Invisalign®
Invisalign® aligners prove that effective orthodontic treatment doesn’t have to be difficult. These ingenious appliances have helped millions straighten their teeth and achieve better-looking smiles, and they can help you too.
Invisalign® aligners are an effective and discreet orthodontic treatment option worn comfortably over your teeth to continuously adjust alignment and spacing.
Invisalign® aligners are custom-made using models of your current teeth and the result you hope to achieve. With Invisalign® aligners, you will switch to new aligners about every two weeks with each set shifting the teeth slightly—this continues until you have achieved your final results.
You remove the Invisalign® aligners for eating, drinking, and cleaning only. At first, they will feel very tight, but they will begin to loosen and feel more comfortable after a few days.
We are proud to be a platinum Invisalign® provider! We have earned this distinction due to the high-quality Invisalign® treatment we offer our patients. Use the link below to schedule a consultation with one of our expert dentists.
Schedule an Invisalign® ConsultationInvisalign®: More Than Just
Straightening Teeth
Invisalign® provides more benefits than just straight teeth. Here are some of the extra benefits:
- Improved oral hygiene: Since there are fewer spaces for food particles and plaque to accumulate, straight teeth are easier to clean. Proper brushing and flossing become more effective, reducing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
- Reduced risk of tooth damage: Uneven wear can be caused by misaligned teeth and put excessive stress on certain teeth, making them more susceptible to chips, fractures, and other damage. Straight teeth distribute the forces of biting and chewing evenly, reducing the risk of dental trauma.
- Better digestion: Straight teeth help in proper chewing, breaking down food into smaller particles, which aids digestion. Inadequate chewing, caused by misaligned aligned teeth, can lead to digestive issues and potentially affect overall nutrition.
- Reduced jaw pain and headaches: Crooked teeth can contribute to jaw misalignment, leading to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which often result in jaw pain, headaches, and even neck and shoulder discomfort. Straightening teeth can alleviate these symptoms and improve jaw function.
- Enhanced speech and pronunciation: Properly aligned teeth can improve speech clarity and pronunciation. Misaligned teeth, especially those affecting the position of the tongue, can make it difficult to produce certain sounds correctly.
- Improved overall health: Overall health is closely linked to oral health. Straight teeth and a healthy mouth can reduce the risk of health issues such as cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections, and complications during pregnancy.
It is important to note that orthodontic treatment, which includes options like braces or clear aligners, can play a significant role in achieving a straighter smile and improve the listed health benefits. If you find yourself worried about the alignment of your teeth, contact us at keith + associated to assess your situation and provide appropriate recommendations.
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How does the Invisalign® process work?
To begin, we will take photographs of your teeth and face, dental impressions of your teeth, and x-rays. Those records are sent to Invisalign® with detailed instructions on how we want the final result to appear. Invisalign® will scan the impressions to create a 3D model of the teeth and work with your dentist to get the mold to its exact proportions. Once final, the trays are made and mailed to your dentist’s office. You will wear a set of trays for one to two weeks during your treatment. The total length of treatment usually takes around 6-9 months but may be shorter or longer in some situations. You’ll have a good idea of how long your treatment will last when you first meet with your dentist.
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Invisalign® vs. braces—what's the difference?
Invisalign® and braces are both orthodontic treatments designed to straighten teeth and correct bite issues, but they differ in several key aspects.
Appearance: Invisalign® consists of clear, removable aligners that are virtually invisible when worn, making them a discreet option for straightening teeth. Braces, on the other hand, use metal brackets and wires attached to the teeth, which are more noticeable.Comfort: Invisalign® aligners are made of smooth plastic, which tends to be more comfortable than the metal brackets and wires of braces. Braces may cause irritation or discomfort, especially in the initial stages or during adjustments.
Removability: One significant advantage of Invisalign® is that the aligners are removable. This means you can take them out for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, allowing for easier maintenance of oral hygiene. Braces are fixed onto the teeth and cannot be removed until the treatment is complete.
Treatment Duration: The length of treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case, but generally, Invisalign® treatment may be completed in a shorter time frame compared to braces. However, this can vary depending on individual needs and compliance with treatment guidelines.
Effectiveness: Both Invisalign® and braces are effective at straightening teeth and correcting various orthodontic issues, including crowding, spacing, overbite, underbite, and crossbite. The choice between the two often depends on the specific needs and preferences of the patient, as well as the recommendation of the orthodontist.
Cost: In terms of cost, the price of Invisalign® treatment may be higher than traditional braces, although this can vary depending on factors such as the severity of the case and the length of treatment required. Some dental insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost for both treatments.
Ultimately, the decision between Invisalign® and braces depends on factors such as the patient’s orthodontic needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Consulting with an orthodontist can help determine the most suitable treatment option for achieving the desired results.
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How much does Invisalign® cost?
The cost of Invisalign® aligners is similar to traditional metal braces. The overall cost of the treatment depends on various factors, including insurance coverage and the length/complexity of the treatment.
Most insurance plans cover Invisalign® aligners in the same way as metal braces, but coverage for cosmetic reasons may vary. The cost can also vary depending on the number of aligners needed for your specific treatment plan.
If you have any questions about financing options, please don’t hesitate to contact our office. We’ll be happy to discuss your insurance coverage and explore additional payment options that may be available to you.
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Who can use Invisalign®?
Invisalign® is a popular orthodontic treatment that can be used by most teens and adults to correct mild to moderate dental issues. It can help patients with crooked or misaligned teeth, noticeable spacing problems, and even minor bite issues. However, it’s important to note that Invisalign® may not be suitable for all orthodontic issues, and more extensive problems may require alternative treatments.
