Invisible orthodontics is the alternative current to braces conventional. These are dental appliances which, like any other type of orthodontics, allow you to correct the malocclusion and obtain a smile that is functional as well as aesthetic.
But their main characteristic is that they are very subtle and discreet systemsthat is why this type of orthodontics has become the favorite of adults who do not want processing harms your image. And it is that, obviously, it is a much more aesthetic option than the classic metallic braces.
The specialists of the Ferrus & Bratos Clinic, Dr. Jorge Ferrus and Dr. Patricia Bratos, clarify all doubts about invisible orthodontics.
types of invisible braces
There are two types of invisible orthodontics: invisible aligners and lingual brackets.
Invisible aligners like Invisalign:
It is a system based on custom removable transparent splints, it is therefore the only orthodontics without brackets. They are practically imperceptible and can only be seen at short distances.
One of the aspects that makes this type of orthodontics more attractive is that the patient can remove splints for eating and brushing teeth.
Of course: for it to be possible meet deadlines and achieve optimal occlusion within the expected time, it is essential to wear the splints for a minimum of 22 hours a day. As the dental micro-movements progress, the patient changes his splints, approximately every 2 weeks.
lingual braces:
are those who go stuck inside the teeth. This makes it the only 100% invisible device, as the device cannot be seen while talking or smiling, even at short distances.
Although there are various brands within lingual orthodontics, Incognito is the only system whose brackets are custom made from the patient’s mouthmaking it a very precise treatment.
When is invisible orthodontics indicated?
any dental appliance corrects malocclusions and problems of overcrowdingupgrade or dental malpositions. Therefore, opting for more traditional systems or invisible methods is entirely up to the person based on their aesthetic and economic preferences.
What does the treatment consist of ?
All orthodontic treatment goes through different phases which, roughly speaking, are:
- Orthodontic study.
- Installation of the device.
- Monthly magazines.
- Removal of the device.
- Retention phase, to prevent the teeth from returning to the initial position before treatment.
In the case of Invisalign invisible aligners there is also another extra step: As the aligners are made to measure for the patient’s mouth, the orthodontist must perform a simulation of all dental micro-movements. To carry out this customization, it is necessary to take impressions of your mouth using a 3D intraoral scanner.
THE virtual samples obtained are sent electronically to the United States, where Alignment technology –the brand that manufactures the aligners– is headquartered. Thanks to ClinCheckthe computer software developed by the creator of the Invisalign brand, the patient and the orthodontist can know what What will your smile look like? once the treatment is complete.
Depending on the needs of the person, and the degree of crowding, malocclusion or any other oral problem, one should opt for the version of Invisalign Lite or Complete.
- The first type is indicated for mild casesnormally for patients who have had orthodontics before but whose teeth have moved, for example, due to the non-use of retainers.
- In exchange, complete invisalign It is the most complete version, since it manages to correct any malposition or bite problem. As is logical, for treatment with Full it will be necessary for the person to use more splints.
How long does the treatment last?
The duration of orthodontic treatment depends on whether the degree of malocclusion is mild, moderate or severe. It is necessary to carry out a preliminary study and planning to determine how long the orthodontics will have to be worn.
The average of these treatments is 18 monthsalthough there may be orthodontics 12 months and, in the most complex cases, 36.
Is invisible orthodontics always recommended?
Transparent aligners are the ideal option for patients responsible for their treatmentsince they have to wear the splints at least 22 hours a day and take care of them properly to avoid breakage or loss.
There are splint options for teenagers (Invisalign Teen), which incorporate blue indicators on the back and gradually lose their color to become transparent as they age. increases your uptime. It is a method of control for both the orthodontist and the parents.
In addition, Invisalign is particularly indicated for patients who have periodontal disease problems (gingivitis and periodontitis), because the forces they exert are less than those of traditional brackets. And not only that, since they are removable, they do not interfere with dental treatment in any way and are more hygienic than other types of orthodontics.
However, for patients who require a combined treatment of orthodontics and orthognathic surgery, it is preferable to opt for fixed orthodontics. This operation is performed on adult patients who have bone structure problemsIt is therefore necessary to modify its position and/or size to correct the malocclusion.
Advantages and disadvantages of invisible orthodontics
The main advantage of aligners is that, being removable, it does not affect daily oral hygiene or diet.
It is a very discreet system that does not disturb the patient’s image. Moreover, since it does not include any metal parts, it is a system that no injurieswounds or emergencies related to bracket drops.
Another positive aspect is that the patient can see a simulation of the end result itself before starting treatment. However, this requires a greater commitment on your part in reference to hours of use.
In reference to lingual orthodonticshas the great advantage of being completely invisible. In addition, as Incognito is a brand that manufactures custom brackets, it adapts perfectly to the patient’s mouth.
Now, as they are stuck inside the teeth, their the adaptation period is longer that if we are talking about metal brackets and can cause pain and sores in the first 2 weeks. Finally, as it is a fixed orthodontics, you have to be careful with certain foods, such as fibrous meats, sticky foods and also avoid biting hard foods.