Traditional braces as we know them first became available in the 1970s. And for years, they were the only option for straighter teeth. In the early 2000s, a group of graduate students from Stanford University developed Invisalign®, a brand of clear braces that has since revolutionized the way people think about modern orthodontics in Sacramento and beyond.

If you’re looking for the latest orthodontic treatments in the greater Sacramento, CA area, including clear braces, schedule a consultation with Dr. Markham at Markham Orthodontics. Dr. Markham stays updated on the latest advancements in orthodontic technology, as he is committed to offering the best, most comfortable solutions available to his Sacramento patients. Call us today to speak to a member of our staff at our Gold River location (916) 635-5400, Natomas location (916) 924-8970, or Auburn location at Maidu Dental (530) 823-8771.

Invisalign was metal-free.

Invisalign was the first orthodontic solution that contained no metal brackets, wires, or other components. This not only greatly improved its aesthetic benefits and patient comfort, but helped to provide peace of mind for those patients with metal allergies or sensitivities.

Invisalign was comfortable.

Today’s metal braces are much more comfortable than the older models from decades past. This means that the monthly band tightening is not as painful as it used to be. However, Invisalign further increased patient comfort by offering a system that didn’t require any bands. Aligner trays are switched out every two weeks, on average, which makes the gradual shifts in straightening power less pronounced than traditional braces.

Invisalign was removable.

Invisalign retainers can be taken out for up to four hours per day. This flexibility allows patients to remove aligners for eating, brushing, flossing, and any important events they wish to be “orthodontic-free” for. Many patients find this aspect of Invisalign to be the biggest benefit; Invisalign patients don’t feel “locked in” to orthodontics the way they may feel with traditional braces.

Invisalign was discreet.

The name of Invisalign says it all: Invisalign’s nearly invisible alignment trays are probably one of its most well-known features. When wearing aligners, patients display a natural-looking, unobstructed smile that does not immediately display orthodontic treatment. This feature is especially popular with adult patients who may want to straighten their smile, but want to maintain a more professional, natural smile.

Invisalign was fast.

Invisalign’s average treatment time is about half that of traditional braces. 12 months is the amount of time most patients can expect to wear Invisalign aligners, compared to 24 months or more with traditional braces.

Invisalign was easier to clean.

Braces are rather notorious for trapping food particles in between the hard-to-reach areas of wires and brackets. Special brushes or picks are often needed for patients to properly clean their teeth after meals. In addition, trapped food particles can cause yellowing, staining, and other issues with brackets and natural tooth enamel. Since Invisalign aligners are removed for eating and drinking and lack the small nooks created by metal wiring, patients are able to remove aligners to clean their teeth normally when receiving Invisalign treatment.

Revolutionary Treatments Close to Home

If you are looking for a straighter smile in Sacramento, CA, Markham Orthodontics is proud to offer Invisalign treatments at our three locations across the Sacramento area.

Request an appointment today to start your journey toward a straighter smile!