Introduction
Invisalign is a system of clear aligners that gradually straighten your teeth. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks and then replaced by the next one in the series until you reach your desired results.
The process begins with an examination from your dentist to determine whether you’re a good candidate for Invisalign treatment, followed by digital scans of your teeth and jawbone. A 3D computer model of your mouth is then created based on these scans, allowing us to create custom-made trays that fit perfectly over each tooth in order to move them into their new positions without causing any damage or discomfort.
Invisalign Limitations
Invisalign isn’t right for everyone. If you have severe cases of malocclusion, missing teeth or other dental problems, Invisalign may not be the best option for you. Your dentist will be able to let you know if Invisalign is a good fit for your smile.
Cost of Invisalign
The cost of Invisalign depends on a number of factors, including:
- Choice of provider. The choice of your orthodontist is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during treatment. An experienced and reputable Invisalign provider can help ensure that your treatment progresses smoothly and efficiently, which will ultimately save you money in the long run.
- Complexity of case. The complexity of your case also affects its cost–the more complex it is (for example, if there are multiple issues with alignment or bite), then this will increase both time spent on treatment as well as overall expense.
- Dental insurance coverage: If you have dental insurance coverage through an employer or other organization, it’s important to check with them before beginning any kind of treatment so that they know exactly what kind(s) they provide coverage for; this way there won’t be any surprises later down the road!
Invisalign Alternatives
If you’re interested in Invisalign but not sure if it’s right for you, here are some alternatives to consider:
- Traditional braces
- Ceramic braces
Traditional braces are the most common orthodontic option. They’re made of metal wires and brackets that attach to your teeth with bands or elastics. The process requires regular visits to the orthodontist so that they can check on progress and make adjustments as needed. Braces aren’t very discreet–you’ll always know when someone is wearing them!
Invisalign vs Traditional Braces
Invisalign trays are made from a transparent plastic that allows you to see your teeth and gums. This makes it easier for you to keep track of the progress of your treatment, which can be especially important if you’re wearing braces for the first time.
Invisalign also offers some advantages over traditional braces:
- Discreet treatment – Invisalign is less noticeable than traditional metal braces because it doesn’t require rubber bands or wires on your teeth. You can even wear these clear aligners in public without anyone knowing that they’re there!
- Improved oral hygiene – Because there are no metal parts in Invisalign aligners, they don’t trap food particles between them like traditional metal braces do. As a result, bacteria growth is reduced in the mouth which helps prevent bad breath (halitosis).
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Invisalign Treatment
There are a few things you can do to make sure you get the most out of your Invisalign treatment. First, make sure that you wear your aligners for at least 22 hours a day. This will ensure that they work as effectively as possible and give them time to move teeth into place during the night when they are not being worn.
Secondly, clean your aligners regularly with warm water and soap or toothpaste (if desired). This will help prevent any buildup on the surface of each tray which could hinder its effectiveness in moving teeth into place. Finally, visit your dentist or orthodontist regularly so they can check on how well their treatment is going!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the benefits of Invisalign?
Invisalign uses clear aligners to move your teeth into their ideal position. The aligners are custom-made for your mouth, so they’re comfortable to wear and easy to remove. You can eat and drink what you want while wearing them–no more worrying about what foods will damage your braces! And because Invisalign uses a series of removable trays instead of brackets and wires, there’s no need for frequent adjustments or visits to the orthodontist. - What are the limitations of Invisalign?
Because each patient’s treatment plan is unique, it may take longer than expected before you see results from using Invisalign aligners. It’s also important that you follow all instructions carefully so that you get maximum benefit from wearing these clear plastic trays in your mouth every day (and night).
Tips for Caring for Your Teeth During Treatment
- Brush and floss regularly. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably after each meal or snack. Flossing is an important part of oral hygiene that helps remove plaque from between the teeth and under the gum line.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods. Foods like nuts, seeds, candy and popcorn can damage aligners if they get caught between them during treatment–especially if you’re still in the early stages of treatment when your teeth aren’t moving as much as they will later on in the process.
- Keep your aligners clean! Cleaning them daily with warm water will help keep them fresh-smelling and free from bacteria that could cause tooth decay or gum disease over time (which would make it more difficult for us to achieve the results we want).
Tips for Dealing with Invisalign Discomfort
- Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen. The pain of Invisalign treatment can be managed with over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen (Tylenol). These drugs are effective at reducing inflammation and easing discomfort, so they’re great for treating any pain you might experience during your aligners’ adjustment period.
- Use a cold compress on your gums or cheeks after removing the aligners for the day, as well as before putting them back in again in the morning. If there’s any swelling from irritation during wear, this will help reduce it by bringing down inflammation levels throughout your mouth area–and make sure to keep using ice packs regularly until things start feeling better!
- Rinse with warm salt water before going to bed every night while wearing aligners: This will help clean out food particles that could potentially get lodged between teeth and cause irritation if left alone overnight; plus it’ll give you good oral hygiene habits even when all those trays aren’t around anymore!
