Mission Viejo dentists urge patient compliance when answering, "How well does Invisalign work?"

Since Invisalign was first introduced in the late 1990s, it has been a preferred way for many patients to achieve a straighter smile. These patients appreciate that the aligners worn to correct crooked teeth are made from a clear, smooth plastic. Unlike conventional metal wires and brackets, others don't see these straightening devices so your "secret" is safe with Basti Dental Care.

Traditional braces are also fixed, which means only dental professionals like Drs. Alex and Nina Basti can remove them. Invisalign aligners are removable. You have the flexibility to take out the aligners for eating, cleaning, and even special occasions. Traditional braces create tiny spaces between the teeth. These spaces trap food particles. The bacteria-filled plaque flourishes.

When you aren't able to clean under wires and between braces properly, plaque and food debris sit on the teeth. This process results in erosion of protective enamel. Your teeth are also susceptible to the very gum disease responsible for tooth shifting, not to mention tooth loss. Since aligners may be removed for cleaning, the ability to properly brush and floss is not impeded by brackets, wires, and other straightening devices. Oral hygiene doesn't suffer.

Yet at least one of the key reasons why patients love Invisalign is also one of the key risks to effective treatment: the removable nature of the aligners. Since these aligners gradually move teeth into proper place over the treatment period it is critical they be worn for the recommended time each day. For optimal effectiveness, the makers of Invisalign urge patients to wear the aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours daily. In fact, it has been noted in the majority of cases where Invisalign treatment has failed the patients did not wear the aligners as prescribed.

The science and technology is effective to correct common problems such as gaps and crowding. As Invisalign has innovated, it can now treat more severe overbite, underbite, and other issues with how the teeth fit together.

Like all treatments, there is no one option that works for every patient. If you are wondering, "How well does Invisalign work?", and want to know if it can work for your situation and goals, call Basti Dental Care in Mission Viejo. Drs. Alex and Nina Basti will walk you through these and other options, including today's aesthetically pleasing "conventional" braces and Six Months Smiles.