The Invisalign® system is the virtually invisible way to
straighten your teeth and achieve the dazzling smile you've always dreamed
of. Using advanced 3-D computer-imaging technology, Invisalign depicts your
complete treatment plan, from the initial position of your teeth to the
final desired position. Then a series of clear aligners are custom-made for
your teeth – and your teeth only – to move them little by little. Each
aligner is worn for about two weeks before being replaced by the next in the
series, until the final position of your teeth is achieved. Your Invisalign
treatment time will be determined by Dr Hever, based on your specific needs.
What are the primary benefits of
Invisalign?
Invisalign aligners are practically clear. No one may even
notice that you're wearing these virtually invisible "braces," making
Invisalign a seamless fit with your lifestyle and day-to-day interactions
with others.
Invisalign is removable. Unlike braces, you have the flexibility to eat and
drink what you want during treatment by simply removing the aligners. And
you can also remove the aligners to brush and floss as you normally would
for fresh breath and good oral hygiene.
Unlike braces, there are no metal brackets or wires with the Invisalign
system that could cause irritation to your mouth. Plus since your office
visits during treatment don't involve metal or wire adjustments, you'll
likely spend less time in the doctor's chair.
And finally, Invisalign allows you to view your virtual results and
treatment plan before you start so you can see how your straight teeth will
look when your treatment is complete.
How do I get started with Invisalign?
Just make an appointment with an Dr Hever for a no charge
Invisalign consultation. Call 805-777-7447 today!
Can I go to any dentist to be treated with
Invisalign?
While Invisalign can be used with virtually any treatment
philosophy, special training is needed. All dentists interested in treating
patients with Invisalign must attend and complete specialized instructional
sessions to become trained Invisalign providers before cases will be
accepted from their office. Dr Hever was trained and certified by the
pioneers of Invisalign in 2003.
How will Invisalign effectively move my
teeth?
Like brackets and arch wires are to braces, Invisalign
aligners move teeth through the appropriate placement of controlled force on
your teeth. The main difference is that Invisalign not only controls forces,
but also the timing of the force application. During each stage, only
certain teeth are allowed to move. These movements are determined by your
doctor as he or she maps out your unique Invisalign treatment plan.
What are aligners made of, and what do
they look like?
The virtually invisible aligners, which are made of a
thermoplastic material uniquely developed for the Invisalign treatment plan,
look similar to tooth-whitening trays. Invisalign aligners are custom-made
for you and only you to move your teeth in the sequence determined by your
doctor.
How old is the company?
Align Technology, Inc., the company that manufactures
Invisalign, was founded in 1997.
How old is the technology?
In 1945, Dr. H.D. Kesling envisioned that one day modern
technology would enable the use of a series of tooth positioners to produce
the kinds of movements required for comprehensive orthodontic treatment.
Technology has made this vision a reality. Using advanced computer
technology, Align Technology produces Invisalign, a series of customized
clear appliances, or aligners. Each aligner is worn sequentially by the
patient to produce extensive tooth movements in both upper and lower arches.
How many patients are being treated with
Invisalign?
More than 500,000 patients worldwide have been treated with
Invisalign. The number of Invisalign smiles grows daily.
Has the FDA cleared Invisalign?
Invisalign aligners are classified as Class II medical
devices by the FDA, and Align Technology, Inc.has held the necessary 510K
clearance from the FDA since 1998 to be able to sell and market the
Invisalign system.
Do Invisalign aligners contain Bisphenol-A
(BPA)?
No. Invisalign aligners and Vivera Retainers do not contain
Bisphenol-A or phthalate plasticizers. These aligners and retainers are made
with USP Class VI medical grade, high molecular weight, polyurethane resins.
Tests have been conducted to determine the biocompatibility of these
materials, and show that they are biocompatible and pass all applicable
regulatory requirements and thresholds for human wear in the mouth. Of
course, as with any medical device, you should consult with your health
professional about your aligner or retainer treatment and any applicable
risks of use.
Is Invisalign available outside the United
States?
At this time, Invisalign is marketed in the United States,
Canada, Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Great Britain, Hong Kong, Italy,
Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Spain, Singapore, and Thailand.
Steven Hever
D.D.S., Inc.
Cosmetic
& Implant
Dentistry
