What Is Invisalign?

Braces are not the only option for crooked teeth, gaps, overcrowding and other challenges. Invisalign is a different treatment and one that comes with the benefit of being almost invisible.

If you’re curious about Invisalign in Metairie and surrounding areas, Murphy Orthodontics is an experienced, qualified provider of this treatment option.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a treatment option using clear aligners that have been customized to your teeth. This treatment is similar to braces, in that Invisalign for NOLA patients can help treat many of the same conditions as braces — including crooked teeth, bite misalignment, gaps in the teeth and overcrowding.

The Difference Between Invisalign and Traditional Braces

Invisalign is different than traditional braces. Unlike braces, you do not have to wear your aligner all the time. The aligner also molds to fit your teeth, which means that it’s often not visible at all.

Another big difference has to do with your diet. When you choose traditional braces, you need to avoid a variety of foods, including anything crunchy or sticky that can damage your braces or get stuck in them. Foods such as popcorn, nuts, hard taco shells, sticky candy and raw vegetables are typically off-limits. With Invisalign, you can continue to eat your favorite foods with no restrictions, since you remove your aligner to eat.

Advantages of Invisalign

Invisalign is a popular choice for many patients because it offers a wide range of benefits:

It is a virtually invisible treatment option. Invisalign aligners are clear, and they’re molded to fit your teeth. Unlike braces, they cannot be seen in photos and may not even be visible to people you talk to. If you are self-conscious about the idea of braces or if you are in a public-facing job where you don’t want to wear them, Invisalign can be an option for you.

This treatment option is customizable. Invisalign aligners are based on an accurate model of your mouth, so your aligners are made for you and the unique needs of your teeth.

This treatment is comfortable. There are no wires, metal brackets or elastics to move around your mouth or scrape against your tongue or lips. Invisalign aligners are made from a rounded, smooth plastic.

You can see your progress. Since Invisalign aligners are clear and removable, you can start to see progress quickly. Many patients start to see changes in their smile within a few weeks, before treatment is even complete. 

There is no need to change your lifestyle. You can remove Invisalign aligners to brush your teeth, floss, drink and eat, so you don’t have to adapt your daily routine to your orthodontic treatment. You can even remove them for special occasions — so you can smile brightly for all the big moments of your life.

Is Invisalign Right for Me?

Invisalign may be a good choice for patients who need some orthodontic treatment but who don’t want the appearance of braces. Whether you are an adult or a kid Invisalign could be an option. The best candidates are those who can commit to sticking to the treatment regimen at home. Since you must wear the aligners for a prescribed period of time per day, you must be sure to care for your aligners and stick to your schedule.  

If you’re curious about Invisalign braces in New Orleans, get in touch with Murphy Orthodontics. At our office, we combine state-of-the-art treatment options with a friendly approach. Our staff genuinely cares about our patients and works hard to create beautiful smiles for every person who walks into our clinic. We show up each day passionate about changing lives, one brighter smile at a time. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation.