Since contemporary orthodontics were not around until the early 17th century, oral braces date back to the ancient times. Hippocrates and Aristotle along with many other historical figures, gave consideration and came up with early systems to help people fix and straighten their teeth. Earlier orthodontics used catgut and natural fiber that was made of animal intestines to straighten teeth instead of the metal wires we see today.
Fortunately, those orthodontic practices moved onto more adequate methods. Since the early 19th century, when braces were fabricated, metal braces were the system of choice for many orthodontists and dentist world-wide. They were used to fix countless of problems. From malocclusion and overbites to diastemas and other issues, parents and children both despised them.
The parents were not too happy about the price tag and the children did not like them since they were uncomfortable and hated to be called, “brace face” or “metal mouth” as many were. Kids can be mean, braces gave them all the power that they needed to strike that needless attack.
Other alternatives other than the traditional metal have been around for decades. Clear plastic versions, for example, are cemented onto the back of the teeth and not the front. That made them unseen to people. The clear braces were heavier, pricier and were more likely to cause mouth irritation since the brackets were close to the tongue.
So, What is Invisalign?
The traditional system was unsightly and the modern alternative caused mouth irritation. This resulted in cuts, infections and soreness. Fortunately, there is now another option that does not have all the metal and wires. This is called Invisalign.
Invisalign is a tooth straightening system that uses custom made aligners that steadily shift your teeth into its correct place. Theses aligners are made of comfortable, smooth and almost invisible plastic. It is worn over your teeth until the treatment is complete.
How Do They Work?
While using the traditional metal braces, the dentist had to make regular adjustments depending on your progress. The wires might have had to be tightened regularly to speed up the straightening process. Now that is not necessary with Invisalign. Instead of all the regular tightening, the wearer is given a new set of aligners when it is needed. Sometimes, every two weeks. All you have to do is simply put them on your teeth and wear them until they are straight enough and you need a new set of aligners.
Aside from the obvious creative advantages, Invisalign is functionally superior. With Invisalign you do not have to worry about food getting caught in the wires and brackets. Since the aligners can be removed, this system will let you eat your food without worring if something is stuck. Also you can brush and floss your teeth normally. The smooth finished plastic Invisalign trays will not cause irritation to your cheeks and gums like the metal ones often did.
Cosmetic dentists offer this as an option to their patients, since Invisalign does not need regular adjustments.
