The versatility of invisible braces, provided and installed by an Invisalign orthodontist, continues to grow in popularity, allowing more patients to achieve a straighter smile without permanent orthodontic hardware. With the use of attachments, buttons, and elastic, a broader range of conditions can be corrected using this popular Invisalign system.
An evaluation by one of our expert orthodontists will reveal if you are a candidate for the use of attachments, setting you on the path to a healthy smile and proper bite alignment. To better understand the use of these tools, let’s define the terminology and explore the benefits of combining attachment technology with the Invisalign retainer system.
What Are Invisalign Attachments?
As part of your treatment plan, small dots of dental bonding material may be applied to the surface of your teeth using a template. These attachments fit securely into the Invisalign aligner trays and keep certain teeth stationary or provide a leverage point for movement.
Your plan might also make use of Invisalign buttons, which provide a place to attach elastics. These buttons are small plastic or metal brackets which serve as anchor and leverage points to increase tooth moving power.
There is no drilling involved and, after treatment, the buttons can be removed, and the attachments can be cleanly polished off. All attachments are of tooth-colored material to maintain the almost invisible quality of Invisalign braces.
Who Needs Attachments?
Certain types of reparative movement are difficult to attain with aligners alone. By adding attachments, more patients can take advantage of their orthodontist’s Invisalign technology. Using the attachments to grip a tooth firmly, more serious malocclusions can be corrected.
This combination of methods not only creates straighter teeth, but allows for better bite alignment, and ultimately a more beautiful smile. Consistently wearing your retainer for the recommended amount of time after treatment will be key in maintaining long-term results. Consistency and commitment are especially important when choosing Invisalign for teens.
Are Invisalign Buttons and Attachments Noticeable?
Because the attachments are made of material designed to match your natural tooth color, they blend into your smile seamlessly. Similarly, buttons are not likely to be set on front teeth and are thus barely noticeable in your smile.
What Extra Care Is Needed?
• Remove Regularly. The attachments will purposefully improve the fit of the aligner, causing it to fit more snugly. This means they will require more effort to remove. A special tool may be needed to pop off the aligner.
• Brush Well. The buttons and attachments unfortunately provide a place for food to lodge, and hot liquids like tea might stain the attachments. Take extra care when brushing your teeth before replacing your retainer.
• Wear Consistently. The importance of adhering to the recommended wearing times cannot be overstated. Having the ability to remove your aligner is a plus for many, but also enhances the possibility of leaving it behind or forgetting to put it back in.
Invisalign Treatment with Labbe Family Orthodontics
Our dedicated teams in Annapolis, Bowie, Crofton, and Greenbelt are highly skilled Invisalign orthodontists who can bring the latest in attachment technology to your treatment plan. Even if you’ve been told in the past that Invisalign is not for you, schedule a consultation with us and let us find the right solution for your smile.
We take pride in providing you and your family with the best possible experience in orthodontic care. Life is better with a smile! Give us a call or fill in our contact form today to feel the difference for yourself.
