Dr. Peter Tzendzalian, DDS
Kristin Tzendzalian
Giving BackInvisalign®
If you’ve been considering orthodontic treatment but hesitate at the thought of traditional metal braces, Invisalign ® may be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Dr. Peter A. Tzendzalian (Dr. T) helps patients across Durham, NC, straighten their teeth with clear, removable aligners that fit seamlessly into everyday life. With his expertise and the unique advantages of our technology, you can look forward to a sneak peek of your new smile before your treatment even begins.
- What is Invisalign® and How Does it Straighten Teeth?
- Who is a Good Candidate for Invisalign®?
- Expected Timeline for Treatment
- Clear Aligners vs. Traditional Braces: Pros & Cons
- Simple Care Tips to Follow During Your Invisalign® Journey
- Find Your Beautiful New Smile
- Schedule a Consultation Today
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is Invisalign® and How Does it Straighten Teeth?
Invisalign® treatment uses clear aligners, sets of removable plastic trays that gently shift your teeth into their ideal positions. Dr. T utilizes the very latest in align technology to map out your treatment, starting with a scan of your teeth using the iTero scanner. That scan allows our team to design a custom treatment plan that fits the case complexity of your case.
Through gradual tooth movement via a series of plastic trays (also called a set of aligners), Clear aligners straighten teeth without the need for metal braces or traditional metal brackets. These trays are nearly invisible, so you have a discreet alternative to unsightly braces.
Who is a Good Candidate for Invisalign®?
If you want plastic aligners rather than traditional braces, prefer something that is removable, or desire minimal visibility, clear aligners may be right for you. Good candidates typically:
- Have mild to moderate misalignments, crowding, gaps, or bite issues
- Are committed to the required wear time (often around 20-22 hours per day)
- Want to maintain excellent oral care throughout treatment
- Prefer fewer visits and less discomfort than what can come with traditional braces
Dr. T also assesses more complex cases—thanks to his years of experience—and while some severe orthodontic issues traditionally required metal braces, many can now be addressed or improved with Invisalign®, depending on the complexity of your case. During your consult, he’ll review whether your case is mild, moderate, or more severe, and whether this is a suitable option.
Expected Timeline for Treatment
Treatment times vary based on individual alignment needs. For many adult patients with mild to moderate misalignments, the Invisalign ® process takes between 9 and 18 months. For more complex cases, or when significant tooth movement is needed, it may take a bit longer.
Dr. T’s use of modern aligner technology and detailed case planning often helps keep treatment times efficient. Your customized plan will include a schedule, wear instructions, and projected treatment times tailored to your specific needs.
Clear Aligners vs. Traditional Braces: Pros & Cons
Choosing between Invisalign® aligners and traditional metal braces depends on your goals, lifestyle, and the complexity of your case. Here are some key points to consider:
Advantages of clear aligners
- Nearly invisible plastic aligners create a discreet alternative to unsightly braces
- Removable aligners make eating, brushing, and flossing much easier than with metal brackets
- Smooth design offers greater comfort, with no wires or sharp edges rubbing against cheeks
- Easier to maintain excellent oral care throughout treatment
- iTero scanning technology eliminates the need for messy impressions
Considerations compared to traditional braces
- Aligners must be worn for the recommended wear time (20–22 hours per day) to stay on track
- You’ll need to keep up with replacing your set of aligners as treatment progresses
- More complex cases may still require traditional metal braces to achieve certain results
- Aligners can be misplaced or damaged if not stored properly when removed
Dr. T will carefully review the specific needs of your smile and explain whether Invisalign® or traditional braces will deliver the best long-term results for your oral health.
Simple Care Tips to Follow During Your Invisalign® Journey
Taking care of your aligner trays is simple and essential for maintaining good oral health throughout your treatment.
- Follow the prescribed wear schedule (typically about 20-22 hours per day) to ensure proper tooth movement.
- Clean your trays daily, brush and floss thoroughly; oral care is crucial to avoid stains or decay during treatment times.
- Keep them in their case when eating or drinking to prevent loss or damage.
Attending regular check-ups in our Durham office is crucial so Dr. T can monitor progress, make adjustments as needed, and ensure best practices are followed.
Find Your Beautiful New Smile
Choosing Invisalign® aligners offers a discreet alternative to traditional braces. It combines appearance and function, especially for adults who want to enhance their smile without noticeable metal. While traditional metal braces still have their place, Invisalign® shines for many who want treatment that fits into their lifestyle, looks discreet, and maintains excellent oral health throughout.
Contact Aesthetic Oral Health in Durham, NC, to schedule your appointment and begin your Invisalign ® journey today! Take a step toward a new, beautiful smile by calling us at 919-402-9200!
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you’re a patient in the Durham, North Carolina and Research Triangle area considering teeth whitening services, you’ve come to the right place. Our team, led by Dr. T, combines expertise and personalized care to give you the top-quality results you deserve. Schedule your consultation today for a radiant smile tomorrow.
