Invisalign® is the clear way to straighten crooked teeth.
Crooked teeth can make patients feel self-conscious about their smile. A cosmetic dental concern, crooked teeth may also impact your oral health. Straightening crooked teeth can improve your self-confidence and dental wellness, but many adult patients feel embarrassed about wearing traditional metal braces.
Invisalign® in Lititz, PA, is a clear and discreet way to realign crooked teeth. Dr. John and Sara Gotwalt offer Invisalign® clear aligners for teen and adult patients looking for a practically invisible way to straighten their crooked teeth.
How Invisalign® Works
Invisalign gradually shifts teeth into alignment through a series of custom-designed aligners. Using the state-of-the-art Invisalign® digital technology, Dr. Gotwalt takes images of your teeth and gums. These images are used to create a series of aligners made from a hard-soft plastic. The aligners fit snugly against the teeth, allowing patients to speak normally while wearing their aligners. The soft material reduces discomfort or injury to the soft tissues.
The personalized series of aligner sets will be worn over the span of about one year. Patients typically wear each set of aligners for two weeks. Treatment times will vary depending on the degree of orthodontic issues. Dr. Gotwalt will outline each patient’s specific treatment guidelines on a personal basis. Strict compliance with wearing the aligners is critical for successful treatment.
Invisalign® vs. Traditional Braces: Making the Right Choice
Many patients wonder whether Invisalign® or traditional braces are the better option for their orthodontic needs. Invisalign offers significant advantages, including a virtually invisible appearance, easy removal for eating and cleaning, and greater comfort without metal brackets or wires that can irritate soft tissues. Traditional braces may be recommended for severe bite issues, complex orthodontic problems, or patients who may struggle with aligner compliance. Dr. Sara Gotwalt will evaluate your specific case during your consultation to recommend the most effective treatment option for achieving your ideal smile.
Benefits of Invisalign®
Invisalign® aligners provide patients with many short and long-term benefits. Invisalign aligners allow for improved oral health, straighter teeth, and a more confident smile—all without the need for bulky, painful braces.
Benefits of Invisalign® clear aligners include:
- Removable- Invisalign® aligners are removable. This allows patients to remove their aligner for thorough brushing and flossing. Patients who wear Invisalign are less likely to develop tooth decay or tooth discoloration, which is often associated with traditional metal braces. Aligners can also be removed while eating so patients may enjoy a diet without restriction during their treatment.
- Clear- The innovative plastic used to design Invisalign® aligners is virtually invisible. The translucent material sits snugly on the teeth and can be barely visible to anyone else. Patients can maintain their daily professional and personal interactions with confidence.
- Comfortable- The hard-soft plastic used to make Invisalign® aligners is gentle on the soft tissues in the oral cavity. Patients experience less swelling, bleeding, and general discomfort associated with metal braces.
- Effective- When appropriately worn for the recommended time, Invisalign® aligners can be highly effective. Invisalign® can address crooked teeth and minor malocclusion and can close gaps between teeth. Patients enjoy a straighter, beautiful, natural-looking smile for years.
Tips for Invisalign® Success
Achieving the best results with your Invisalign® treatment requires consistent care and proper habits. Dr. Sara Gotwalt provides patients with essential guidelines to ensure successful treatment and optimal results.
Wear Time Compliance
The most critical factor for Invisalign® success is wearing your aligners for 20-22 hours per day. Remove aligners only for eating, drinking anything other than water, and cleaning your teeth. Consistent wear time ensures your teeth move according to the treatment plan and prevents delays in achieving your desired results.
Proper Cleaning and Maintenance
Clean your aligners daily with lukewarm water and a soft toothbrush to prevent bacteria buildup and odors. Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic, and always brush and floss your teeth before reinserting aligners to maintain optimal oral health. Store aligners in their protective case when not in use to prevent loss or damage.
Diet and Lifestyle Adjustments
While you can eat whatever you want with Invisalign®, always remove aligners before consuming food or beverages other than water. Drinking coffee, tea, or other colored beverages while wearing aligners can cause staining. Plan your meals and snacks to minimize the time aligners are out of your mouth, and always rinse your mouth before putting aligners back in.
Start Your Invisalign® Journey Today
Invisalign® clear aligners offer a discreet and effective solution for patients seeking to straighten crooked teeth without the inconvenience of traditional metal braces. Dr. Sara Gotwalt provides personalized Invisalign treatment plans designed to help you achieve a straighter, more confident smile while maintaining your professional and personal lifestyle. We’ll review all Invisalign® requirements during your consultation to ensure the treatment is right for you. With proper care and compliance, our Invisalign in Lititz, PA, can transform crooked teeth into a beautiful, natural-looking smile that lasts for years. Contact Dr. Sara Gotwalt, DMD, today to schedule your consultation and learn how Invisalign® can help you enjoy the confident smile you deserve.