What Is Invisalign®?
Millions of people have smiles that include crowding, gaps, or another type of “dental misalignment,” such as an underbite, overbite, or crossbite. These bothersome concerns can mar the beauty of a smile and be the cause of functional issues. At Saco River Dentistry, we offer an innovative treatment that can help straighten teeth with greater comfort and discretion than ever before. Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligner trays that can gradually shift the position of the teeth. As a result, these “braces” are well concealed and can be taken out to eat, drink, brush, floss, and for special occasions. Our experienced cosmetic dentists can help you determine if this procedure is right for your needs and goals.
- Invisalign Candidates
- What Invisalign Can Do for You
- Invisalign Vs. Braces
- Invisalign Teen
- How Invisalign Works
- Invisalign Results
- Invisalign Cost
- Invisalign FAQs
Who Is a Good Candidate for Invisalign®?
One of the many benefits of Invisalign is its ability to address a wide range of concerns, making it appropriate for most patients. If you suffer from gaps, crowding, overbite, underbite, or crossbite, Invisalign can often help. During your initial evaluation, our dentists will review your needs and goals to determine if Invisalign is right for you. Original Invisalign is ideal for adults, and our adolescent patients have their own personalized option in Invisalign Teen.
What Can Invisalign® Do for My Smile?
Curious how Invisalign can transform your smile? Take a look at how the clear braces system could potentially transform your smile by trying the simulation tool available on the Invisalign mobile app! All you have to do is use your smartphone or tablet to scan our QR code, which takes you to the app; then take a picture of yourself smiling. This image will be sent to our team, and within seconds the SmileView™ technology will simulate what results you may be able to achieve if you choose to start the Invisalign process.
How Does Invisalign® Compare to Braces?
Invisalign offers numerous benefits, and both teens and adults can utilize this treatment to straighten their teeth. Some of the advantages of Invisalign include:
- Tailor-made to comfortably and precisely fit your teeth
- Removable to allow for easy eating and oral care
- Typically more comfortable than metal or ceramic braces
- Free of metal, wires, and brackets
- Fewer dental appointments required for adjustments
- Virtually unnoticeable
If you’re trying to decide between traditional metal braces and Invisalign, there are many reasons to consider this innovative new approach. In addition to being unnoticeable and removable, treatment time often is shorter than with braces. Teens have their own version designed just for their unique needs. While Invisalign is not right for everyone, and each case must be determined based on the individual’s anatomic needs and desired outcome, it can help correct many issues that previously required braces.
What Is Invisalign® Teen?
Invisalign Teen is just like Invisalign, except it is made to suit the special orthodontic needs of adolescents. If you have a teenager who needs bite correction or has misaligned teeth, Invisalign Teen offers a more comfortable and inconspicuous approach to teeth straightening than traditional braces. Metal-free parts and removable aligners also add to this treatment’s appeal. Everyone loves a beautiful smile, and with Invisalign Teen, your child no longer has to sacrifice to achieve that stunning grin.
How Does Invisalign® Work?
At our practice, your care is always our first priority. When you arrive for your initial consultation, one of our dentists will examine your teeth, discuss your concerns, and develop a customized treatment plan. To provide the most precise fit and optimal outcome possible, we will begin by taking an impression of your bite. From this mold, a series of clear aligners will be fabricated to achieve your goals step-by-step. Each tray is designed to reposition your teeth a small amount, progressively shifting each tooth into the final location. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks before moving on to the next one in the series. You should remove the appliance for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing; however, it should be kept in place as much as possible at all other times for the most effective results and briefest treatment time.
How Long Does Invisalign® Take?
Just as your smile is unique to you, so too will be your treatment plan. Most patients can achieve the discussed outcome in about 9 to 15 months. Depending on your singular needs, that estimate may be longer or shorter. Our dentists will provide a more specific timeframe during your visit. While Invisalign is not appropriate for every patient, this procedure can address a wide range of mild to moderate alignment issues, and it may be able to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
How Much Does Invisalign® Cost?
The price of Invisalign is often comparable to traditional metal braces. The cost of treatment can vary depending on your individualized treatment plan and particulars. Our patients typically pay around $6,100, although your program may differ. We will review the total cost with you at your initial consultation so you are well-informed before starting treatment. To help keep costs down, we recommend wearing your aligners diligently as directed and taking good care of your oral health with regular brushing and flossing. For more information, including details on orthodontic financing, please reach out to our team.
Additional Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
How Noticeable Is Invisalign®?
One of the primary benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are designed to be nearly imperceptible while worn. This enables patients to undergo orthodontic treatment in a more discreet fashion than traditional metal braces allow for. In most cases, people will likely not notice that you are wearing your aligners unless they are looking very closely or were made aware in advance that you were being treated with Invisalign.
What Can I Eat and Drink With Invisalign®?
Since Invisalign aligners are designed to be removed while you are eating and drinking, there are virtually no food or drink restrictions associated with the treatment. That said, we often recommend that patients avoid particularly sticky or sugary foods, as these can leave a residue on your teeth that can then negatively impact your aligners. For optimal results, we recommend brushing your teeth regularly and thoroughly rinsing off your aligners anytime you remove them, as this helps remove food particles, saliva, and other debris.
Can I Chew Gum With Invisalign®?
It is best to avoid chewing gum while wearing your aligners, as the sticky substance can become stuck inside of them, leading to increased bacterial growth and potential staining of your aligners. If you do want to chew gum, we recommend opting for a sugarless variety and removing your aligners while you chew it. However, it is important to keep in mind that your aligners should be worn for 20-22 hours a day, so gum chewing should be kept to a minimum in order to avoid delays in your treatment.
I Have Braces Now; Can I Switch to Invisalign®?
The decision to switch from traditional braces to Invisalign is a major one, and you will need to consult directly with your orthodontist prior to undergoing a change in treatment. In general, Invisalign is best suited for more mild to moderate cases of misalignment, whereas metal braces are typically the better option for more complex cases. One of our dentists can help assess whether you are a good candidate for Invisalign during a consultation.
We want to help you make the best decision for your needs, goals, and lifestyle. For more information about Invisalign, or to schedule a consultation with one of our Saco River Dentistry doctors, contact us online or at (207) 929-3900 .
