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3 Years Advanced Speciality Training in Orthodontics Uniquely Qualified in the Diagnosis, Prevention & Treatment of Orthodontic Problems
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INVISALIGN VS. SMILE DIRECT
Back in 1997, a company called Align Technology completely overwhelmed the world of orthodontics by introducing an alternative to metal braces.
This new product was called Invisalign, and it was capable of straightening teeth without using the traditional metal brackets and wires. Since that time, a number of other companies have also introduced their own version of clear aligners. Many of these are direct competitors to Invisalign and have their own benefits and features.
Interestingly, the same company which developed Invisalign has now created a system of mail order aligners, which has become known as the Smile Direct Club.
In effect, belonging to this club allows you to have a do-it-yourself option for straightening your teeth.
One of the big differences between Invisalign and Smile Direct is that there are no visits necessary to an orthodontist when using the Smile Direct approach.
The Invisalign system calls for mapping out an entire series of aligners that are to be used in succession. This will accomplish a gradual repositioning of teeth over a period of months, after which the ultimate goal should theoretically be achieved. These alignment trays work very well on mild-to-moderate issues, such as overcrowding, gapped teeth, and teeth that are mildly crooked. More severe issues may require the use of metal braces.
A majority of patients prefer to use clear plastic aligners because they’re less obtrusive and less visible than metal braces.
They’re also removable so that you can eat more comfortably and keep your plastic aligners brushed and flossed.
The Smile Direct Club also offers aligner trays for repositioning your teeth, however, the program is not administered by dentists or orthodontists.
Instead the system requires the use of remote teledentistry. While there are dentists and orthodontists working at the Smile Direct headquarters, most patients never have any direct interaction with them.
Patients are required to observe their own progress throughout the program of treatment and are also responsible for creating their own molds.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: What is the best age for orthodontic treatment?
A: There is no ideal age for orthodontic treatment since people of all ages can have their teeth re-positioned in their mouths. It is best to begin treatment at an early age, however, so your child can enjoy the benefits of proper positioning for the rest of their lifetime.
Q: My teeth are fine on top, but crooked on the bottom. Can I get braces that handle that situation?
A: You would have to consult with your local orthodontist to have that question answered definitively since every case is different.
Q: How long will it take to have my teeth properly re-aligned?
A: In less severe cases, it may only require a couple of months to complete the process. More severe re-alignments may require a couple of years in order for the process to be completed.
Q: Can I still get braces if I’m missing some teeth?
A: Usually it will still be possible to have braces installed if you’re missing a tooth. To be sure, you’d have to consult with our orthodontist Dr. Sejal Kamat.
metal – do I have other options?
A: Yes. Modern dentistry makes clear braces available to patients, and these are hard to detect when they’re in place. You won’t have to endure any of the embarrassment or discomfort of the past.
Q: I’m in my 70’s and considering using braces – am I too old for treatment?
A: Absolutely not. A good percentage of orthodontic patients are full-grown adults, many of whom are in their 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s.
