INVISALIGN
Clear aligners like Invisalign® have grown in popularity recently because people want to look good while having orthodontic treatment done. Invisalign gives you another more aesthetic option to straightening your teeth. No more metal brackets and braces!
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment protocol that relies on custom-fit plastic trays called aligners to shift teeth into their ideal positions. These aligners can be used to correct the vast majority of the issues addressed by conventional metal braces, including underbites, overbites, and crossbites.
Not only are the aligners virtually invisible, they are also removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment. They are also more comfortable than traditional braces. Invisalign treatment allows you to view your virtual treatment plan when you begin so you can observe how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.
How long does treatment take?
You will be required to wear each set of aligners for 1-2 weeks, taking them off just to eat, drink, brush, and floss. As you substitute each aligner with the next in the series, your dentition will shift — bit by bit, month by month — until they have straightened to their final positions. You'll visit our dental office about once every 3-6 weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned. When you total it up, the treatment time averages 9 to 14 months and the average number of aligners worn during treatment is between 19 and 29 months, but both will vary from case to case.
Invisalign® highlights
- Aligner trays made of very comfortable, BPA-free and smooth, transparent plastics.
- Your dental provider can use radiographs, pictures, and impressions to create an accurate 3-D image of your teeth and to configure your aligner trays accordingly.
- No metal brackets or hardware on the teeth
- You can brush and care for your teeth as normal
- Virtually clear/invisible braces
- Ability to eat all foods, no restrictions
How does Invisalign® treatment work?
Treatment begins with a series of impressions and measurements which are sent to the lab where the aligners will be made. The impressions, or molds, and measurements are fed into a computer which recreates 3D models that acts as a visual aid on how the teeth need to move over time to come into alignment. These models serve as the basis for the dental aligners. The number of models – and the number of aligners – varies from patient to patient. During the duration of treatment, each aligner will be worn for about two weeks before being “traded in” for the next aligner in the series. Changing aligners every 1-2 weeks helps to keep teeth moving in the right direction. Office visits take place about every 3-6 weeks, and most procedures can be completed within two years or less – sometimes even less than a year.
Why Invisalign®?
Not only are the aligners virtually invisible, but they are also removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment. They are also more comfortable than traditional braces, with no metal or wires, which means you require less time to be spent in your doctor's office getting adjustments. Invisalign treatment also allows you to view your virtual treatment plan when you begin so you can observe how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.
How do I care for my teeth when wearing Invisalign retainers?
Oral care is much easier with Invisalign vs traditional braces as it can be removed to brush and floss. It's also easier to eat because you have to remove them to eat or drink anything but water.
Is Invisalign® right for me?
Invisalign® is right for most adults who desire to have straighter teeth and a brighter smile. They are virtually invisible, are comfortable to wear, and offer the convenience and flexibility not found with other types of braces. And, just like traditional braces, Invisalign® treats many dental issues, including the following:
- Crooked teeth
- Gapped teeth
- Spaced teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Scissors Bite
If you think you might be interested in Invisalign as a way to straighten your teeth and give you a beautiful smile you have always wanted, please schedule your consultation with Dr. Guilford. He will evaluate your overall smile and provide you with your options.
What is the Cost of Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment using Invisalign is customized for each and every client. Because of this, the cost of Invisalign varies with each patient’s treatment plan.
Dr. Guilford is a certified Invisalign provider and can provide a consultation and evaluation offer consultation to determine if Invisalign will correct your dental issues. Following his assessment, Dr. Guilford will answer all of your questions including those about prices, payment, and financing options. Our team is here to help you determine whether your dental insurance will cover the costs associated with Invisalign and will even file claims on your behalf.
Scheduling a consultation and evaluation is the best way to learn if Invisalign is the best choice for specific alignment issues.