If you're looking for an unobtrusive way to straighten your teeth but don't want the embarrassment of a metal mouth, invisible braces, also known as 'Invisalign' braces, may be the solution. The braces are made from a special type of plastic that gradually moves your teeth into the proper positioning. With these new invisible braces, no one but you and your cosmetic dentist will know you're straightening your teeth.



What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a new, improved method for straightening teeth. Unlike traditional metal braces, it is made from a special thermoplastic material that's clear. No one knows that you're straightening your teeth because the system is completely invisible.

The system is similar to tooth whitening trays. Each aligner is meant to be worn for two weeks and then swapped out for a different one. The aligner trays slowly move the teeth into the desired position a little at a time. The movement is gradual and the number of aligners in a full treatment can depend on the desired outcome. A typical full treatment is anywhere from 20-30 trays with full results in six months to a year.

The aligner trays are free of the material Bisphenol-A. BPA has been in the news lately as a possible cancer-causing agent that's been banned from baby bottles in Canada. With Invisalign, you won't have to worry about BPA.

Who Benefits From Invisalign?

Invisalign is for anyone who's interested in straightening his or her teeth. The system is different than traditional braces so it's a perfect solution for anyone who's uncomfortable with metal braces. It's a perfect solution to professional adults whose teeth have reverted after traditional metal braces or who never received braces as a child. With the invisible aligner trays, no one needs to know you're straightening your teeth.

The system can fix overcrowded or widely spaced teeth, a crossbite, overbite or underbite. The results aren't just cosmetic - if some of these issues aren't corrected, dental decay and periodontal disease can occur.

Aside from the invisibility, one of the biggest benefits the system has is that it can be easily removed. The aligner trays are meant to be taken out during meals and while brushing and flossing. With the system, it's easy to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

How To Choose A Cosmetic Dentist

Once you've decided to look into Invisalign, the next step is choosing a Chicago cosmetic dentist. A cosmetic dentist that's experienced in invisible braces is a must. Dentists must go through special training sessions before they are able to offer Invisalign services to their patients.

After finding a cosmetic dentist, it's important to check and see if they're able to accept any dental insurance you have. It's up to the individual dental plans to cover orthodontic work, so you'll need to check with your plan's provider. If your plan doesn't cover orthodontics, many dental offices offer reasonable payment plans. If you have a flexible spending account through work, you can usually use it to cover orthodontia.

It's also a good idea to find a dental office close to either your home or work and that offers convenient hours. Though the Invisalign system doesn't require a lot of time in the dentist's chair, you will need to visit the cosmetic dentist every six weeks or so. By finding an office that's conveniently located and offers extended or weekend hours, you'll save yourself a lot of travel time.

If your family dentist is unable to offer invisible braces, they should be able to refer you to a dentist who can. After seeing the difference the aligner trays can make, you'll wonder why you didn't choose to wear them sooner.