Invisalign® Clear Braces for Healthy, Beautiful Smiles in Mankato
If you’re looking for a comfortable and effective alternative to standard braces, Invisalign could be your answer! At Skinner Family Dentistry, we help teens and adults with bite issues achieve straighter, healthier smiles with clear braces that are customized to you.
Dr. Skinner and his team work with almost any kind of bite issue, from mild to complex. Schedule your visit today to find out how Invisalign can help your smile!
CALL US: (507) 345-4752 REQUEST APPOINTMENT
Why Straighten Your Smile?
Having a straight, uniform smile is certainly aesthetically appealing, but there’s much more to straightening teeth than making them look good. When your teeth are evenly aligned, your smile will be much healthier overall.
Here are a few advantages you can expect with a straighter smile:
- Fewer Cavities – Brushing and flossing is more effective when teeth aren’t crowded together, making it easier for you to remove cavity-causing bacteria and plaque.
- Healthier Gums – Better oral hygiene also means less irritation for your gums and a lower risk of gum disease.
- Stronger Teeth – When teeth meet evenly, there’s less long-term wear on the teeth, which keeps them stronger and better able to bite and chew.
- Less Jaw Pain – An even bite also puts less pressure on your jaw, especially at the joints, so you’re less likely to develop jaw pain.
- More Confidence – Feeling good about the way your smile looks makes it easier for you to smile, promoting positive feelings in you and those around you.
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign is a type of orthodontic treatment designed to straighten dental misalignment. It uses a series of customized plastic trays to apply targeted pressure to certain teeth in order to shift them. Each set moves teeth slightly further, gradually guiding them into the ideal bite position. You’ll need to wear the trays for at least 22 hours a day, otherwise they won’t be as effective and treatment may take longer.
5 Benefits of Choosing Invisalign Clear Braces
Invisalign has become a popular way to straighten teeth due to its many benefits. Here are a few reasons you might consider choosing these braces for yourself:
- Discreet – Invisalign trays are made of a clear plastic that’s carefully molded to fit your teeth. This makes them almost invisible when you speak or smile, so treatment isn’t obvious.
- Comfortable – With Invisalign, there are no poking wires or metal attachments. You’ll often forget you’re even wearing them.
- Convenient – The trays are removable, so you can take them out to eat, brush, and floss. You won’t need to change your diet or use special hygiene tools.
- Quick – Most Invisalign patients can finish their treatment in less time than traditional braces.
- Safe – The close customized fit of the trays means they won’t irritate your gums or soft tissues and cause sores. They also reduce the risk of an accident, especially in contact sports or physical activity.
Can I Use Invisalign?
At Skinner Family Dentistry, we offer Invisalign treatment to adults and responsible teens with orthodontic issues. Not only do we treat mild and moderate bite misalignment, but we can handle some of the more complex cases as well. Dr. Skinner will perform a comprehensive exam to determine whether Invisalign treatment can help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile.
We work with a variety of patients and are passionate about helping you achieve your best smile. Whether you’ve had orthodontic treatment that has relapsed or you’re looking to straighten your bite for the first time, our team will work with you to deliver personalized treatment and help you reach your goals.
Getting Started with Invisalign Treatment in Mankato
The first step is determining whether you are a candidate for Invisalign. Dr. Skinner uses the latest technology, such as digital x-rays and 3D digital bite impressions, to evaluate your situation. This technology can also help you see how your smile will look when treatment is complete.
Once you’re ready to start treatment, we use the digital impressions to design your custom aligner tray. We’ll give you a few sets of trays at each visit, allowing you to control your treatment without needing frequent trips to the office. You’ll wear each set of trays for two weeks, then graduate to the next set. Over time, you’ll begin to notice the difference as each set moves your teeth a little further and your new bite emerges.
Invisalign FAQ
Do you have questions about Invisalign? You’re not alone! Here are a few of the questions patients often ask about this treatment. If you’d like to know more, contact our office and schedule a visit to talk with Dr. Skinner and our helpful team.
How Long Does Invisalign Take?
The time for treatment and number of trays varies for each patient, as no two cases are alike. On average, treatment will take between 12-18 months to complete, while traditional braces typically take two years or more. Dr. Skinner can give you an estimate at your consultation for how long your treatment will personally take. You’ll begin to see results of your treatment fairly quickly, often within the first few months.
Does Invisalign Treatment Hurt?
Orthodontic treatment can cause some soreness in your teeth, and clear braces are no exception. Since your teeth are being forced into a new position, they may feel sore in the first few days after switching to a new set of trays. This soreness is mild and will go away within a day or two. Stick to soft foods and use over-the-counter pain relievers to make this transition easier.
Regardless of soreness, most patients find Invisalign treatment to be more comfortable overall, especially since it doesn’t irritate your mouth or cause sores.
Are There Things You Can’t Eat with Invisalign?
Not at all! Since the trays can be removed to eat, you’re free to eat anything you like without worrying about them messing up your braces or your treatment. Just make sure you brush your teeth and rinse your trays before putting them back in.
You’ll want to have a toothbrush and toothpaste with you if you’re eating out so you can put your trays back on quickly. Some patients find they snack less often while wearing Invisalign, especially during the workday.
Enjoy Your Best Smile with Invisalign!
At Skinner Family Dentistry, seeing our patients enjoying their new smiles with pride is what we love! We’re thrilled to help you and your loved ones in Mankato to achieve a smile that’s straighter, healthier, and easy to share with the world. Ready to find out if Invisalign is for you? Contact us to get started today!
CALL US: (507) 345-4752 REQUEST APPOINTMENT
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