When Invisalign was first introduced, it was created with only adults in mind. That was because teens and pre-teens were still growing, and there were concerns the aligners (clear plastic trays that are worn) would not keep up with the final growing stages of childhood. After many years of orthodontists telling teens they “weren’t candidates†for treatment with Invisalign, the company made tremendous efforts to allow for teeth that were not fully erupted (grown into place), as well as allowing for slight underbite or overbite corrections. That’s how Invisalign Teen came into being almost two years ago. It allows for 12 year old molars to be aligned, eye-teeth to drop into place, and overbites and underbites to be corrected. So if you were told you “weren’t a candidate†for Invisalign because you were a Teen, come see us! We have a wonderful treatment option for you!!! View our commercial below to learn more:
How DOES Invisalign Work?
By Dr. David Carter
The Invisalign and Invisalign Teen process is possibly the highest form of orthodontic technology I have seen. The first step is we take a very EXACT model (impression) of your teeth. We then send these models to Invisalign, and they create a 3-D model that is then sent back to me over secure internet. I then take the 3-D model and actually TREAT the teeth in VIRTUAL REALITY (so to speak). Once I’ve completed the treatment, I send the treated 3-D models (called a “ClinCheckâ€) back to Invisalign. They have a patented process that creates a series of clear plastic trays (called “alignersâ€), that moves the teeth over a two week period of time. Each aligner slowly and comfortably moves the teeth just like braces. The obvious difference is that they are REMOVABLE so you can take them out to eat whatever you want! And they can be removed for easy brushing and flossing. And all YOU have to do is wear each aligner about 20 hours per day. They’re so comfortable you really won’t even notice that they are IN!
Daring to be Different
Dr. David Carter is a second-generation orthodontist who has managed to make room for a successful practice, lots of family time and giving back to the community. Dr. Ben Burris recently spoke with him about his early years inpractice, his dedication to a balanced life, and how he’s built his career on doing things differently. Read More…
Invisalign Success Stories
It’s been a few weeks since I’ve updated everyone on my Invisalign progress. It has pretty much been the same news – changing out Invisalign aligners every two weeks and going to see Dr. Carter at Carter Orthodontic Solutions every 6-8 weeks for ClinChecks and new sets of aligners.
During my last visit, two more attachments were placed on my bottom front teeth. I had thought that I was done with attachments, but to my dismay there were two more in my future. The last time I had Invisalign attachments, it was painful because of my receding gums. So I was a little worried about this. I joked with the technician that I wish that they gave laughing gas or some kind of drug beforehand so I wouldn’t be so uptight. But I was worried for nothing! It didn’t hurt a bit. I’m just guessing but I’ve noticed less pain in this area since these teeth have straightened up. Maybe it’s the straightening, or maybe it’s because I can keep them cleaner. I don’t know. But I was thrilled that this Invisalign visit was pain-free! And the new attachments are causing my bottom front teeth to become even straighter!
I’m so excited that I’m past the half-way mark. The technician showed me on the computerized 3D model that the space between my two front teeth should start closing up starting with the 15th set of Invisalign trays. That’s two more weeks! You can view the computerized model that she showed me here: Computerized 3D Invisalign Model
The rubber band that I’ve been wearing has seriously corrected my overbite. It can be a bit annoying because I can feel it rub the inside of my cheek. But I’ve been saying all along, “No pain, no gain.” A rubber band rubbing the inside of my cheek versus a serious overbite? I choose the rubber band!
I’ve searched for other Invisalign blogs to show you other people’s progress with Invisalign. It is amazing how quickly your smile can change. I have so enjoyed being able to laugh and smile lately without thinking about my goofy teeth. Here are some other Invisalign success stories:
Straight Teeth Journey
Sharon’s Invisalign Adventure
Thy’s Invisalign Journey
Please let me know if you have questions! I’d be glad to answer them! ~ Melissa
Stars Wearing Invisalign
Katherine Heigl
Katherine Heigl, who is most known for her character as Izzy Stevens in the hit drama series Grey’s Anatomy, is one celebrity that has worn Invisalign to straighten her teeth. She is married to Josh Kelley, a singer/songwriter from Augusta, GA. In preparation for her wedding, she decided to do Invisalign because she wanted straight teeth in her wedding photos.
Gisele Bündchen
Victoria’s Secret spokesperson Gisele Bündchen told Elle magazine her beauty secrets which included wearing Invisalign!
http://www.elle.com/Beauty/Beauty-Spotlight/SUPERMODEL-SECRETS
Here is a video with a TV news reporter wearing Invisalign on camera:
It’s been widely rumored that Tom Cruise and even Oprah have worn Invisalign (Rumored, since no one could tell they had them on!). Invisalign is not just for the rich and famous. Everyone deserves a beautiful smile. Call Dr. Carter today (706.650.0468) to schedule a Free Invisalign consultation or Click Here to schedule an appointment online.