Shirley, NY, dentist offers invisalign

If you have been considering starting orthodontic care, Invisalign may be a great option for you. This method uses clear trays to gradually adjust your teeth to the correct position. The process has a similar timeframe to braces but can be completed without irritating brackets and wires, so you can feel like your best self. Today, your Shirley, NY, orthodontic team talks about the many benefits that this treatment method offers.

Invisalign Can Help Teens And Adults

It is generally recommended that orthodontic care begins as early as seven years old for many patients. At this age, the majority of their primary teeth make way for the adult ones. This is a great time to address problems with jaw development and prepare your child for braces. If you were not able to have treatment at a younger age, though, this does not mean you have to live with a misaligned smile forever. You can begin treatment at any age. Many teenage or adult patients may want to straighten their teeth but don’t want braces to make them look younger or unprofessional. Invisalign is a virtually invisible way to correct your smile.

A Treatment That Matches Your Needs

Invisalign uses clear trays to gradually shift your teeth into position. Like traditional methods, this option will take around one to two years depending on your needs. The difference is that your smile will not be disrupted with metal brackets and the trays are removable. When you come in for your consultation, your dentist will take an impression of your smile to create the series of trays for Invisalign. These will be crafted to snuggly fit to your teeth and move them. You will wear them for the majority of the day and change aligners as instructed by your dentist. You will continue visiting your orthodontist regularly to ensure that the process is moving correctly. This option may be preferable for teenagers and adults because it is not detectable to others.

Orthodontic Options For Kids

Invisalign is typically reserved for adult patients because you will be responsible for your trays and the process is slightly different than braces. For younger patients, traditional braces are recommended in most cases. Your child’s first orthodontic visit should happen around the age of seven. The team can examine their smile and may be able to estimate how long the alignment process will take. If necessary, phase one treatments like expanders and retainers may be used to guide the growth of their jaw. Braces may be worn for around one to two years depending on the severity of their misalignment.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Are you interested in starting the orthodontic process? Call our team at Shirley Orthodontics and Pediatrics in Shirley, NY at 631.399.1600.