SANTA CLARA, Calif., June 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Orthodontic treatment has come a long way since the days of heavy metal wires and brackets, bulky headgear and the associated "nerd factor." Today's teenagers get more than straight teeth at the doctor's office -- they get fashion accessories.

Image-conscious teens can now choose from a wide range of options to straighten their teeth while maintaining their "cool factor," including tooth-colored or clear brackets; rainbow-colored wires and bands; or nearly invisible, removable appliances called Invisalign.

Invisalign patients wear a series of clear, removable plastic Aligners instead of wires and brackets. Patients wear each set of Aligners for about two weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. As the patient replaces each set with the next in the series, their teeth move incrementally until they reach the final position prescribed by their doctor.

Invisalign offers many benefits for busy teens (and their busy parents):

• Patients only visit their doctor once every six weeks or so to ensur that treatment is progressing as planned, and to receive their next few sets of Aligners.
• Since the Aligners are comfortable and durable, they fit in well with teen activities such as band and sports - activities that can be challenging or uncomfortable with traditional metal brackets.
• Invisalign also has oral hygiene benefits, primarily because teens can remove the Aligners for brushing, flossing and routine cleanings.

Invisalign's near-invisibility is still the most popular feature for teens; treatment is very inconspicuous, making it easier for teens to "fit in" rather than call attention to their treatment. According to a Journal of Orthodontics (2002) study of teen decisions regarding braces, "being like everyone else" is of great importance to teens.

"Invisalign is really easy to get used to," said Tyler Hansen, a fifteen year-old patient in California. "I wear my Aligners all the time -- even playing baseball. I can't even tell they are on, and no one else can either."

With Invisalign and the wide range of more visible treatment options, teens can choose the option that is best suited to their personality and personal style -- to "blend in" or "stand out" while straightening their teeth.

To find out more about Invisalign treatment, visit www.invsalign.com.

SOURCE Align Technology, Inc. 06/21/2004

CONTACT: Shannon Henderson, +1-678-417-1767, for Align Technology, Inc.

Web site: http://www.invisalign.com