Orthodontics is an area of dentistry that deals
with straightening teeth and correcting irregular bites (also
known as malocclusion). This is accomplished through the use
of what are known as corrective appliances, including braces
and retainers.
There are two phases to orthodontic treatment,
the active phase and the retention phase. The active phase involves
the use of braces to move the teeth into their new position
and the retention phase involves the use of a retainer to keep
the teeth in place.
Traditional or standard orthodontics involves bonding brackets on teeth, placing a wire through the provided openings in the brackets and securing them via rubber bands. The metal wire exerts subtle pressure on the teeth to make them move. Usually traditional orthodontics take between 6 months to 6 years depending on the severity of the case.
Contemporary orthodontics involves the use of "invisible" or clear
appliances. One of the biggest motivations to choose this method is that it eliminates the “metal mouth” of traditional braces. The obviousness of traditional metal braces is a prominent reason why adults refuse to have their teeth straightened. In most cases, other people will not even be able to tell that you are wearing the clear retainers. Due to this discreetness, Invisalign has become particularly popular with adult patients.
Invisalign® has been proven effective in clinical research and in orthodontic practices nationwide. The technology has become so much of a treatment standard that over 70% of U.S. Board Certified Orthodontists are now providing it as a alternative treatment to traditional metal braces.
Invisalign® orthodontics can be used by young and older adults alike. The use of clear, invisible braces is an attractive alternative to traditional treatment that typically uses metal or ceramic braces. They are very comfortable and effortless to use. The problems of potential discolorations of tooth enamel that are common with regular braces are eliminated.
How it Works: 
System uses advanced 3-D computer imaging technology to transform the bite impressions Dr. Pike has made into a custom-made series of clear and removable aligners. There may be as many as 48 in the series or as few as 12, depending on your individual treatment plan.
You'll wear each set of aligners day and night for about 2 weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. You'll visit with Dr. Pike only about every 6 weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned.
