Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses clear plastic aligners instead of metal brackets and wires to move your teeth into alignment. The aligners are removable, allowing you to take them out to eat and clean your teeth. They are also almost invisible when worn, so hardly anyone will notice you are undergoing orthodontic treatment! 

Invisalign is a popular choice for working professionals and adults who want to correct their smiles discreetly. This treatment is often preferred over traditional braces by our teenage and adult patients at Homan Family Dentistry since it offers many benefits. 

How Does Invisalign Work?

The aligners are custom-made after our dentist takes a digital impression of your teeth. The dentist will map out a complete treatment plan, including how long you will need to wear the aligners each day and when you will replace them.

Each aligner will put pressure on your teeth to move them gradually into the desired positions. You must switch to a new set of aligners about once every two weeks to keep moving your teeth toward that goal. You’ll have to visit us regularly for checkups so we can check your progress and make any necessary changes to your treatment plan. 

Wearing your aligners for at least 22 hours daily is essential for the best results. That’s why you should only remove your aligners when eating, drinking anything other than water, or brushing or flossing your teeth. You will also need to clean your aligners daily to keep them fresh and clean.

Invisalign vs. Braces

While braces and Invisalign both straighten your smile, they have some distinct differences. Braces are a visible orthodontic solution that straightens your teeth with wires and brackets. On the other hand, the Invisalign system consists of clear aligner trays that can be removed before you eat or brush your teeth. Although braces are very effective at moving teeth into proper alignment, they can also cause discomfort and embarrassment due to their visibility. Invisalign offers all of the same benefits without the hassles associated with traditional braces treatment.

Our patients appreciate that Invisalign aligners are removable. This means you don’t have to drastically change your diet to avoid foods that could get stuck in your braces. You can remove your aligners and enjoy whatever you’re eating. This also means you can brush and floss normally to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Traditional braces can trap plaque on and between bracketed teeth, leading to cavities and gum disease. 

Invisalign aligners are also comfortable and don’t cause irritation or sores like traditional braces. Finally, our patients love that they can remove their aligners for special occasions or important events. 

We want our patients to have the beautiful, healthy smiles they’ve always dreamed of. To learn more about the benefits of straighter teeth with Invisalign, visit Homan Family Dentistry at 11840 NICHOLAS ST., STE. 210, Omaha, NE 68154, or call (402) 498-0400.