Invisalign®

Invisalign® is a series of clear, removable aligners that both orthodontists and dentists use as an alternative to traditional metal braces. As of April 2008, more than 730,000 patients have completed or are currently in treatment. General dentists and orthodontists can perform the Invisalign procedures.

The aligners are fabricated by the computer, and the dentist will approve the movements. The dentists have limited control over the treatment planning process. Any dentist can sign up to become certified by Invisalign. The Invisalign certification process is a 1-day basic training in the Invisalign process and procedures. This means even a dentist who has no training in Orthodontics can perform this procedure.

Since there is more involved than just moving teeth, other areas of the body require adequate evaluation as well. The joints (temporomandibular joint and the spinal atlanto-occipital joint), muscles of the head and neck, the posture, and the teeth all need to all be evaluated along with a complete orthodontic work up, which would require evaluation of the airways, and x-rays of the head and neck, including lateral cephalometric x-rays with tracings, and panorex x-rays.

Making sure your dentist has the proper Orthodontic training as well as Invisalign and occlusion training is the key to the success of your case.