Orthodontics & Invisalign Specialist

What are the benefits of orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the dental specialty concerned with correcting misaligned teeth. The most obvious effects of orthodontics are cosmetic. Over time, orthodontics will give you a nicer smile, which helps with self-esteem. However, there are additional benefits beyond an improved appearance to having straighter teeth.

Orthodontics also has long-lasting positive effects on your oral health. As simple as it sounds, you can more easily brush and floss straight teeth, and considering that good hygiene is the best way to prevent oral health problems, that alone makes a big difference. Orthodontics is an excellent way to take care of your teeth in the long run.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign clear aligners are an alternative Dr. Arora offers to traditional metal braces for adults and older teens. Invisalign straightens teeth using a series of clear plastic trays custom molded by Dr. Arora that are nearly invisible and cause minimal discomfort. If you wish you had straighter teeth but don’t want people to know you’re wearing braces, Invisalign might be perfect for you.

For many common dental issues, both simple and complex, Invisalign is an effective treatment. Left untreated, these issues can lead to tooth decay, chronic pain, and gum disease. Invisalign may correct a variety of problems, including:

• Overcrowded teeth because there’s not enough space for them to align properly
• Gaps resulting from missing teeth or abnormal jaw growth
• Crossbite, where one or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth
• Overbite, where the upper teeth project farther than the lower teeth
• Underbite, where the lower teeth project farther than the upper teeth

On top of being discreet, Invisalign doesn’t interfere with your everyday life nearly as much as traditional metal braces. You may remove the aligners to eat, drink, floss, and brush your teeth. You also don’t have to worry about the aligners cutting or irritating the inside of your mouth, as braces often do.

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

Invisalign treatment usually lasts around a year, but can be as short as nine months or as long as 18 months. You’ll wear each aligner for one to two weeks and come in to the office every four to six weeks so Dr. Arora can make sure you’re progressing as planned. Once your Invisalign treatment is complete, you’ll wear a retainer daily for the first few months and then at night.

To learn more about how orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign, can help you improve your smile, schedule an orthodontic consultation with Dr. Alok Arora, DMD, by calling his San Mateo County office in Menlo Park, California, or by using the online booking feature.