Benefits of Invisalign® Over Traditional Braces

Benefits of Invisalign® Over Traditional Braces

There are many orthodontic options available to patients seeking a more uniform smile. Depending on the severity of your misalignment, your budget, and personal preferences, you can choose between several orthodontic methods to straighten your teeth.

If you’re looking to improve the alignment of your smile, you might be debating between metal braces and Invisalign. Dr. Lai can help you determine the right method for you.

What Is Invisalign? 

Invisalign® clear braces are a modern orthodontic method that involves straightening your teeth with clear aligners. A series of aligners are used to gradually shift your teeth into their proper place, helping you achieve a straighter smile with less noticeability. Each Invisalign tray is customized for a comfortable fit, and the clear plastic material allows you to correct misalignment discreetly.

When Is Invisalign the Right Treatment Method?

For adults wanting to correct mild forms of misalignment Invisalign has many benefits. Traditional metal braces consist of brackets affixed to the surface of the teeth, using wires and rubber bands to guide teeth into the correct positioning. Many patients find this to be a cumbersome method, and prefer the convenience of the removable trays provided with the Invisalign system.

Invisalign isn’t the best orthodontic option for every case, however. Those with more significant malocclusion are better suited to start treatment with traditional braces for optimal results. A consultation with Dr. Lai will help you determine the right method for you.

Other Benefits of Invisalign 

Invisalign comes in the form of clear aligners, which allow you to remove them when necessary. Although it will be required for you to wear your aligners for a minimum of 22 hours per day, you will still be able to remove them to eat and brush your teeth.

You won’t have to worry about food piling up in between your braces or stains that may appear from brushing around metal. Instead, you can work toward a straighter smile with all of the benefits that discretion has to offer.

Call Today to Learn More!

Dr. Lai and our dedicated team enjoy helping our patients throughout Corona achieve the smile they’ve always desired. Call us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about Invisalign clear.

The Modernization of Cosmetic Dentistry

Porcelain teeth had become extremely popular by the 1800’s. It was around this time that these ceramic replacements were finally brought to the U.S., resulting in a booming dental economy. The first dental school in America was established, along with the Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree (DDS). By the mid to late 19th Century, ceramic crowns were permanetly used as an alternative to traditional gold fillings. By the early 1900’s, dentures were crafted from advanced materials such as plastic and acrylic, which are still utilized today.

Here’s a glance at how cosmetic procedures became what they are today:

Teeth Whitening- Although variations of this method had been around thousands of years, it wasn’t until the 20th century that hydrogen peroxide was used as the active ingredient for lifting stains.

Laser Teeth Whitening- Surprisingly, laser dentistry has been around since the 1960’s, however, these procedures were performed for gum disease management only. The FDA eventually approved laser dentistry for cosmetic purposes such as whitening, decay removal, and gum contouring.

Dental Implants- Past remedies were often unsanitary and extremely uncomfortable. A Swedish doctor in the 1950’s changed the medical field when he discovered that titanium fuses to the natural bone, and can be applied throughout the body universally. As a fix for missing teeth, implants are surgically placed into the jaw, so the bone and post may fuse to create a strong, stable foundation for a restoration.

Veneers- These porcelain shells were invented in the 1930’s as a temporary fix for movie stars with aesthetic issues. Denture adhesive was used to hold the veneers in place, but it did not last very long. In 1982, a new technique was developed, allowing dentists to permanently bond porcelain veneers to teeth. Today’s veneers are sturdy, durable, and can last over a decade when properly cared for.

Present-Day Advances

With today’s advanced technology, dentists are now able to combine cosmetic and restorative techniques to provide state-of-the-art tooth repair management as well as address and correct dental imperfections.

It is now possible to achieve a completely natural-looking smile with dental implants and to receive enamel-colored dental crowns within a day. Teeth whitening, dental veneers, and dental implants are now standard aesthetic treatments that can be performed successfully with long-lasting results.

Consider James Lai Dentistry for Your Progressive Treatment

If you are interested in how your overall appearance can be enhanced with our comprehensive cosmetic treatments, call or visit James Lai Dentistry in Corona today.
Our experienced dentist, Dr. James Lai can help you attain a luminous smile that lasts a lifetime.