Unlike metal braces that are permanently attached, Invisalign express is removable for oral hygiene, meals, and special occasions. You can also eat the foods you like without worrying about food restrictions, such as chewy, hard or sticky foods.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a clear orthodontic treatment that helps patients straighten their smiles without the inconvenience of traditional metal braces. Invisalign uses clear, removable aligner tray that are customized to each patient. They apply consistent pressure over a period of time to help move teeth into the proper position. The clear aligners can be removed easily for eating and cleaning. They are almost invisible.
While many people use Invisalign to correct crooked teeth, it can also help fix bite issues, tooth crowding, and minor overlapping. Invisalign can be a great alternative to metal braces for teens and adults who don’t like the look or discomfort of braces.
A common problem that Invisalign can address is crowded teeth, which occur when there isn’t enough room in the mouth for all of a person’s permanent teeth. Crowded or crowded teeth can make it hard to brush and floss. This can lead plaque, tartar, harmful bacteria, and tooth decay. Invisalign can help address most cases of crowded teeth, which improves oral health by making it easier to maintain a clean mouth.
Some patients may find it difficult to adjust to Invisalign. Since the aligners must be removed for eating and cleaning, some people may feel uncomfortable wearing them at social events. Others may have difficulty with the need to clean their teeth more than once a day, before putting in the aligners. It is important to keep in mind that these problems are temporary and can be minimized by following Dr. J’s instructions and maintaining regular follow-up appointments.
Invisalign is also used to close gaps in the teeth that can be caused by missing teeth, sports injuries or accidents such as car crashes. If gaps in teeth are not treated, they can grow over time and cause a crooked appearance.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign uses clear plastic tray aligners that can easily be removed for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing. They’re comfortable to wear and are a more discreet option than standard braces. They straighten teeth faster.
First, your dentist will scan your teeth using the iTero digital scanner to create a 3D image of your mouth. This allows them to create a custom treatment plan that will meet your specific goals.
A lab will fabricate your aligners based on this 3D design. The aligners are made from transparent thermoplastic which is BPA free and virtually invisible when worn. Each tray is slightly unique, and gently applying pressure to your teeth will gradually shift them into the desired position.
As your teeth move, you’ll swap out your trays for the next in the series. This may happen as often as every 1-2 weeks, depending on your specific case. Your doctor will monitor your progress to ensure you reach your desired smile.
How Much Does Invisalign Cost?
Check with your dental insurance provider before your initial consultation. Many dental insurance plans cover Invisalign in the same way they cover traditional braces. The insurance company may reimburse a certain dollar amount or a percentage of your treatment depending on the coverage you have. Some dental insurance plans have a lifetime cap on the amount that they will pay for Invisalign.
Inquire about any ongoing promotions or discounts. Orthodontic practices will often offer incentives for new patients. This can be an excellent way to save money on Invisalign.
Commitment to the treatment is essential for a successful Invisalign. Patients must wear the aligners between 20 and 22 hours per day, removing them only for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing their teeth. If the aligners are not worn according to these guidelines, they can slip and cause the treatment to be prolonged.
The cost of living can vary across the country and affect the price of Invisalign. Invisalign providers also typically charge more for their services in high-cost areas because of the cost of rent and paying qualified staff. Many dentists or orthodontists offer flexible payment options that spread out the cost for your Invisalign treatments over a certain period.
How Long Will Invisalign Take?
Using 3D imaging, complex images will be taken of your teeth to create custom trays designed to fit perfectly on your teeth. These trays will last the duration of your treatment. They are changed every 2 to 4 weeks. You will need a checkup at least every two to three weeks to make sure that your treatment is progressing according to plan and that you are wearing your trays correctly.
Invisalign can take up to one year to show results, but it can vary depending on the individual and how committed you are in wearing the aligners the required time each day. Some patients will experience faster results, particularly those who have simpler orthodontic issues such as minor tooth crowding. You will also see quicker results in younger patients because their teeth are softer and easier.
Food particles can get stuck inside your braces if you eat or drink a lot. This can lead to stains which could prolong your treatment. If you are prone to biting your nails, you should stop as this can cause your trays to break or become dislodged, slowing down your treatment.
Invisalign can be a popular option for closing gaps in between teeth, but it’s important to remember that this is a cosmetic solution. Gaps larger than 6mm cannot be closed by Invisalign and you may need to consider other options such as headgear or having some teeth removed. This is because Invisalign only applies a small amount of force to the teeth in order to close gaps.
Does Invisalign Work For Me?
If you’re an adult with crooked teeth, you’re likely a good candidate for Invisalign. This treatment is for adults, and is less visible than traditional braces. It can be used to treat a variety of orthodontic problems, including an underbite or overbite.
During your consultation, we will examine your smile and determine whether Invisalign is the right solution for you. We will then take impressions or digital scans of your mouth and create a customised treatment plan that includes a series of clear aligners. We will also provide you with a digital mock-up to show you what your smile will look like when your Invisalign treatment is completed.
The success of your Invisalign treatment will depend on how consistently you wear your aligners. You should wear them for 20 – 22 hours each day, removing them only when eating and drinking. If you remove them frequently, your treatment will be delayed.
You will also need to brush and floss regularly, as your teeth will be more exposed when you remove the aligners. If you don’t, your gums can become irritated or swollen. Before beginning Invisalign, talk to your orthodontist or dentist if you’ve had a history with periodontal disease.
Invisalign is effective in many cases, but it may not be the best option for more complex cases. For example, if you have an overbite or underbite that’s caused by the shape of your jaw bone, rather than the positioning of your teeth, it may be difficult to correct with Invisalign alone. These patients may need to use SmartForce attachments, or rubber bands, to help move their teeth into position.