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In January 2006, Dr. Malkemus began writing dental health articles for The Community
Voice newspaper. He wanted to give back to the community and share his passion for
health, as well as his observations of the remarkable planet around us. Current
and past articles are provided here. To view his articles as they appear, see the
Health, Beauty, and Fitness Section at www.thecommunityvoice.com.
Other Resources
Invisible Braces
Invisible Braces
By George A. Malkemus D.D.S.
Invisible braces are wonderful new option of orthodontics. Amazing advances in computer technology have allowed the development of teeth straightening without metal bands, wires and brackets. If you have ever wanted to easily and comfortably improve your smile, now is the time to ask your dentist about Invisalign, the brand name of the invisible braces. A few general dental offices, such as mine, and many orthodontic offices are certified to use Invisalign technology. Not every patient is a candidate for Invisalign; sometimes, traditional braces are necessary. But Invisalign is very effective in many tooth-straightening cases.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is the invisible, removable, comfortable way to straighten teeth without braces. Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth, without metal brackets or wires.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign uses 3-D computer imaging technology to depict the complete treatment plan from the initial position to the final desired position from which a series of custom-made, clear aligners are produced. The doctor will use the series of aligners over the course of treatment to correct the positioning of a patient’s teeth. Invisalign aligners move teeth through the appropriate placement of controlled force on the teeth. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.
What are the primary benefits of Invisalign?
* Invisalign is clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.
* Invisalign is removable. Unlike braces, you can eat and drink what you want during treatment. You can also brush and floss normally to maintain good oral hygiene.
* Invisalign is comfortable. There are no metal brackets or wires to cause mouth irritation, and with the elimination of metal brackets and wires, you spend less time in the doctor's chair getting adjustments.
* Invisalign allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan before you start—so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.
What do aligners look like?
Aligners are made of clear, strong medical grade plastic that is virtually invisible when worn. Aligners look similar to tooth-whitening trays, but are custom-made for a better fit to move teeth. Some orthodontists and dentists have referred to them as "contact lenses for teeth."
Is this a new way to straighten teeth?
For years, orthodontists and dentists have used removable appliances for limited treatment. Today, with the application of computer technology and custom manufacturing, Invisalign treats a broader range of cases with greater precision. Align Technology, Inc., the company that manufactures Invisalign, was founded in 1997.
How can Invisalign aligners improve the health of your gums?
Teeth that are crowded or too widely spaced can create unhealthy conditions, including swollen gums, redness, bleeding, and gum pocketing, all of which are signs of periodontal disease. Clinical studies have shown that gum health may improve with the use of Invisalign during orthodontic treatment. Properly aligned teeth can help gums "fit" tighter around each tooth, as well as make cleaning the teeth more effective.
Why is Invisalign easier to clean than traditional braces?
Invisalign aligners should be removed to both eat and clean your teeth. Unlike traditional braces, with Invisalign, you can brush and floss normally. Invisalign has no metal bands or wires, like traditions braces, to trap food and plaque. Maintaining a good oral hygiene program will also reduce chances of plaque buildup, tooth decay and periodontal disease.
How Can Orthodontics Improved Chewing and Speech?
For some people, incorrectly positioned teeth and jaws can exacerbate speech difficulties and chewing problems. Correcting your bite by straightening your teeth can help improve both. Properly aligned teeth can lower the risk of trauma and abnormal wear by reducing the stress on supporting bone and jaw joints.
Does Invisalign hurt?
No! At each new aligner, patients tend to feel slight pressure in the teeth that are moving. The slight sensitivity generally stops after 72 hours of new aligner wear.
What is the process for invisible braces?
1. An Invisalign Certified Orthodontist or Dentist evaluates and creates a program of treatment. Photos and impressions of your teeth are taken.
2. A CT scan (Computed Tomography or CAT scan), is made from your dental impressions. The CT scan produces an extremely accurate, 3-dimensional digital model of your teeth.
3. CAD (Computer Aided Design) software is then used to simulate the movement of your teeth during treatment.
4. Your doctor reviews, modifies, and approves the treatment plan before the aligners are created.
5. Invisalign then uses advanced stereolithography (SLA) technology to build precise molds of your teeth at each stage of your treatment.
6. Individualized, custom-created clear aligners are made from these models and sent to your doctor's office.
7. You'll wear each aligner for approximately two weeks. Your doctor will monitor your progress until you have a wonderful smile.
8. Aligners are worn 24 hours a day [except for eating, brushing or flossing] for 6 to 18 months, depending on the difficultly of your case.
9. When the treatment is finished, a retainer is worn to keep the teeth in their new straight position.
Invisalign technology allows comfortable tooth straightening that was only a futuristic dream a few years ago. State-of-the-art advances in dental science and technology are amazing. The 21st Century computer age is definitely upon us.
Enjoy Life and Keep Smiling!
George Malkemus has had a Family and Cosmetic Dental Practice in Rohnert Park for over 22 years at 2 Padre Parkway, Suite 200. Call 585-8595, or email info@ malkemusdds.com. Visit Dr. Malkemus’ Web site at http://www.malkemusdds.com
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