Do you cover your mouth when you laugh? Do you try to avoid appearing in photos? For many people, uneven teeth can be an embarrassing ordeal. While many people desire a more esthetically pleasing smile, but fear wearing metal braces will hurt their professional appearance. Fortunately, we offer a clear and comfortable alternative to metal orthodontics. Your Lafayette LA dentist, Dr. Michael J. Young, offers practically invisible smile correction with Invisalign clear braces.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign Clear Braces
Question: How does Invisalign work?
Answer: Typically, orthodontics requires the use of metal wires and brackets to correct misalignment. Invisalign, however, uses clear plastic aligners instead. Patients wear the aligners for between 20 and 22 hours each day. Approximately every two weeks they will upgrade to a new set as their teeth are gradually and gently repositioned.
Question: Will my clear braces be comfortable?
Answer: Yes. People who wear metal braces often report gum and cheek irritation. Since the Invisalign aligners are custom-made from plastic, patients experience a reduction in overall discomfort.
Question: Will I need to alter my diet when using Invisalign?
Answer: No. Since the aligners can be removed before meals, you don’t need to avoid hard or sticky foods. Removable aligners also improve oral hygiene, allowing you to thoroughly brush and floss with ease. This also reduces the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and teeth stains.
Question: How long will treatment take?
Answer: On average, total treatment time for adults takes about a year. Teen patients may need up to 18 months to correct alignment issues. The exact time will depend on the severity of your misalignment.
Question: How often will I need to see my Lafayette LA dentist?
Answer: With metal braces, patients require frequent visits and adjustments. When wearing the Invisalign aligners, you will only need to see your Lafayette LA dentist about once every six weeks. This saves our patients both time and money.
About Dr. Michael:
Michael J. Young, DDS offers patients in Lafayette, LA and surrounding communities a comprehensive approach to dentistry. Improve the health and beauty of your smile by scheduling a consultation today. Call (337) 237-6453.