How Invisalign Has Changed in the Last Decade

Over the last 10 years, Invisalign has become the most well-known name for the clear plastic aligners that allow you to straighten your teeth without wearing bulky metal braces.

Millions of teenagers and adults have taken advantage of the new technology to build a better smile without others knowing.

The idea of clear plastic aligners was itself a revolutionary advance in orthodontics, but even since Invisalign was introduced, improvements have continued to be made. Here are four ways Invisalign has changed in the last decade, courtesy of your expert Invisalign team at Portrait Dental.

Better digital scanning

Invisalign makes use of clear, plastic aligners to shift your teeth to their correct position over time. You replace each set of trays every two weeks with a new set that moves them further. The goal is to wear the trays 22 out of 24 hours — you can take them out to eat, brush your teeth, and for special occasions. 

Each package of trays is manufactured specifically for your mouth based on a digital scan your dentist or orthodontist completes at your first appointment. In the early days, aligners didn’t all fit correctly, but now the system includes the state-of-the-art iTero scanner to create a precise 3D scan of your current smile and map out the plan for your new smile.

Based on this scan, your trays will be custom-built for you with a specific plan based solely on your situation.

SmartTrack corrections

Invisalign trays are not made from just regular plastic. Over the years, Invisalign has moved to a proprietary SmartTrack thermoplastic that has improved the fit and comfort of the aligners. This makes it easier for you to remove and insert them.

Because the SmartTrack plastic fits your teeth better, it also allows for better control over the movement of your teeth. This lets Dr. Minh Nguyen set up more complex teeth movements to provide better results. 

Optimized attachments

Depending on the condition and placement of your teeth, you may need more advanced movements to create your ideal smile. This may require attachments on your teeth. They used to be big and bulky, but Invisalign now has smaller and sleeker optimized attachments that can be customized to allow specific tooth movements. They also lead to shorter treatment times.

Treatment for all ages

When Invisalign first came on the scene, it only worked well for adults. Over time, it has evolved to also serve teenagers and even younger children. One reason for this is the creation of Invisalign mandibular advancement treatment, which includes side wings between your premolars and first molars. This solves the common overbite problem in teens by slowly bringing their lower jaw into alignment with their upper jaw. 

A newer system called Invisalign First also treats younger kids by improving their jaw and arch before their adult teeth fully erupt.

If you’re considering Invisalign treatment, our team at Portrait Dental would be happy to serve you. To set up a consultation, call our office in Katy at 501-381-1621 or book a convenient time with our online scheduler.