Nov
A healthy, beautiful smile can be a tremendous asset in life. If your smile is lacking due to crooked teeth, Invisalign orthodontic treatment could be the solution you need. Invisalign teeth aligners slowly and systematically shift your crooked teeth into a healthier, straighter position. Dr. Rich Flores offers Invisalign orthodontics to our Willoughby, Ohio, patients. Here are some questions we’re often asked about Invisalign treatment.
Invisalign replaces traditional metal braces with a series of clear, thermoplastic aligners to straighten your teeth. These aligners are customized to fit snugly over your teeth and place just the right amount of pressure to slowly move them into a straighter position. Using 3D imaging, Dr. Flores will map out the movements of your teeth from start to finish so you can see what your new smile will be like by the end of your treatment.Â
You’ll wear the aligners full-time, except when you eat and brush your teeth. You can also remove the aligners temporarily for special activities, as long as you remember to put them back immediately afterward. Every few weeks, you’ll change to a new set of aligners as outlined in your treatment. You’ll continue this process until your orthodontic goals are achieved.
One of the most attractive aspects of Invisalign aligners is their invisibility. When worn, they blend in with your teeth, making them very discreet. You can smile, talk, and interact with others without feeling awkward about your appearance.Â
The aligners easily fit into your daily lifestyle as they’re easy to use, comfortable to wear, and removable for meals and oral hygiene. You don’t need to change your eating habits or oral hygiene routine. You can even see your dentist regularly for routine cleanings.Â
As there are no wires or bands to adjust with Invisalign, you’ll spend less time at the dentist’s office. Dr. Flores may schedule appointments every four to six weeks to keep track of your progress. We’re also available at any time should you have questions about your treatment.
Like metal braces, Invisalign can correct problems with crooked teeth, uneven spaces between teeth, malocclusion, and overcrowding. By wearing the aligners as instructed – 20 to 22 hours daily – you’ll see steady improvement in your smile throughout your treatment. Each set of aligners moves your teeth a little bit closer to your smile goals. Before you know it, you’ll be showing off a picture-perfect smile to everyone you meet!   Â
Treatment times vary depending on the problems that need to be fixed. Most people, however, wear their aligners for 12 to 18 months. After completing your treatment, Dr. Flores will give you a retainer to use at night to keep your teeth in their new straightened position long term.
Dr. Rich Flores is your go-to dentist for Invisalign in Willoughby, OH. Contact us at (440) 856-8774 for all your orthodontic needs.Â
Dr. Rich Flores
Rich Flores, DDS, has over ten years of experience in private dentistry. He graduated from Saint Ignatius High School and attended Allegheny College in Meadville, PA, where he received his Bachelor of Science in Biology. He then attended the Ohio State University College of Dentistry and entered private practice in Columbus, OH, immediately upon graduation.
Dr. Rich believes in compassionate, quality dental care in a comfortable setting and treats patients as if they are family. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Ohio Dental Association, and Cleveland Dental Society and is certified in Invisalign and dental implants.