Invisalign^® Clear Aligner Therapy
IN PRAIRIE VILLAGE, KS!

Invisalign vs Braces

Choosing between Invisalign and braces? Here are some of the main benefits of Invisalign over traditional metal braces:

• Clear, Discreet Aligners
  Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign’s clear aligners blend seamlessly into patients’ smiles and don’t draw as much attention. When patients wear their aligners, they won’t feel embarrassed or uncomfortable showing off their teeth in professional settings or among peers.


• Faster Treatment Times
  On average, Invisalign patients finish treatment faster than patients with braces. However, this varies greatly depending on each patients’ unique straightening needs.


• Fewer Appointments
  Since Invisalign’s aligners don’t require any adjustments, patients don’t have to come into our office as often as they would if they had traditional braces. With braces, the wires have to be changed out, tightened, and adjusted during treatment.


• Healthier Teeth & Gums
  Invisalign’s aligners make it easy to maintain your oral hygiene regimen. Instead of struggling to brush between non-removable brackets and wires, you can simply take your aligners out to care for your teeth. On average, patients with braces are more likely to develop gingivitis or cavities because it’s harder to thoroughly clean their teeth around the metal.


• More Comfortable
  The aligners are made from a smooth, plastic material that doesn’t poke or irritate the inside of the cheeks of gums. Patients with braces are more likely to get injuries or sores from their brackets.


• No Dietary Restrictions
  With braces, patients have to abide by a strict diet regimen, including no hard foods like nuts, carrots, popcorn, candy, gum, and more. Since Invisalign’s aligners are removable, you don’t have to abide by any dietary restrictions, you can continue to eat all of your favorite foods!

How long does Invisalign take?

The average treatment time for Invisalign plans is between 12 and 18 months. Patients who have very mild orthodontic issues may only have to wear clear aligners for about six months, while more complex cases can take closer to 24 months from beginning to end. After your teeth and jaw have been assessed at your consultation, we can offer an estimate for how long your treatment should take. The best way to ensure that your treatment plan stays on track is to wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours every day and follow your treatment plan accordingly.

How does Invisalign work?

Each Invisalign aligner is designed to be worn for two weeks at a time, safely moving the teeth in small increments. Once the aligner begins applying consistent pressure to the teeth, they will begin moving to match up with the aligner. At each orthodontic appointment, we will examine your teeth to ensure that your treatment plan is on track, and we can make any adjustments required. Once your teeth have been straightened, a retainer will be created for you to wear at night to ensure that your smile stays perfectly straight!

Do Invisalign clear aligners hurt?

Invisalign begins working right away to move the teeth into their correct positions, which can cause some pain and discomfort in the first couple days of wearing aligners. There are a few things you can do to relieve the soreness caused by your new aligners, like eating ice-cold popsicles, taking over-the-counter pain medication, rinsing with a warm saltwater solution, or applying dental wax to the parts of the aligner that are causing the most discomfort. We also recommend putting in new aligners at night so the initial adjustments can begin while you sleep.