treatment. We will also be able to give you an estimate of how long your Invisalign treatment will take to complete. When you are ready to proceed, your custom aligners will be ordered.

Once they have arrived at our office, we will contact you to schedule an appointment to get acquainted with your new aligners and start treatment on the same day.

Clear Aligner Technology (Invisalign/Clear Correct)

What to Expect at My Initial Placement Appointment

Invisalign works by using aligners that are smooth on the outside and rigid on the inside. The consistency, along with the use of bottoms (which take the place of metal brackets in traditional braces), is what allows your teeth to move where we want them.

At your first delivery appointment, we will need to place a few buttons on the front of a select number of teeth. No drilling or needles are required for this process; it’s a quick and easy procedure. Don’t worry – they’ll be as invisible as the aligners themselves!

After button placement, we will insert the first set of aligners. Before you leave the office, we will help you practice taking the trays in and out and give you a set of home care instructions to follow.

Wearing Your Invisalign Aligners

Always remember to brush your teeth after you eat and drink, and immediately place the aligners back in your mouth. In order to stay on track with your treatment, the trays need to be worn for a minimum of 22 hours a day.

Each aligner is shaped slightly different as you progress through the treatment. They are worn for 1-2 weeks (we’ll be sure to let you know specifically). We will give you a few sets of aligners to take home with you and you’ll come in periodically for us to check your progress and deliver your additional aligners.

What Happens When I’m Done with Invisalign?

Once your teeth are in their optimal position, we will remove the buttons that were bonded on your teeth and impress for retainers. You will also be provided with a maintenance protocol so that the teeth don’t revert back to their previous locations. You have invested the time and money to straighten your teeth, so you’ll want to make sure your new smile stays looking its best!

Retainers are used to hold your teeth in place. They look much like the Invisalign aligners and are only worn while you sleep. Since you can take them out, unlike permanent lingual wires (another form of retention), it makes cleaning your teeth much quicker and easier. No special brushes or flossers are required. Additionally, a permanent retainer may be placed on the inner front teeth to ensure they remain straight.

Get the Smile You Deserve

It’s never too late to enjoy a straighter smile!! Every day, more adults are making the decision to straighten their teeth with clear and tooth colored braces.

Dr. Cornelius and Dr. Belman are happy to answer any Invisalign questions that you may have, including whether or not you’re a candidate for this unique treatment. Call us today to schedule a no-hassle consultation. We proudly serve the residents of Keller, Roanoke, Trophy Club, Westlake, Southlake, North Richland Hills, and all surrounding communities. We look forward to meeting you and your family!