Invisalign Specialist

Thomas Hernandez, DDS -  - General Dentist

Heritage Dental

Thomas Hernandez, DDS

General Dentist & Cosmetic Dentist located in Tomball, TX

If you’ve put off traditional orthodontic treatment due to the long-term commitment, consider Invisalign®. Invisalign treatment uses advanced technology to correct both simple and complex orthodontic issues, without interrupting your lifestyle. General dentist Thomas Hernandez, DDS, at Heritage Dental in Tomball, Texas, is a Silver Invisalign provider who regularly prescribes this orthodontic treatment for adults and teenagers. To schedule an appointment, call the office and speak with a friendly team member or book a consultation online today.

Invisalign Q&A

What is Invisalign®?

Invisalign® is a relatively new orthodontic treatment method that uses a series of clear, nearly-invisible plastic trays to gradually straighten and align your teeth.

Unlike metal braces, there are no wires or brackets involved. This means you can still enjoy the activities and foods you can’t live without. Additionally, treatment with Invisalign is more gentle and comfortable than braces, so you can achieve your desired results with less pain. 

What conditions can Invisalign correct?

At Heritage Dental, Dr. Hernandez usually prescribes Invisalign to correct mild or moderate alignment issues, including:

  • Crooked teeth
  • Crowded teeth
  • Misaligned jaw
  • Open bite
  • Underbite
  • Overbite

You might also benefit from Invisalign if you have visible gaps or spaces between your teeth.

How does Invisalign treatment work?

Invisalign treatment begins with an in-office consultation at Heritage Dental. During your appointment, Dr. Hernandez conducts a thorough oral exam and asks about your goals for treatment. Afterward, he takes digital impressions of your teeth and gums. 

The impressions upload to a software program where Dr. Hernandez maps out the step-by-step movements of your smile. After approving your care plan, he sends your digital impressions to a laboratory that manufactures your first set of aligners.

Throughout treatment, you wear your aligners for 20-22 hours each day. Every two or three weeks, you visit Heritage Dental and change into a new set of Invisalign aligners. Each set of aligners places slight pressure on your teeth.

Following treatment, you will transition to a retainer. A retainer is a custom oral appliance. It prevents your teeth from shifting or reverting to their original position.

How long does treatment with Invisalign take?

The length of Invisalign treatment depends on your unique orthodontic issues and their severity. Most people achieve their desired results in nine to 15 months, but it may take longer. Be patient and follow Dr. Hernandez’s instructions carefully. 

You should also clean and care for your aligners. Rinse your trays in cool tap water throughout the day to prevent the buildup of plaque or food particles. At night, before going to bed, clean your aligners with toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush. For more thorough cleanings, ask Dr. Hernandez about the Invisalign Cleaning System.

To learn more about the benefits of orthodontic treatment with Invisalign, schedule an appointment at Heritage Dental. Call the office and speak with a friendly team member or book a consultation online today.