Invisalign

Orthodontic treatment without the hardware

Conventional teeth straightening uses cemented brackets and bands connected by metal wires to apply constant pressure. As the periodontal ligament is squeezed on one side of a tooth, special cells called osteoclasts dissolve a tiny bit of bone. Simultaneously, osteoblasts build new bone mass on the opposite side, to allow the tooth to assume a straighter position.

Invisalign accomplishes the same thing, using removable plastic teeth aligners instead of hardware. Invisalign teeth aligners are precision designed by a robust computer software system, based on digital impressions of your mouth. You see, virtually – on a computer monitor, how your smile will be transformed, before committing to treatment.

Then, a series of aligners is made using advanced 3D printing technology. You wear each set for a couple of weeks before switching up to the next pair. Dr. Seguin sees you about every six weeks for brief appointments to monitor your progress.

Highland, MI patients enjoy these benefits of Invisalign

• Discreet – Aligners are transparent. Other people probably will not even notice them, and most patients quickly adapt to speaking naturally with aligners inserted.
• Comfort – Aligners are made of smooth plastic. There are no sharp parts to irritate delicate oral tissues, and no wire tightening.
• No dietary restrictions – Simply take aligners out of your mouth before eating.
• Normal hygiene – Remove aligners to brush teeth and floss as usual. The appliances are easy to clean, too.
• Efficient – Each case is unique. However, with good compliance – wearing aligners a minimum of 20 hours each day – a typical treatment plan is completed in about a year.
• Versatile – When Invisalign initially received FDA approval in 1998, it was used primarily for cosmetic straightening. However, the technology has continued to evolve. Today there are Invisalign solutions for many complex alignment issues and bite problems.