Invisalign clear aligners and braces

Invisalign clear aligners

Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners, each worn for about a week or two, to move teeth gradually into position. They are almost invisible, come out for eating and brushing, and suit many adults and teens with mild to moderate crowding, spacing or bite problems. Success depends on wearing them 20 to 22 hours a day; if that is not realistic for you, braces may give a better result.

Braces

Metal or clear (ceramic) braces are fixed to the teeth and adjusted at regular visits. They handle a wider range of problems than aligners, including more severe crowding and bite corrections, and they do not rely on remembering to wear anything.

What treatment involves

1. A consultation, photographs and X-rays to assess your teeth, bite and jaw
2. A treatment plan with the expected duration and cost; for Invisalign, a digital preview of the planned result
3. Regular visits every six to ten weeks to check progress
4. Retainers after treatment: teeth will drift back without them, so this stage is not optional

Most treatments take between six and twenty-four months. Some complex cases are better suited to an orthodontist, and we will refer you if that is in your interest.

Is it too late for me?

No. Healthy teeth and gums can be moved at any age, and a large share of aligner patients are adults. Gum disease must be under control first.