Because it is nearly invisible and provides astounding results, Invisalign may seem like magic - but the science behind these teeth aligners is really quite sophisticated.
Dentists use scientific terms to describe tooth alignment. Occlusion refers to the alignment of teeth and your bite, which is the way your upper teeth and lower teeth fit together when you bite down. Ideally, your upper teeth should fit ever so slightly over your lower teeth; the points of your molars (back teeth) should fit the grooves of opposite molars. With this configuration, your upper teeth keep you from biting down on your lips and cheeks while your lower teeth protect your tongue.
Malocclusion means your teeth are not aligned properly. Passed down through families, malocclusion is often hereditary.
Other causes of crooked teeth include:
- Childhood habits, such as thumb sucking, pacifier use after the age of 3, tongue thrusting, and prolonged use of a bottle
- Lost teeth, extra teeth, abnormally shaped teeth, and impacted teeth
- Poorly-fitting dental crowns, fillings, retainers, dental appliances, or braces
- Traumatic injury to the mouth or jaw
The Science of Teeth Straightening
All teeth straightening treatments, such as Invisalign, work in the same way - by applying consistent pressure that gradually moves teeth towards the desired location in your jaw.
Advanced Teeth-Straightening Technology of Invisalign
Invisalign is a highly developed technology that uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic trays that fit snugly over your teeth. Depending on the severity of your malocclusion, you may need to wear 10 to 30 or more trays in all.
Invisalign starts with a consultation in which our dentist helps you decide if Invisalign is right for you. Next, our dentist uses an iTero Element® scanner to create a fast, precise digital scan of your teeth and to map out your customized treatment plan. Your dentist will send this computer model to an Invisalign laboratory, which makes your aligner trays.
When your first Invisalign tray is available, you’ll come back into our office to ensure a precise fit. We’ll also teach you how to get the most out of your teeth straightening treatment and review the procedures for caring for your Invisalign trays.
You’ll receive a new tray about once every two weeks. Each tray shifts your teeth up to .33mm - while this might not seem like much, it is a precision movement that brings your teeth to the optimal position for an appealing smile.
The bioscience of bone remodeling
Invisalign trays straighten your teeth by applying pressure to the visible part of your tooth, known as the crown. The real magic - and science - of teeth straightening happens below the surface of your gum.
Sturdy bone tissue holds your teeth in place in your jaw. Tissue, known as the periodontal membrane or periodontal ligament (PDL), encases each tooth.
When Invisalign puts pressure on your tooth, the pressure stretches the PDL on one side of the tooth and compresses it on the other side to loosen the tooth. The jawbone ahead of the tooth breaks down, while the bone behind the tooth brows stronger to support the tooth in its new position.
Invisalign cost
Advanced technology often costs more, but Invisalign is surprisingly affordable. Insurance often covers the cost of teeth straightening.
The cost of Invisalign can vary widely, depending on the type and severity of your malocclusion and how well you adhere to the treatment schedule. Straightening a slightly crooked smile on just the top set of teeth costs less than fixing seriously misaligned teeth on both jaws, for example. You’ll spend less on your teeth straightening treatment if you wear your Invisalign as prescribed.
No matter what type of malocclusion you want to correct, most dentists would charge you anywhere from $3900 to $7000. You can expect a lower Invisalign cost at Preston Dental Loft - because of the number of patients we treat, we offer an all-inclusive deal for $3897 or as low as $99/month. There are no hidden fees, we never cut corners, and our Invisalign consultation is free.
Where can I find Invisalign near me?
Preston Dental Loft is your dentist for Invisalign in Cary, NC. We have the experience and technology to harness the science of Invisalign to straighten your teeth. Our dentists also provide several other smile services, including teeth cleaning, tooth-colored fillings, laser periodontal treatment, oral cancer screening, treatment for sleep apnea, and more. Many of these services involve the use of advanced dental technology, such as:
- iTero® 3D Digital Impressions
- VELscope® Oral Cancer Screening
- LANAP® Laser SurgeryVELscope®
- Intraoral Camera
- Painless 3D Digital X-rays
For more information on the science of Invisalign teen and adult patients can rely on, please contact Preston Dental Loft by calling (919)467-6111 or sending a text to (855)503-7095.
