To have a beautiful and healthy smile, from today it is no longer necessary to resort to unsightly metal braces, but just use a series of transparent and almost invisible masks that move, little by little, the teeth into the desired position. This system, which is called Invisalign, provides for the replacement of the aligners, usually every two weeks, until the end of the treatment.

To perform at their best, the masks must always be worn, except for meals, during which they can be removed. Currently, over 3 million people have been treated with Invisalign braces, with excellent results. Are you looking for an aesthetically not too invasive method to align your teeth? Virzì dentist in Milan can help you by offering you this innovative solution, which is almost invisible.

For some years now we have been hearing about the “Invisalign method”. But, in fact, what is it about? And what is it for? Invisalign is a new system that allows you to align your teeth without wearing those unsightly orthodontic appliances made up of metal wires and plates.

This method is in fact based on the application of transparent and practically invisible tooth masks, tailor-made for the patient.

These aligners, called aligners, are replaced every one or two weeks following the movements of your teeth, until you reach your new perfect smile. The duration of treatment with Invisalign aligners is variable and depends on the patient’s starting situation.

Before positioning the aligners, in fact, control examinations, panoramas and impressions are carried out to understand how the teeth are positioned. Then with special software the dentist creates a precise 3D model of the dental arches. This model will reproduce the final result that will be obtained with the use of the dental trays. The same program is also able to calculate how many weeks are needed to obtain the desired outcome.

How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign treatment begins with a careful orthodontic diagnosis, focused on identifying the best way to proceed, based on the specific needs of the patient. Once this phase has been completed, mouth impressions are made, from which transparent masks are obtained, which embrace the teeth and push them in the desired direction.

The movements produced are regulated by the same biomechanics proposed by traditional orthodontic appliances. The first few days that the aligners are worn it is normal to feel a little discomfort, but usually it is not necessary to take analgesics. Moreover, this happens with any orthodontic therapy, as processes must be started that allow the teeth to be moved.

In fact, the masks are smooth, but they cause some pressure, which indicates that they are acting correctly and effectively. Since the introduction of transparent appliances there has been a constant evolution, which has led to a better optimization of individual dental movements, so much so that today Invisalign has an effectiveness that is completely comparable to that of fixed orthodontic therapies.

Why choose invisible orthodontics?

Invisalign offers numerous advantages over traditional orthodontic techniques, which involve fixed and impacting appliances from an aesthetic point of view. In fact, the masks, as already mentioned above, are practically invisible. Therefore, it is possible to intervene on the teeth in a discreet way, without anyone noticing.

Furthermore, they do not produce bruises or lesions in the mouth, as often happens, or at least in the initial phase, with the metal brackets of fixed appliances. Don’t forget, then, that the aligners are removable. This means that you can eat and brush your teeth comfortably.

In fact, there are no problems related to the use of dental floss and toothbrush. In this way it is possible to ensure excellent oral hygiene, even during treatment, avoiding the onset of caries or other disorders, which in the long run could be serious and compromise the health of the patient’s teeth.

However, it is good to remember that traditional fixed braces can also damage dental enamel. The appearance of white decalcification spots around the site of orthodontic brackets, unfortunately, is not to be considered a rare event. This problem can be completely avoided with Invisalign.

The benefits of Invisalign

Invisalign, compared to traditional orthodontic techniques, has some undoubted advantages:

aesthetic appearance: the transparent masks are almost invisible, only an attentive eye can notice their presence

hygiene: the masks can be removed and washed very easily

convenience: Invisalign can be removed when eating and brushing your teeth, ensuring correct and simple oral hygiene

safety: food cannot infiltrate between the teeth and the appliance, and this greatly reduces the likelihood of developing cavities. Furthermore, there are no metal components that can cause discomfort and irritation.

Can Invisalign be used for any problem?

The Invisalign system is suitable for correcting a wide range of problems, similar to traditional orthodontics. However, there are some particular defects for which the use of aligners is not indicated: it is always essential to discuss the alternatives available with your trusted dentist.

Invisalign has been shown to be particularly effective in correcting and resolving cases of dental crowding, strong spacing, crossbite and reverse bite.

Is Invisalign suitable for everyone?

Functionally, the treatment can also be used on children and adolescents. However, periodic replacement of the masks (every one or two weeks) and the obligation to wear them at least 22 hours to obtain satisfactory results require a good dose of discipline and commitment, which make Invisalign more suitable for adults.

In any case, there are product lines – Invisalign First and Invisalign Teen – designed specifically for children and young people. How much does Invisalign cost?

The cost varies according to the complexity of the case, but is comparable to traditional orthodontic rates: it is generally between 4,000 and 9,000 CHF. The treatment is recognized by the health insurance companies.