Invisalign Specialist

Healing Smiles

Sandra C Onukwugha, DMD

General and Cosmetic Dentistry located in New Brunswick, NJ

If you want to correct misaligned teeth or straighten your smile, but you’re put off by the idea of a mouth full of metal brackets and wires, Invisalign® might be an excellent option for you. At Healing Smiles in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Sandra Onukwugha, DMD, and the team offer Invisalign treatments as a convenient alternative to traditional metal braces. Call Healing Smiles or schedule an appointment online today to learn how Invisalign treatment can correct your smile.

Invisalign Q & A

What is Invisalign? 

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, virtually invisible aligners to move your teeth into their proper positions. The smooth, comfortable plastic trays fit over your teeth and are replaced every two weeks until the treatment is complete. Dr. Onukwugha monitors your progress throughout your treatment period to ensure that it is on track.

What are the benefits of Invisalign? 

Invisalign is a convenient option if you want to correct your smile but don’t want to wear traditional metal braces. Some of the advantages of Invisalign include: 

Design 

Invisalign aligners are clear and thin, virtually invisible while you wear them. You can smile confidently during and after treatment, and no one will notice you’re having orthodontic treatment. 

Maintenance 

Unlike traditional metal braces, you can take your aligners out to brush and floss your teeth after eating. Additionally, you don’t have the same food restrictions that traditional braces require. 

Comfort 

Teeth straightening with Invisalign is more comfortable than traditional braces. You may feel some pressure when you change your aligners, but this subsides within a few days. The aligners are smooth and don’t irritate your cheeks or gums. 

Treatment length 

The average length of treatment with Invisalign is case-based. Following a full assessment, a more accurate timeline can be determined. Invisalign treatment typically can take less time than traditional braces to correct your alignment. 

Am I a good candidate for Invisalign? 

Dr. Onukwugha evaluates your teeth, bite, and gums to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for Invisalign. Invisalign can correct alignment issues including: 

  • Gaps between teeth 
  • Overlapping or crowded teeth 
  • An overbite or protruding upper teeth 
  • Crossbite, underbite, or open bite 

If you have severe alignment issues, Dr. Onukwugha may recommend an alternative treatment option.

How does Invisalign work? 

Healing Smiles begins Invisalign treatment with an evaluation. They take X-rays, pictures, and impressions of your teeth. They use this information to create a customized treatment plan and to design your aligners, which are custom-made to fit your teeth precisely. 

Invisalign treatment progresses in stages. Every week to 10 days, you replace your aligner trays. Each new set of aligners brings the teeth closer to their proper alignment. You need to wear your aligners for at least 22 hours each day, 7 days a week, removing them only during eating and cleaning. 

Call Healing Smiles today or schedule a consultation online to learn more about Invisalign treatment and how the team can correct and enhance your smile.