How Long Does Invisalign Take?

Braces have been a part of most people’s lives, especially as a kid. They were clunky and sometimes embarrassing. Throughout the years the process for braces has evolved to become almost invisible. Invisalign has been on the market since the early 2000’s and has most people throwing out their regular braces. Many ask how long does Invisalign take compared to braces, the answer is about 12 months on the average. Keep reading below to learn more about Invisalign braces.

What is Invisalign

Invisalign is a type of braces that are designed to be nearly invisible. Essentially, they are a mold, also called aligners, created to realign your teeth to the shape you want. They are custom made specifically for your teeth. You replace the aligner every two weeks to move your teeth little by little, eventually getting to the final position you choose. Invisalign is made with 3D computer imaging technology that scans your mouth and teeth. These scans are used to create perfect aligners for the entire process. You will also be able to see the finished product via the 3D computer scans. More than 70% of orthodontists in the US and Canada are certified to treat with Invisalign.

How Invisalign Works

When you get Invisalign braces, they are clear aligners that are custom-made for you. The aligners were created to be virtually invisible and fit snugly over your teeth. Each aligner shifts your teeth slightly, moving them horizontally and vertically and even rotating them when needed. When using a new aligner, there will be some discomfort. After your mouth becomes accustomed to the aligner that will go away after a few days. Your aligners are engineered to use the right amount of force in the right place at the right time. When you change to the next set of aligners (typically every week) your teeth gradually move into position, following a custom treatment plan mapped out by your doctor. Invisalign aligners are removable giving you the flexibility to eat and drink what you want during treatment by simply removing the aligners. And you can also remove the aligners to brush and floss as you normally would for fresh breath and to maintain good oral hygiene.

Braces have been around for a long time and are often a lengthy, expensive, and even somewhat painful experience. Beyond that, braces can be embarrassing to deal with for teenagers and especially for adults. Invisalign can range in price depending on age and amount of alignments needed. They are virtually invisible, so they are discreet to not be embarrassing and gradually change your teeth for less discomfort. It’s even better when you can remove them whenever you need to. Invisalign helps many people attain more aligned and better-looking teeth with less of the negatives associated with braces. After almost seventeen years of production, they have been perfecting their company and their product to become just as effective as traditional braces, yet offer better, more personal results.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a great way to restore your smile. They can either blend in with your existing teeth, or they can be implanted to give your dentures something to adhere to. Either way, getting dental implants is a simple procedure that can permanently fix your grin.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Dental implants work by totally replacing missing teeth. Some dental implants are made to form steady anchors that you can attach dentures to. This is for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth. If you’re only missing one or two, you can get dental implants that simply replace those teeth.

Dental implants work by using high grade titanium screws. Titanium is a metal that can fuse with bone. The implants are screwed into your jaw bone. Your jaw heals, fusing to the metal, creating a strong chewing surface and base. If you’re not using dentures the screw is capped with a crown. This tooth-like covering helps your dental implant blend in with the rest of your teeth. Your smile will look natural, and it will be stronger than ever. 

 How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Ideally, dental implants will last the rest of your life. Once the dental implants are fully healed, they last upwards of 25 years with ease. They’re difficult to break and easy to take care of. However, they’re not indestructible. You should still brush and floss around your implants regularly. This keeps your gums and jaw bone healthy. A weakened jaw could soften around the implant in time, potentially leading to complications. Keep brushing and flossing and your dental implants will thank you!

Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?

Unfortunately, dental implants are not for everyone. While the majority of people can get dental implants, there are several reasons that dental implants may not work for some. The most common reason dental implants won’t work is that someone is or has been a heavy smoker. Smoking reduces bone mass in the jaw. Dental implants need to fuse with your jaw bone to stay secure. If this bone is worn away, there’s nothing for it to fuse to.

Smoking isn’t the only reason someone may not be suitable for dental implants. Some people with illnesses or conditions that slow or complicate the healing process may not be suitable. People with a history of broken jaws and osteoporosis are also at a high risk for being unable to receive implants.

While dental implants aren’t for everyone, they can be a huge benefit to those who qualify. Dental implants can last the rest of your life. An investment today can still be serving you 25 years down the road. Whether you need a cosmetic crown to complete your set of pearly whites or you just want a secure and comfortable way to wear your dentures, look into dental implants. Your dentist can tell you if they’re right for you.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a common and extensive procedure that protects a damaged tooth. If your tooth is broken, cracked, or suffering from a large cavity, a crown may be the best option for you. Your dentist may also recommend a crown if you have a small to a moderately sized cavity in a portion of the tooth that’s difficult to protect with a filling.

What Does a Dental Crown Look Like

Once it’s properly installed, your dental crown will look like a natural tooth. The crown covers the entire visible portion of your tooth, all the way down to the gumline. If you get a crown made of metal as opposed to ceramic or resin, of course, the tooth will be obviously metallic. If you opt for a crown that does resemble your natural teeth, the crown will be indistinguishable from the rest of your teeth.

What are Dental Crowns Made of

As mentioned above, there are many materials that can make dental crowns. Gold and silver crowns are very common. Crowns can also be made with stainless steel. These crowns will be tooth-shaped, but obviously not blend in with the rest of your teeth. If you want a crown that looks more like your natural tooth, you can opt for a resin or ceramic crown. These can be color matched to your teeth, so you have the most natural looking smile available.

What is a Partial Crown

A partial crown, or dental onlay, is an option for people whose teeth are not damaged enough to require full crowns. When you want to restore the look of a tooth, a dental onlay can be used. It fits over a side or portion of the tooth, restoring appearance and protecting your tooth from further harm. A partial crown doesn’t require you to shape or file down your teeth. This allows you to keep more of the healthy enamel than you would otherwise be able to.

What is the Difference Between a Cap and a Crown

This is actually a trick question. A cap is the same as a crown. Cap is typically used by laymen. It accurately reflects the function of the dental crown: it “caps” the tooth, preventing further damage. The term crown often gives people the wrong impression about what the piece actually does. Cap and crown can be used interchangeably in most conversations, but you’ll find that your dentist probably sticks with a crown.

If your tooth has sustained extensive damage, a dental crown might be the solution. Crowns protect your tooth from further decay and reduce the odds of chipping or cracking. They can be made from metal, resin, or porcelain. While some crowns are obvious, most today are made to blend into your smile so naturally that even a dentist will have to take an X-ray to see which is which. If you’re thinking of changing the appearance of your tooth or gaining more confidence from a smoother smile, contact our office at (831) 449-8363. The staff at Russell Cureton, DDS, General & Cosmetic Dentistry, are here to help you get the smile you want.