Are Invisalign® Aligners Invisible?

Invisalign is one of the options the dentist will suggest if you need to straighten your teeth. The procedure comprises aligner trays and has been used by millions of patients to achieve optimal functionality and aesthetics of the teeth. Invisalign are more comfortable to use and are also more discreet. But just how discreet and invisible are Invisalign aligners?

Invisalign clear aligners

Invisalign clear aligners system is a popular aligner technology that provides people who have crooked teeth the option of a discreet and minimally invasive treatment. It is the most common alternative to traditional metal braces. The treatment is discreet because it uses transparent aligner trays to shift the teeth over time slowly. The material used is a patented thermoplastic called SmartTrack. The flexible plastic is hard to distinguish when it is on the teeth and makes the process comfortable.

Clear or invisible

Yes, Invisalign is produced with a transparent material. However, being clear or transparent does not translate to invisibility. Although the clear aligners are typically hard to spot, some people may see them because they are not completely invisible. Thinking about it now – it is impractical and impossible to make the Invisalign aligners invisible. If they were, patients would have a hard time finding and using them

Although many onlookers would not detect the aligners, certain situations can make aligners more visible. If the patient is standing under direct sunlight or in a well-lit space, the plastic used for making the aligners may reflect light and make them more apparent than usual.

When patients visit the dentist for teeth straightening, they will learn about the conditions that can be treated effectively with Invisalign. For those who have gaps between their teeth, the clear aligners may trap food remains and saliva in those spaces. In such cases, the aligners may be more noticeable.

Although patients are generally advised to wear their Invisalign aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours every day, it is advisable to take them off when eating or drinking anything aside from water. The aligners may be stained from drinking highly-pigmented drinks. There is also the risk of damages by chewing with the aligners. When the trays become stained, they will be more conspicuous on the teeth. One may think that the aligners are short-lived – only to be worn for two weeks – but it is not an excuse to avoid taking necessary precautions.

The dentist will develop a custom treatment plan for the patient. This may include using the aligners with add-ons, such as attachments and buttons. Although the aligners will remain transparent, the add-ons are not. Attachments or buttons on the aligners can make the teeth straightening process a little more obvious.

Final thoughts

If you want to learn more about Invisalign clear aligners and how they can help you get a straighter smile, contact the dentist for a consultation. The dental professional will be happy to answer any question you have about the treatment and help you decide if the treatment will achieve the results you desire.

Request an appointment here: https://www.sacramentosleepdentist.com or call Dental Excellence of Greenhaven at (916) 293-0504 for an appointment in our Sacramento office.

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