Invisalign Straightens Tulsa Smiles

Invisalign uses a series of custom-made clear aligners that are worn over the teeth to gradually move them into their correct position. This allows them to be virtually undetectable while also eliminating the hassles of traditional braces. You will also enjoy a shorter treatment time. On average, the aligners are only needed for about 12 months.

Invisalign is effective for treating an array of alignment issues; however, you will require a consultation to ensure that you are a candidate. In addition to a visual examination, 3D impressions are taken to create the series of aligners. In addition, it will provide you with a representation of how your teeth will move during the treatment so you can see the final results before you even commit to it.

You will wear each aligner for about 22 hours per day, only taking them out when eating, drinking, or caring for your teeth. Each one is used for about one week, at which point you will switch to the next in the series. You will not have to worry about coming into the office for adjustments because no wires are used. However, you will still need periodic visits so we can monitor the progression of your treatment.

While wearing the aligners, they will fit securely so you do not have to worry about them slipping or falling off. In addition, they are smooth so there is no irritation to the inside of the lips or cheeks. Caring for them is easy using nonabrasive products and dye-free cleaning solutions. This is important to ensure that they remain transparent for a less noticeable appearance.

At the end of your treatment, you will need a retainer for a brief period of time to prevent your teeth from moving back into their previous positions. In as little as a year, you will have a straight, healthy smile with results that will last.

If you are tired of feeling self-conscious about your teeth, it is time to get a straight smile with Invisalign. Dr. Terry Rigdon will perform the necessary consultation and create a customized treatment plan to start your journey to enhanced confidence.

Contact Rigdon Dental & Associates today to schedule your consultation. We look forward to seeing you smile.

Getting your teeth straightened with clear plastic aligners offers a multitude of benefits over traditional metal braces. However, the treatment does take some time to get used to. Are you curious as to what your day-to-day life with Invisalign in Tulsa will be like? Then read this section where we answer our most frequently asked questions about Invisalign.

If you know someone who has worn conventional braces, or you used to have them yourself, it's easy to associate orthodontic treatment with oral discomfort. Fortunately, Invisalign aligners are designed with your comfort in mind. They are made from a smooth plastic that shouldn't irritate the soft tissues in your mouth.

It's worth noting, however, that after you first get Invisalign, or after switching to a new set of aligners in the series, your teeth may feel a bit sore or sensitive. This is because Invisalign works by exerting a gentle force upon your teeth to shift them into the desired straight position. You can combat this discomfort by switching to a new aligner at night, so you can sleep through the majority of the adjustment period.

Depending on your individual case, you'll probably need to see your dentist in Tulsa once every six to eight weeks throughout the course of your Invisalign treatment. At these appointments, we'll evaluate your progress and you can pick up your next few sets of aligners.

Because your aligners are removable, they're actually fairly easy to maintain. It's imperative that you clean them daily to prevent bacteria from accumulating on them and contributing to oral health problems like gum disease and tooth decay. Here are a few basic aligner maintenance tips:

• Each morning and night, rinse your aligners until cool or lukewarm water (NEVER use hot water as that could change the shape of the plastic)
• Every day, clean your aligners using a soft-bristled toothbrush (no toothpaste) and clear antibacterial hand soap
• For about 15 minutes every day, soak your aligners in Invisalign cleaning solution or a 50/50 mix of water and vinegar
• After eating (or drinking anything besides water), brush and floss your teeth before placing your aligners back in your mouth

At first, it might. It may sound like you have a bit of a lisp, but the good news is this problem subsides relatively quickly. Many of the sounds you make are achieved by pressing your tongue against the roof of your mouth or the backs of your top front teeth. Wearing your aligners changes this distance a bit, so your tongue gets a little confused. However, most people talk like normal again after about a week or less. You can speed up this process by practicing speaking exercises, like counting from sixty to seventy over and over again. Do it enough and your tongue will grow accustomed to the new patterns.