Dr. Michael McCarty of Austin Smiles, is a leader provider in “Invisalign” – a revolutionary and virtually invisible way to improve your smile. “I am very excited about this technique, as I believe it improves the quality of a person’s life while enabling them to keep their current lifestyle,” explains Dr. McCarty.

Invisalign is an attractive alternative to traditional metal dental braces, as the clear aligners are discreet and unnoticeable while the patient is performing the treatment.

Not only is Invisalign attractive, it is also more comfortable than traditional metal braces. The edges of the aligners are smooth, and because they are replaced every two weeks to adjust your teeth in small increments, they apply less force per week and less pain than do traditional metal braces, which apply more force because they are only adjusted approximately every six weeks. They are also removable, allowing you to eat, drink, brush and floss with no interference.

This innovative treatment was introduced 11 years ago, and as of April 2008, more than 730,000 patients have already completed or are currently in treatment.

Dr. McCarty offers an initial free consultation to new clients to determine if this treatment is for you. “We discuss your specific issues, learn what your goals are, and then decide on the best treatment for your individual case.”

If Invisalign addresses your needs, a customized treatment plan will be mapped out. Dental impressions, x-rays and photographs of your teeth will be taken and sent to a lab. There, using advanced computer-imaging technology, a 3-D model of your teeth will be created, and custom software will simulate the movement of your teeth in stages.

Dr. McCarty will then work with you to refine the simulation and make sure the treatment is right for you. “We review the movement of your teeth throughout the entire treatment process, and watch a virtual representation of the progress of your teeth so you can see what your smile should look like before, during and after the treatment.”

After your precise treatment plan is approved, customized, clear plastic resin aligners are created for you to wear at each stage of the treatment. The aligners are usually replaced by the next in the series every 2 weeks, and a full set treatment typically includes 20-30 aligners per arch.

You will return to Austin Smiles for progress checks and to receive your next set of aligners. During the process, you will be able to observe your teeth gradually moving into place. Average treatment time is about one year, depending upon the complexity of the treatment.

“Invisalign is a perfect example of how modern technology can aid medicine in very practical ways – it is a great leap forward and offers a great alternative to traditional methods,” concludes Dr. McCarty.