Summerland Invisalign Dentist showing Invisalign Braces

INVISALIGN IN GOLETA

Metal braces can be bulky and uncomfortable, but crooked, overcrowded teeth need to be corrected to prevent oral health issues. Dr. Walter Dukes, provide Invisalign® as a discreet alternative to traditional braces.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign orthodontic treatment uses a series of specially designed clear aligners to straighten teeth. When used one after the other, these aligners will continue your orthodontic treatment by applying the necessary pressure to properly straighten teeth. Computer imaging and bite impressions of your mouth are used to prepare the Invisalign aligners to meet your specific needs.At our practice, serving patients in Goleta and surrounding communities, the progress these virtually invisible braces achieve will be continuously monitored by either Dr. Dukes. This will ensure you receive the most beneficial effects and optimal results. Invisalign aligners are custom molded to fit snugly against your teeth for an appearance that is hardly noticeable. Many people will not even know you have anything in your mouth, unless you tell them. Invisalign aligners should generally be worn at all times, except during meals. The number of aligners used depends on your individual needs, and the duration of treatment can be expected to be less than traditional braces.
Traditional Braces vs. Invisalign
Although traditional metal braces are still one of the more common types of orthodontics chosen today, there are many downsides to consider when debating Invisalign vs. traditional braces, including:

  • Food restrictions
  • Irritation to soft tissue, such as mouth sores
  • Potential for lip and gum lacerations
  • Potential damage to the front surface of teeth
  • Noticeable appearance
  • Difficulty cleaning teeth and gums effectively

Invisalign trays are clear, comfortable, and virtually invisible, providing an excellent solution for adult patients interested in discreetly realigning their smile. Each tray should be worn for at least 22 hours a day, but can be removed for easy cleaning and eating, so you can still enjoy all your favorite foods. Trays can also be removed for a special event, such as an important presentation, wedding, graduation, or class reunion. Because you receive all the aligner trays upfront, follow-up appointments are required less often than with traditional braces.

Why a Straighter Smile is Important

When teeth are misaligned, the condition can make it difficult to keep teeth adequately cleaned. Even if you follow a disciplined oral health care program, teeth that overlap or are crooked can easily trap food and bacteria. This can lead to plaque buildup, tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. Misaligned teeth can also cause improper jaw placement, which can lead to jaw clenching, teeth grinding, poor nutrition, TMJ disorder, and pain in your neck and shoulders.

Straightening your smile not only provides many aesthetic and emotional advantages, but it can protect the long-term health of your teeth and body. Research has proven that the health of your smile can affect your overall physical health. When tooth decay and gum disease are left unchecked, it not only leads to tooth loss and costly restorative procedures, but it can lead to an increased risk of diabetes and heart disease. A straighter smile equals a healthier body.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Invisalign

By choosing to realign your smile with Invisalign at our Santa Barbara practice, you can:

  • Achieve a straighter, healthier, more beautiful smile
  • Prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and TMJ disorder
  • Improve your self-confidence and quality of life
  • Achieve a youthful appearance
  • Improve your oral health and dental function

Despite its many benefits, Invisalign is not right for everyone. Most notably, the orthodontic option may not be appropriate for certain types of bite issues and severe malocclusion. During a consultation, we will make your treatment goals our number one priority. If your doctor does not feel that Invisalign trays can provide the absolute best results, we will discuss your options. Today’s braces are more comfortable and often feature more discreet materials, such as tooth-colored brackets and clear wires. 

Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. Dukes

If our Goleta Invisalign treatment is of interest to you, please contact us at 805-335-6780 today, we can set up your original consultation. Dr. Walter Dukes helps teens and adults in the surrounding Goleta communities, including Montecito, Summerland, and Santa Barbara.