Dr. Pearson Is a Certified Invisalign™ Provider

Who is suitable for Invisalign treatment?

Invisalign can be used to treat the majority of non-growing adolescents and adults with fully-erupted molars. It works for a wide range of people whose teeth are too crowded or have spaces between them, as well as for those whose teeth may have shifted after having worn braces in their youth.

How does Invisalign work?

Upon an initial examination, Dr. Pearson will decide if Invisalign is right for you. Impressions of your teeth, X-rays and photos will be submitted to Invisalign along with Dr. Pearson's prescribed treatment plan. Using the latest advances in 3-D computer technology, Invisalign carefully translates the doctor's instructions into a series of precisely customized aligners. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two to three weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until you've achieved the intended result: straighter teeth. Generally, you visit the office no more often than you would with braces and the length of treatment is about the same if not shorter. Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible and look similar to clear tooth-whitening trays, but are custom-made for a better fit to move teeth. They are like contact lenses for teeth. Invisalign aligners move teeth through the appropriate placement of controlled force on the teeth. The principal difference to braces is that Invisalign not only controls forces, but also controls the timing of the force application. At each stage, only certain teeth are allowed to move, and these movements are determined by Dr. Pearson's treatment plan for that particular stage. This results in an efficient force delivery system.

If a tooth is very round in shape or requires complex movement then an almost invisible bump, known as an attachment, is temporarily bonded onto the specific tooth. This procedure causes absolutely no pain or discomfort and helps the aligner to grip the tooth and move it into position. In some complex cases elastics and other adjunctive methods may also be considered.

How long does Invisalign take to complete treatment?

Typically the treatment duration is similar to braces. An average time frame is around twelve months but could take less than six months. More complex cases could take up to two years. The degree of changes required to obtain the smile you are seeking will determine the number of aligners required, and the number of aligners determines the duration of treatment. Fortunately, unlike braces, the duration of treatment can be determined before treatment starts simply by viewing the simulated computerized movements of your teeth in less than a few minutes. During treatment we will schedule regular appointments - usually about once every six to eight weeks. This way you can be sure the Invisalign treatment is progressing as planned.

Is Invisalign treatment painful?

No! Most people experience temporary, minor discomfort for a few days at the beginning of each new stage of treatment. This is normal and is typically described as a feeling of pressure. It is a sign that Invisalign is working, sequentially moving your teeth toward their final destination. This discomfort typically goes away a couple of days after you insert the new aligner in the series. Compared to traditional braces, which can sometimes be very painful, Invisalign is virtually pain free. In order to create space, if it is needed to straighten your teeth, some polishing of teeth may be required (typically less than 0.4 mm). This has no detrimental effect on the teeth.

Will Invisalign affect my speech?

Like all orthodontic treatments, aligners may temporarily affect the speech of some people, and you may have a slight lisp for a day or two. However, as your tongue gets used to having aligners in your mouth, any lisp or minor speech impediment caused by the aligners disappears. Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, drinking, brushing and flossing (about twenty-two hours of wear per day).

Will Invisalign affect the types of food I can eat?

No! Unlike traditional wires and brackets, you can eat whatever you desire while in treatment because you remove your aligners to eat and drink. Thus, there is no need to restrict your consumption of any of your favorite foods. However, a diet that is high in sugars and involves frequent snacks should be avoided. Also, it is important that you brush your teeth after each meal and prior to re-inserting your aligners to maintain proper hygiene.

Will my teeth remain straight after Invisalign treatment is completed?

In order to prevent your teeth moving after treatment is completed you should wear a retainer. Your retainer will be a clear appliance similar to your Invisalign aligner.

Is special training needed to do Invisalign treatment?

Only an orthodontist who has been trained and certified can treat using Invisalign. Dr. Pearson is Invisalign certified and is a leading provider in Staten Island.