These are a clear type of correcting or straightening devices for your teeth. The material that is used for these types of braces is made from clear plastic so they are not totally invisible. They consist of an aligner tray to help you align your teeth into the correct position over a period of time. The aligners are another name for invisible braces. The orthodontist will take precise measurements of your mouth before they make the aligner tray. Once it is done they will help you put it in your mouth.
It is a multi-step process setting invisible braces. Every few weeks the orthodontist will set a new group of aligners into place to continue with the straightening process. How long the treatment will take depends on several factors that are determined by the orthodontist. Part of the routine maintenance for taking care of the braces is that when eating or brushing your teeth you will remove the aligner tray.
An advantage of wearing this brace style is that there are no other materials involved, just the aligner tray. You will not have to use any special brackets or wiring that will need to be adjusted. They are also more comfortable to wear and adjust than the traditional braces. Although invisible braces are becoming more popular not all orthodontists offer invisible braces so check with your dentist or orthodontist to see if they offer them.
Invisible braces can be patented under different names but they basically all work the same way. Generally this type of brace uses only clear plastic aligning trays that are removable but no metal. When you see your orthodontist for braces they will first take an impression of your teeth in order to get a model of the structure of your teeth and mouth. These models will give the orthodontist what they need to provide you with perfect customized invisible braces created just for you. They may also take photos or x-rays of your teeth and mouth.
Once the orthodontist has the impressions along with the x-rays and your personal prescription they will send them off to the laboratory where your braces will be made. In the laboratory, many times they will make a three-dimensional replica of your teeth. The plans for the invisible braces will usually be mapped on the computer and when everything is exactly to specification, the laboratory will ship the aligner tray to your orthodontist.
Most dental plans will cover the cost of your invisible braces, which can cost from three thousand five hundred to seven thousand dollars. The exact cost will depend on the level of treatment, how long you need to wear the invisible braces, the orthodontist you choose, and other factors.