Invisalign

Why Invisalign is a Smart Choice

One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign is its discreet appearance. These aligners are clear, meaning most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them. Plus, they’re removable, so you can eat and drink what you like and easily maintain your oral hygiene.

What is a Dental Hygiene Treatment?

Dental hygiene treatment, also known as dental cleaning or prophylaxis, is a preventive dental procedure performed by dental hygienists to maintain good oral health. The treatment involves the removal of dental plaque and tartar (calculus) that may have accumulated on the teeth, especially in areas that are difficult to reach through regular brushing and flossing. Here is what typically happens during a dental hygiene treatment:

1. Assessment: The dental hygienist starts by assessing your overall oral health. They may ask about your medical history, examine your teeth and gums, and sometimes take X-rays to identify any underlying issues.
2. Plaque and Tartar Removal: Using specialized dental instruments, the hygienist removes plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth. Plaque is a soft, sticky film containing bacteria that forms on teeth, and if not removed, it can harden into tartar, which can lead to gum disease and cavities.
3. Scaling: The hygienist may perform scaling, a process of removing tartar both above and below the gumline. This is important for preventing gum disease.
4. Polishing: After scaling, the hygienist polishes your teeth using a gritty toothpaste-like material and a high-powered electric brush. Polishing helps remove surface stains and makes your teeth smoother, which makes it harder for plaque to accumulate.
5. Flossing: The hygienist may floss your teeth to ensure that the spaces between your teeth are clean and free of plaque and food particles.
6. Fluoride Treatment: In some cases, a fluoride treatment may be applied to your teeth. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and can prevent tooth decay.
7. Education and Tips: Dental hygienists often provide valuable information about proper oral hygiene techniques, including brushing and flossing methods tailored to your specific needs. They may also discuss diet and lifestyle choices that affect your oral health.

Regular dental hygiene treatments are essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing dental problems. It is generally recommended to have a dental cleaning every six months, although your dentist or hygienist may suggest a different schedule based on your individual needs and oral health status.

Understanding the Limitations

While Invisalign offers many benefits, there are some limitations to consider:

• Compliance: For Invisalign to work, the aligners need to be worn for 20-22 hours per day. Failing to do so may extend your treatment time.
• Mild Discomfort: You may experience some discomfort when switching to a new set of aligners, but this usually subsides within a few days.
• Not for Severe Cases: Invisalign may not be suitable for more complex orthodontic cases, which may require traditional braces.