How Invisalign Changed Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment has come a long way from the days of metal braces dominating every smile. The introduction of Invisalign in 1997 revolutionized the field, offering a discreet, comfortable, and effective solution for straightening teeth. At Broad Street Braces in Philadelphia, PA, we are proud to provide this groundbreaking option to patients looking for an alternative to traditional braces.

The History of Invisalign

Invisalign was created by Align Technology, a company co-founded by Zia Chishti, a Stanford graduate with no formal orthodontic background. Chishti, who had worn braces himself, envisioned a better way to straighten teeth using clear plastic trays. With the help of computer-aided design (CAD) and 3D printing, the company developed a system of clear aligners that could progressively shift teeth into alignment.

After its launch in 1997, Invisalign gained FDA approval and quickly gained attention as a revolutionary alternative to metal braces. By the early 2000s, it had become a game-changer for both orthodontists and patients, offering a modern, minimally invasive solution for a wide range of dental issues.

How Invisalign Transformed Orthodontic Treatment

Invisalign changed the way people view orthodontic care by addressing many of the concerns associated with traditional braces. Here’s how:

1. Discreet Appearance

One of Invisalign’s most significant contributions is its clear, virtually invisible aligners. This innovation allows patients—especially adults and teens—to straighten their teeth without the stigma of visible metal brackets and wires.

2. Enhanced Comfort

Invisalign aligners are made from smooth, BPA-free plastic, eliminating the discomfort of sharp edges and protruding wires. Unlike traditional braces, which can cause irritation to the inside of the mouth, Invisalign offers a more comfortable fit.

3. Improved Oral Hygiene

Traditional braces require meticulous care to prevent food from getting stuck in wires and brackets. With Invisalign, aligners are removable, making it easy to brush, floss, and maintain good oral hygiene throughout treatment.

4. Fewer Office Visits

Invisalign aligners are customized to fit your teeth and are designed to be changed every 1–2 weeks. While periodic check-ups with your orthodontist are still necessary, the need for frequent adjustments is significantly reduced compared to metal braces.

5. Versatility in Treating Orthodontic Issues

Initially, Invisalign was only recommended for mild to moderate alignment issues. However, advancements in technology now allow Invisalign to treat a wide range of cases, including overbites, underbites, crossbites, gaps, and crowded teeth.

The Invisalign Process

At Broad Street Braces, we use advanced 3D imaging to map out your Invisalign treatment plan. This digital approach allows us to create a precise sequence of aligners that will gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. Each aligner is worn for about 20–22 hours per day and changed every 1–2 weeks, with treatment times typically lasting 12–18 months.

Broad Street Braces: Your Invisalign Specialists

At Broad Street Braces in Philadelphia, PA, we’ve witnessed firsthand how Invisalign has transformed orthodontic care. It has opened the door for countless patients to achieve straighter, healthier smiles without the challenges of traditional braces. Since its conception, many other companies have followed Invisalign with other clear aligners, such as the Spark Clear Aligner System.

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, schedule a consultation today to learn how Invisalign or Spark Clear Aligner System can work for you. Let us help you take the first step toward a confident, beautiful smile!