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Orthodontics and The Technology Behind Invisalign Braces

You may wonder what goes on with your Invisalign braces between the time that your orthodontist takes impressions of your teeth for your clear braces and when you receive your first set of aligners.

State-of-the-art computer technology plays a vital role in the process of creating your Invisalign braces. In fact, Invisalign's high-volume, customized orthodontics manufacturing process is the first of its kind in the world.

Below are some of the ways advanced computer technology in used in the manufacture of Invisalign invisible braces.

• To ensure a high degree of accuracy throughout the process, your orthodontists take impressions of your teeth.
• Your orthodontics professional then sends Invisalign your dental impressions which are used to make plaster models of your teeth.
• Using advanced imaging technology, Invisalign transforms the plaster models of your teeth into a highly accurate 3-D digital image.
• From your approved ClinCheck® file, Invisalign uses laser scanning to build a set of actual models that reflect each stage of your dental treatment plan.
• Using the Internet, your orthodontists review your ClinCheck® file - if necessary, adjustments to the depicted orthodontics plan are made.
• A computerized movie - called ClinCheck® - depicting the movement of your teeth from the beginning to the final position is created.
• Your customized set of aligners for your Invisalign clear braces are made from these models, sent to your orthodontist, and given to you. You wear each aligner for about two weeks.
• After wearing all of your orthodontics aligners in the series, your crooked teeth are gone and you've got the beautiful smile you've always wanted.

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.

How Do I Take Care of My Dental Braces?

When your mouth is loaded with extras like bands, brackets, and wires, from your orthodontic braces, brushing your teeth gets tougher and extra important. Plus, dental braces interfere with the chewing process that normally bathes and exercises gums, and helps clean teeth. General dental care like caring for your teeth and keeping them cavity-free, is a top priority during orthodontics treatment.

While proper-fitting bands or brackets usually protect the covered portion of your teeth, the brackets and wires on the outside of teeth make it harder for proper dental care.

Trapped food particles and plaque are a breeding ground for cavity-causing bacteria in your dental braces. Gum disease also can develop, causing swelling and making cleaning even more challenging and painful. Improper dental care can also stain tooth enamel.

How Often Do I Need to Brush With Dental Braces?

It's best to brush within five minutes after eating anything, even if you're just snacking, and especially after a meal. Brushing away cavity-causing bacteria helps keep your teeth cavity-free. Carry a travel toothbrush in a backpack, purse or briefcase to always have on hand for brushing away from home.

How Do I Brush With Dental Braces On My Teeth?

• Brush between wires and gums to loosen any food particles that may have lodged in your dental braces. There are special toothbrushes for this, check with your orthodontist or dental care provider for recommendations.
• Start on the outside of your upper teeth, positioning the bristles at a 45 degree angle, toward the gum. Brush two to three teeth at a time using a circular motion, about ten strokes.
• Next, brush the inner surfaces in the same manner.
• Brush the chewing surfaces.
• Repeat the same process for the lower teeth as for the upper ones.
• Rinse your mouth as well as your toothbrush. Check your teeth in a mirror to make sure you've brushed all tooth surfaces.
• Floss daily between dental braces using a floss threader.
• Toothpicks, stimudents and other interdental devices work well under brackets.

You may also want to use a water oral hygiene device that helps to remove food particles from your dental braces that the toothbrush may not reach. It should be used in addition to brushing and flossing, not as a substitute for brushing.

While wearing dental braces for teeth, be sure to schedule regular dental care exams every three to six months for cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Ask your dentist and orthodontist how often they wish to see you.

By Brian J. Gray, DDS, MAGD, FICO

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.