For many adults, the dream of having a perfect smile seems out of reach. Years beyond what seems to be the acceptable age to have braces can leave people feeling self-conscious about their teeth — even to the point of not giving an authentic toothy smile in pictures. Some surveys suggest that as many as 68% of adults are self-conscious about their natural smile.

While traditional metal braces are the standard go-to solution for orthodontic treatment, they often come with a significant drawback: metal brackets and wires that can make many adults and even some teens hesitant to undergo treatment. Fortunately, a cutting-edge alternative has become so advanced that it can treat nearly all types of malocclusions once only treatable with braces — Invisalign. This innovative system offers an effective, discreet, and comfortable way to straighten teeth without compromising your appearance.

Read on to discover how Invisalign compares to standard braces, if you’re a good candidate, and where to find the best dentist for Invisalign treatment in Valencia and Santa Clarita.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign is a revolutionary orthodontic treatment that uses a series of custom-made, clear aligners to gradually shift teeth into their desired positions. These clear aligners are made of smooth, medical-grade plastic that is virtually invisible when worn, allowing you to straighten your teeth discreetly. 

The treatment process begins with a 3D dental imaging of your teeth, which creates a personalized treatment plan and a series of aligners. During Invisalign treatment, you'll wear each set of aligners for about two weeks, removing them to eat, drink, brush, and floss. As you progress through the series of aligners, your teeth will gently and gradually move into their final, improved positions. The treatment length varies depending on your case's complexity, but most people achieve their desired results within 12 to 18 months.

Who is a Good Candidate for Invisalign?

It's common for our patients to wonder, “Is Invisalign right for me?” You’ll be happy to know that Invisalign is a versatile treatment option that can address many orthodontic issues — making it suitable for many people. 

Generally, good candidates for Invisalign are adults and teens who have mild to moderate orthodontic issues, such as: 

  • Crowded teeth
  • Gaps between teeth
  • Misaligned bites, including overbites, underbites, and crossbites
  • Open bites, where the upper and lower teeth don't meet when the mouth is closed
  • Rotated or tilted teeth
  • Slightly protruding front teeth
  • Minor relapses after previous orthodontic treatment

However, more severe cases may require traditional braces or additional orthodontic treatments, such as palatal expanders, retainers, or other dental appliances. 

Another thing to consider before deciding if Invisalign is right for you is the commitment to wearing the aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours daily. This requires patients to be disciplined and motivated to follow the treatment plan closely. It's also important to have good oral health habits, as tooth decay or gum disease may disqualify you from treatment or delay your treatment. 

How to Properly Care for Invisalign Clear Aligners 

Proper care and maintenance of your Invisalign clear aligners is important to ensure the best possible outcome and maintain good oral hygiene throughout the process. Key steps to remember include:

  • Brush your aligners gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and specialized toothpaste that comes with them every morning and evening — and whenever you remove them to eat or drink.
  • Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water each time you remove them to prevent bacteria and plaque buildup.
  • Always remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water to prevent staining and damage.
  • Brush and floss your teeth after each meal or snack before putting your aligners back in to maintain good oral hygiene.
  • Store your aligners in their protective case when not in use to prevent loss or damage.

These minimal steps are necessary to keep your Invisalign clear aligners clean, fresh, and effective throughout your treatment. Santa Clarita’s top Invisalign dentist may have additional recommendations based on your personal needs.

Where to Find the Best Invisalign Dentist in Santa Clarita

At SoCal Dental of Valencia, we understand the importance of a confident smile and its impact on your personal and professional life. This inspires our team of skilled dentists to stay committed to helping you achieve the straight, healthy smile you deserve through Invisalign clear aligners.

As a leading Invisalign provider to Valencia and Santa Clarita residents, we offer customized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs and goals. Our state-of-the-art technology and expertise ensure a comfortable, efficient, and effective orthodontic experience for patients in Santa Clarita, Valencia, and the surrounding areas.

In addition to Invisalign, our leading providers, Dr. Danny Aframian, Dr. Homan Shamoeil, and Dr. Sherry Solouki, provide a full range of dental services, including preventive care, restorative treatments, and cosmetic enhancements. We strive to create a welcoming, patient-centered environment where you can receive the highest-quality care for all your dental needs.

Ready to start your journey to your dream smile with clear aligners from the best Invisalign dentist in Santa Clarita?