Invisalign (Invisible Braces)

The Problem With Traditional Braces

Say goodbye to painful, ugly wires, and say hello to all natural teeth straightening!

Especially as an adult, metal braces can be a very frustrating dental procedure. Traditional braces consist of metal and wires tightened to force your teeth into shape. As you can figure, this is quite the painful process. The metal gets in the way of many day-to-day activities such as eating and teeth brushing, and at times the metal can poke and jab the tongue and gums resulting in long-lasting discomfort.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is the perfect alternative to traditional braces. Invisalign, as the name implies, is a practically invisible pair of braces that fit over the teeth. After conducting a series of X-Rays and pictures of your teeth, your dentist will create a 3-D image of your teeth. With this very detailed image, your dentist will map out a treatment plan using Invisalign.

How Does Invisalign Work? Do They Hurt?

You will receive a new Invisalign replacement every 2 weeks from your Cosmetic Dentist in San Francisco, CA. As your teeth and jaw gradually begin to straighten and repair the replacement will fit the improved shape of your mouth. No more painful tightening of metal wires! Patients of Invisalign report that minor discomfort occurs during the first 2-3 days of using a new Invisalign tray, and then as your teeth set the pain disappears. The whole concept behind Invisalign is a very smooth and comfortable transition from crooked teeth to straight teeth.

Will They Get In The Way?

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign can be easily removed from your mouth. Before you brush, floss or eat, you’ll remove the Invisalign and then replace them after. They were designed in such a way to not get in the way with your daily activities.

How Long Do I Wear Them?

It is highly recommended you wear your new Invisalign braces 20-22 hours per day, only removing them for flossing, brushing and eating.

Standard treatment plans range from 12-24 months.

Why Not Traditional Braces?

As mentioned before, traditional braces get in the way of daily activities. Brushing and flossing require a lot of additional effort.  There are many food restrictions with metal braces. The list of foods you can’t eat while wearing braces is long and extensive, and that list alone would heavily discourage anyone considering metal braces.

Many people wearing metal braces have experienced a loss of confidence. They felt that the braces inhibited their ability to smile, and many avoided opening their mouth in public so that others wouldn’t have to see their braces. We feel this is a very major disadvantage. Our dental practice is big on confidence. We want to you love your smile!

However, there are certain uncommon cases where traditional braces would be highly recommended over Invisalign. This will be discussed by your dentist after a series of check-ups and X-Rays.

I’m Interested in Invisalign. Now What?

Call us at  415-221-4441 or contact us using our web form. We look forward hearing from you and helping you get that dream smile you’ve always wanted!