Tampa Invisalign Specialist Dr. Hess Introduces Invisalign Teen

(PRLEAP.COM) March 16, 2009 – Tampa Invisalign provider Dr. Hess recently added Invisalign Teen to his list of alignment options for younger patients.

The clear plastic aligners are designed to address the needs of younger patients and are equipped with compliance indicators to ensure the aligners are worn properly.

"Previously, standard braces were the only option for children under age 15," Tampa braces specialist Dr. Hess said.

Invisalign Teen addresses several issues related to children and braces. The custom-made aligners are designed to accommodate the continued natural eruption of the permanent teeth, he said.

Blue compliance indicators on the aligners fade over time with continued use. Because the aligners can be easily removed for hygiene purposes and for special events, there may be temptation among patients not to wear them as often as they should, Hess said. The compliance indicators help the orthodontist- and the parents- determine whether the aligners are worn properly.

Hess likes the improved hygiene for patients, which is a feature commonly mentioned by proponents of removable aligners. Patients can brush and floss their teeth properly without any brackets, wires or bands obstructing them. This promotes healthier gums and can discourage plaque, gum disease and tooth decay.

The Invisalign Teen process begins with Hess creating a 3-D computerized model of the patient’s teeth. This model will depict the teeth in their current state and how they will appear after treatment is completed.

The Invisalign aligners are made of a high-quality, medical grade plastic and they essentially are invisible when worn. The aligners are similar to a retainer. However, instead of holding teeth in proper alignment like a retainer, Invisalign Teen aligners gradually reposition the teeth.

The patient receives three sets of aligners at each orthodontic visit, and each aligner is worn for approximately two weeks before switching to the next one. This process continues, along with orthodontic visits about every six weeks, until the teeth have reached their final alignment.

The Invisalign Teen treatment period varies from nine to 18 months.

So far, parent and patient response for the new Invisalign Teen product has been good.
"People seem to be excited about it once they hear it is an option," Hess said. "They like the idea that they may not have to have braces on their teeth.

Learn More
If you live in Tampa, FL, or if you would like to learn more about braces or Invisalign in Tampa please call: (813) 645-4377 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hess, or visit his Web site for more information: www.hessorthodontics.com.

About Dr. Michael Hess
Dr. Hess is an accredited orthodontist, meaning he has completed an advanced post-doctoral course, accredited by the American Dental Association, of at least two academic years in the specialty of orthodontics.

He graduated from the University of Florida College of Dentistry in 2001 and received his masters in orthodontics from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. He has been in private orthodontic practice since June 2004.

He is dedicated to creating outstanding smiles for his patients by using the latest technology available.

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