Invisalign®

Orthodontic treatment with Invisalign® discreetly and effectively addresses alignment problems like crooked teeth, crowding, and bite abnormalities. At her self-titled practice in Houston, Texas, experienced general dentist Heather M. Wilmore, DDS, regularly prescribes Invisalign treatment to teens and adults. The treatment can transform your smile and improve your oral health. Call the office today to schedule an Invisalign consultation or book your appointment online. 

How is Invisalign® treatment different from metal braces?

Metal braces and Invisalign both correct alignment problems and bite abnormalities, but they do it in different ways.

Metal braces

Metal braces use brackets, archwires, and rubber bands to place pressure on your teeth and periodontal ligament (a piece of tissue that connects your teeth to your jaw). Metal braces are bonded to your teeth and require routine adjustments every few months.

Invisalign

Invisalign uses clear, removable plastic aligners to place mild pressure on your teeth and periodontal ligament. The aligners fit snugly over your upper or lower arch. You wear them all day, only removing them to eat or brush and floss.

What types of alignment problems can Invisalign treat?

Dr. Wilmore prescribes Invisalign to treat various alignment problems, including:

• Crowding
• Crooked teeth
• Overlapping teeth
• Gaps between the teeth

You might benefit from Invisalign treatment if you have a bite abnormality, like crossbite, overbite, or underbite.

What does orthodontic treatment with Invisalign involve?

Orthodontic treatment with Invisalign takes 12-18 months on average, but it may take longer.

You need to have healthy teeth and gums to get started, so if you have cavities or gum disease, Dr. Wilmore treats those issues first. After your mouth is problem-free, you begin treatment. 

First, Dr. Wilmore takes digital scans of your upper and lower arch. She sends your scans to an Invisalign lab that customizes clear, removable aligners that fit perfectly. 

Once your aligners are ready, you return to Dr. Wilmore’s office and try them on. Dr. Wilmore checks the fit, assesses your bite, and provides care instructions. Throughout treatment, you wear the aligners 20-22 hours daily.

Every few months, you visit Dr. Wilmore for regular checkups. At each checkup, Dr. Wilmore monitors your progress. She also provides you with new sets of Invisalign aligners that place slightly different pressure on your teeth. The results add up over time, moving your teeth and jaw into the optimal positions. 

Is Invisalign treatment painful?

Invisalign treatment is safe and typically well-tolerated. It’s normal to experience mild soreness and tooth sensitivity when you receive a new set of aligners, but these symptoms should improve within a day or two. If they continue or get worse, contact Dr. Wilmore so she can make the necessary adjustments. 

Call the office of Heather M. Wilmore, DDS, today to explore the benefits of Invisalign, or book your appointment online.