Sacramento Invisalign Technology

Invisalign Introduction:

Roseville cosmetic dentistry Invisalign is the product of Align Technology Inc. The company was founded in 1997 by Zia Chishti and Kelsey Wirth. Invisalign (www.invisalign.com), utilizes 3D scanning hardware, automatic surfacing software, 3D animation programs, and rapid manufacturing systems --powered in part by Geomagic technology --to produce customized, removable, clear plastic appliances called aligners.

What is invisalign?

The Invisalign process uses a series of clear, plastic molds to gradually move the teeth. They're kept in place 24-hours a day -- except for when brushing, flossing, and eating -- and changed out every two to three weeks as the teeth straighten. The shape of the molds -- and hence the final position of the straightened teeth -- is determined by creating a three-dimensional movie of each patient's mouth. It simulates, from beginning to end, the stages the teeth will go through as they're adjusted.

Are there any disadvantages to using Invisalign?

Invisalign does not do a great job on vertical problems, where the teeth are at different heights, teeth are lower or higher than others. It doesn't not do a good job on teeth that are severely rotated, correcting bite issues and would also not be the best option for fixing severely overcrowded teeth. Invisalign can cost an average of $500 more than a one-year treatment with traditional braces.

Who should use invisalign?

This product is ideal for adults who want to straighten their teeth without the visibility of metal braces.There is a growing market of adult clients who are interested in looking the best they can and who have the personal finances to achieve their desire.

How effective is invisalign?

This appliance is totally dependent on whether the patient chooses to wear it. Yet to be determined is whether Invisalign can also move teeth in complex cases -- such as when a pulled tooth has created a large space or if there is excessive crowding.

How Invisalign Works

Impressions and x-rays of the patient's teeth are made, a treatment plan is prescribed, and the impressions are sent to the Align Technology lab.
A physical model is cast from the patient's impression. That model is then digitized using a 3D scanner. Next 3D animations of the patient's personal treatment plan are made.
From these images, Align Technology manufactures a unique set of clear, plastic aligners that are custom-fitted to the patient's teeth and mouth.
The patient wears each stage of aligners for approximately two weeks before switching to the next in the series.

Week by week, the patient's teeth are straightened, millimeter by millimeter. Total treatment time is similar to traditional braces and usually ranges from six to 24 months depending on the complexity of the case. A single patient's treatment series may contain up to 60 pairs of upper and lower aligners.

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Bryan G. Judd DDS - Providing services in cosmetic dentistry, smile makeovers and invisalign to the areas of Roseville and Sacramento, California.

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