How Invisalign Differs from Traditional Braces
Traditional braces use metal brackets bonded to each tooth, connected by wires that get adjusted periodically to move teeth. Invisalign takes a different approach. You receive a series of custom-made clear aligners, each one slightly different from the last. You wear each set for about one to two weeks before switching to the next in the sequence. Each aligner applies gentle pressure to specific teeth, moving them incrementally until they reach the desired position.
One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. You can take the aligners out to eat, so there are fewer food limitations compared to traditional braces. You also remove them for brushing and flossing, which means you can maintain normal oral hygiene instead of navigating around brackets and wires. This flexibility makes Invisalign in Greer especially appealing to anyone who needs orthodontic correction but doesn’t want the lifestyle disruptions that come with traditional braces.
What Invisalign Can Fix
Invisalign addresses many common alignment issues effectively:
Crowded Teeth
When your jaw doesn’t have enough room for all your teeth to fit normally, they overlap, twist, or get pushed out of alignment. Crowding makes thorough cleaning nearly impossible in some spots, increasing your risk for cavities and gum disease. Invisalign gradually creates space and guides teeth into proper positions where you can actually reach them with your toothbrush and floss.
Gaps Between Teeth
Excessive spacing between teeth can occur naturally or develop after tooth loss. These gaps trap food and provide pockets where bacteria accumulate. Dr. Igor Lantsberg uses Invisalign to close these spaces, improving both appearance and oral health.
Overbite and Underbite
An overbite happens when your upper teeth extend too far over your lower teeth, while an underbite means your lower teeth protrude past your upper teeth. Both conditions can cause uneven tooth wear, jaw pain, and difficulty chewing. Invisalign can correct mild to moderate bite issues by repositioning teeth to create proper alignment.
The Treatment Process from Start to Finish
Getting Invisalign starts with a consultation where the team evaluates your teeth and determines whether you’re a good candidate. Not every orthodontic case works well with clear aligners—severe misalignment or complex bite problems might still require traditional braces. If Invisalign is right for you, the process starts with taking digital scans and photos of your teeth and face.
These records create a detailed 3D model that maps out your entire treatment plan. You will be able to see a digital preview of how your teeth will move and what your finished smile will look like. Our dedicated lab uses this plan to manufacture your custom set of aligners and final retainers.
You’ll wear each set of aligners for approximately 22 hours per day, removing them only for eating and cleaning. Every two weeks, you switch to the next aligner in the series. Periodic checkups every four to six weeks let the team monitor your progress and ensure everything’s moving according to plan. Most treatments take 12 to 18 months, though simpler cases might finish faster, and complex ones could take longer.
Living with Invisalign Aligners
The adjustment period is usually minimal. You may notice a slight lisp for the first day or two as your tongue gets used to the aligners, but this typically resolves quickly. Each time you switch to a new set, the aligners may feel snug or slightly tight at first—that gentle pressure is what moves your teeth—and any discomfort is usually mild and fades within a couple of days.
Keeping your aligners clean is simple. Rinse and gently brush them with a toothbrush and clear soap each time you remove them. Avoid hot water, which can warp the aligner material. It’s important to brush your teeth after eating before putting the aligners back in, because leaving food or sugar trapped against your teeth for long periods can increase the risk of plaque buildup and cavities.
Consistency is one of the biggest keys to success with Invisalign. Wearing your aligners less than the recommended 22 hours a day can slow the process, extend your treatment time, and potentially affect your final results.
Invisalign in Greer, SC
Invisalign offers effective orthodontic correction without drawing attention to your treatment. Whether you’re a professional who meets with clients regularly or simply someone who values flexibility, clear aligners deliver beautiful results while fitting seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Contact Twin Falls Family Dentistry in Greer to schedule your Invisalign consultation and learn how clear aligners can transform your smile without the hassle of traditional braces.