Invisible Braces Invisalign

By Michael E. King, DDS

Michael King DDS (Mira Dental Care)

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Invisible Braces Invisalign

Have you heard about the invisible braces called Invisalign (pronounced in-viz-a-line)? I know you haven't seen them, but have you heard about them? These braces, or shall I say hard tiny trays, are virtually invisible and make straightening your teeth a whole lot easier. They are the latest technology and are changing the way we straighten teeth.

What are they?

Invisalign are clear removable tiny trays that slowly move your teeth. You wear one set of trays for two weeks then switch to another to continue the moving process. The beauty of these trays is that you can remove them and eat whatever foods you want. You are not limited to the foods you eat as with the old metal braces that are cemented to your teeth. They also make cleaning your teeth a breeze since they are removable.

How do you make them?

The trays are made with an impression of your teeth. The impression is sent to California to the Invisalign lab where they scan the impression of your teeth into a computer.

The computer then generates a computer image of your teeth and then moves your teeth via computer simulation to the desired results you are looking for. You will be able to see what your teeth will look like before beginning treatment.

Once you approve the computer simulation, the computer begins to fabricate trays according to the simulated movements. The trays are then sent to the dental office to be given to you to wear.

How do I get them?

Easy enough. You set up an appointment with an approved Invisalign dentist or orthodontist. They will check and see if you are a candidate for Invisalign. To find an approved Invisalign dentist you can go to www.invisalign.com, enter your zip code, and a list of doctors in your area will be provided.