At Fleur De Lis Dentistry, Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth without using metal braces. Instead, it uses a series of clear plastic aligners custom-made to fit over your teeth. These clear aligners are removable and can be removed to eat, drink, brush, or floss. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks and replaced with the next set in the series. Over time, the aligners gradually move your teeth into the desired position.

Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces

Appearance

One of the most significant differences between traditional braces and Invisalign is their appearance. While both methods will straighten your teeth, only Invisalign offers a clear alternative to traditional metal braces. The clear aligner trays are virtually invisible when worn, making them a popular choice for adult patients who want to improve their smile without wearing noticeable brackets and wires.

Comfort

Another difference between these treatment options is the level of comfort they provide to patients. Because traditional braces use brackets and wires to move teeth into position, they can irritate the soft tissues of the mouth. This discomfort can be excruciating during the first few days of treatment as your mouth adjusts to having foreign objects in your mouth. With Invisalign in Lake Charles, LA, the smooth plastic trays fit comfortably over your teeth and do not irritate.

Convenience

When it comes to convenience, Invisalign is a clear winner. Unlike traditional braces, which must be adjusted every few weeks, Invisalign can be removed anytime. This means you can eat and drink whatever you want without worrying about damaging your treatment. Additionally, you can remove your aligners for special occasions such as weddings, graduations, or job interviews.

The Procedure of Invisalign

The Invisalign procedure begins with a comprehensive consultation where a dentist evaluates the patient's oral health, takes X-rays, and creates digital impressions of the teeth. Using advanced 3D computer imaging technology, a personalized treatment plan is developed, mapping out the step-by-step movement of the teeth. This plan serves as a guide for creating a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners.

Once the Invisalign aligners are ready, the patient wears the first set. Each aligner is typically worn for about two weeks, exerting gentle pressure to shift the teeth into the desired positions gradually. Patients then progress through the series of aligners, with each subsequent set accommodating the changing alignment of their teeth. Regular check-ups with the dentist in Lake Charles, LA, are scheduled to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments. Invisalign's critical appeal lies in its discreet appearance, comfort, and ability to remove the aligners for eating, brushing, and flossing, providing a convenient and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional braces.

Visit Fleur De Lis Dentistry at 2020 Country Club Rd Ste 130, Lake Charles, LA 70605, or call (337) 502-8855 to learn more about Invisalign and how it can help you achieve a straighter smile. We would happily answer any of your questions and help you decide if this treatment is proper.