Invisalign® Clear Aligners
East Dundee, IL
Invisalign provided by Dr. Gregory M. Neu, DDS in East Dundee, IL at Neu Family Dental
Crooked or misaligned teeth not only look bad, but they can also significant consequences for your oral health. If you feel self-conscious and concerned about your smile, we can help. At Neu Family Dental, we offer some orthodontic treatments to get your smile back on track, such as Invisalign.
What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign involves the use of a series of clear, plastic aligner trays to slowly straighten out your teeth. The trays typically need to be worn for 22-24 hours a day for six to 18 months, depending on your individual needs. Invisalign is best when used for minor to moderate orthodontic issues. The more complex orthodontic issue may require the use of traditional metal braces. During a consultation appointment, Dr. Neu will determine whether or not Invisalign is right for you.
Once we decide you are a suitable candidate, we will develop an appropriate treatment plan. This usually involves the use of dental technology such as photographs, X-rays, and 3D CBCT scans. This information will be collected and sent to the Invisalign headquarters. There, they will use it to fabricate a series of aligner trays.
You will be asked to wear each tray for two weeks at a time. You may experience some minor pain or discomfort at first. This is normal. You should adjust to your new tray within the first few days. We will also ask you to schedule an appointment every four to six weeks so we can monitor your progress.
How do Braces Compare to Invisalign®?
| • | Braces use metal brackets: Most people are familiar with traditional braces, which use metal brackets and a thin wire to move teeth to their proper position. The metal brackets are glued directly to the front surface of your teeth. Braces use wires & bands: The wire is attached to the brackets with a series of elastic bands. Some of our younger patients enjoy choosing the colors of their bands. |
| • | Braces make it hard to eat: Traditional braces may give you difficulties when eating hard, sticky foods. They also make brushing and flossing your teeth much more difficult. Some patients may have tooth discoloration due to the brackets and poor hygiene practices. Braces can be uncomfortable: As treatment progresses, the wire needs to be tightened. Many patients find that traditional braces can be quite uncomfortable. |
Despite the drawbacks to traditional braces, the results can sometimes be worth it. Traditional braces are the most effective way to fix more complex orthodontic issues such as a crossbite or an open bite.
What are the Benefits of Invisalign®?
| • | Less difficulty eating food: The trays are also removable, meaning there are no issues with food getting caught or difficulty eating. It can be a huge inconvenience to eat food with metal braces. |
| • | More discreet due to clear trays: The aligner system is very discrete. It is a clear, plastic aligner, and most people won't even know you are wearing it. Many people find this beneficial, from high school teenagers to professional adults. |
| • | Less discomfort from lack of wires: There is also no discomfort caused by metal wires, because Invisalign doesn't use wires to help straighten teeth. The lack of brackets, wires, and metal is a huge benefit of Invisalign. |
| • | Less regular orthodontic appointments: Invisalign also reduces the number of appointments you need to schedule. Patients with traditional braces typically need to schedule an appointment once a month. |
| • | Less emergency orthodontic appointments: If a bracket falls off or the wire breaks, you would also need to schedule an appointment. With Invisalign, if you lose or break an aligner tray, you would simply move on to the next one in your series. |
Invisalign is most ideal for adult patients, especially those who do not want to experience the stigma associated with traditional braces. In recent years, teenagers have also benefited from Invisalign. Invisalign Teen comes with a blue indicator to ensure the aligners are being worn close to full time.
Ready to Schedule Your Invisalign® Appointment?
If you would like to learn more about Invisalign call (847) 230-9143, and schedule an appointment today!