Invisalign Express is a shorter-duration orthodontic treatment that works in the same way as traditional Invisalign aligners. It is an ideal option for people with minor crowding or spacing issues — including issues that occur from orthodontic relapse — and for those who require teeth straightening before undergoing restorative or cosmetic procedures.
Whereas a traditional Invisalign treatment requires 20 to 30 aligners to move teeth into the correct position, Invisalign Express is specifically designed for people whose crowding or spacing problems can be corrected in 10 stages of aligners or less. As a result, the length of time required for treatment is only about six months.
Are You a Candidate for Express?
Invisalign Express is designed to quickly correct simple orthodontic problems. Therefore, certain clinical criteria must be met, including:
- Less than two mm of spacing or crowding per arch
- Minimal rotation of the cuspids, bicuspids and incisors
- Less than two mm of midline correction required
- Less than 1.5 mm of dental expansion required per arch
If crowding, spacing or malocclusion (bad bite) issues are more complex, then a more traditional option might be a more appropriate orthodontic treatment. Your dentist will determine the treatment plan that’s right for you.
Be advised that many cases require removal of tooth structure between the teeth (called interproximal reduction, or manicuring) to create space. Some cases also may require attachments be added to the teeth to create a better fit and control of individual teeth.
Advantages
During treatment, you can keep up your active lifestyle and smile during social activities. What’s more, because the aligners are easy to remove, they promote better oral hygiene, as well as a pain-free experience with less irritation to the gums and mouth.
During treatment, teenagers can keep up their active lifestyle, play sports and smile during social activities. Traditional braces often carry a stigma of being unattractive and noticeable, leaving teens feeling self-conscious and afraid to smile.
What’s more, traditional wire and bracket braces present challenges for proper brushing and flossing, contributing to food and plaque build-up in the mouth. Because Invisalign Teen aligners are easy to remove, they promote better oral hygiene, as well as a pain-free experience with less irritation to the gums and mouth.
Whereas traditional braces also can require emergency visits to the dentist to fix a broken bracket, Invisalign Teen provides six extra replacement aligners in case others are lost or misplaced.