Does Invisalign® really work?
At L.A. Dental Arts, we are regularly asked about Invisalign® and how effective it is at straightening teeth. This is an understandable question, because the process of using clear aligners is relatively new in comparison to wearing metal braces. As with any new technology, people often wonder, “Does Invisalign® really work?” and the answer is, yes. If you want a straight and beautiful smile without making it obvious that you are undergoing dental care, this is the best solution for you. As with any procedure, you will need to follow our instructions to ensure that your teeth move correctly and as quickly as possible. For example, aligners need to be worn for around 22 hours a day. While removable, you must be careful to keep them in place for as long as possible in order to keep your treatment schedule on track. They need to come out while you eat, so they do not become damaged or warped. You should also remove them when drinking anything hot since that can also warp them. However, as soon as you are done eating and brushing your teeth, the aligners need to be replaced. In our Chatsworth, CA dental office, we recommend that you put your aligners in a special container we provide, so they are not accidentally thrown away. Too many people have put their aligners in napkins, only to find that they are gone after lunch. Replacing them quickly is important, so be sure to keep their case with you instead of taking them out at home and waiting until you come back to replace them. This will help you to stick with the 22 hours a day requirement and keep your straightening plan on schedule. Doing so will take your teeth from crooked to straight in a short period of time.

Does Invisalign® really work for adults?
Yes, Invisalign® was created for adult teeth. While braces are traditionally associated with children, the process of using clear aligners is better suited for adult teeth. This is because Invisalign® works using a series of clear aligners. Before the treatment starts, an impression will be taken of your teeth, along with measurements and pictures. These will then be used to create 3D images and project what your teeth will do when pressure is applied to certain teeth. The entire treatment plan will be created using high-tech computer software and input from Dr. Yury Bershadsky. The Invisalign® lab will then make the aligners. Each aligner is designed to move specific teeth and to be worn for two weeks at a time before being switched out for the next one in the series. Since the aligners are created at the beginning of the process, it works best on adult teeth that are fully mature. Some older teens can also benefit from straightening their teeth with Invisalign®.