Invisalign® clear aligners offer a modern solution for straightening teeth without the need for traditional metal braces. Say goodbye to unsightly brackets and wires and hello to the clear, comfortable, and discreet way to achieve your dream smile. Invisalign® aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth and gradually shift them into place, all while being virtually invisible. With Invisalign® clear aligners, you can straighten your teeth while still maintaining your lifestyle and confidence. Keep reading to learn more about how Invisalign® can transform your smile.
What Exactly is Invisalign®?
Invisalign® is an orthodontic treatment that involves a series of clear plastic aligners designed to fit over the teeth. These aligners work to gently shift the teeth to their proper positions, and are conveniently removable for eating and brushing your teeth, much like retainers. Typically, each aligner is worn for approximately two weeks before moving onto the next, with progress monitored periodically by a dentist or orthodontist to ensure that teeth are moving as they should be.
Invisalign® can treat the following:
- Overbites
- Crossbites
- Gaps
- Open Bite
- Overcrowding
- Underbite
Invisalign® Vs Braces
Invisalign® is the ideal solution for anyone seeking a comfortable and discreet orthodontic treatment. Unlike traditional braces that rely on wires and brackets, Invisalign’s® removable aligners are much more comfortable to wear, allowing patients to eat, drink, and maintain their oral hygiene routines with ease. Additionally, Invisalign’s® clear and transparent material is perfect for those who don’t want to draw attention to their orthodontic treatment. With Invisalign, there is no need for frequent adjustments or tightening, and fewer trips to the dentist are required compared to traditional braces. Finally, Invisalign’s® effects are often noticeable in a shorter period than traditional braces, allowing patients to achieve the smile they desire more quickly.
How Invisalign® Is Different
Comfortable
Smooth plastic surfaces offer a comfort level to the tongue and cheeks unequaled by other forms of straightening.
Efficient
Gradual pressure on specific teeth with each aligner means less stress and shortened treatment times, in many cases.
Convenient
We dispense several sets of aligners at once, allowing you to change to a new one at home every two weeks.
Removable
No more getting food caught in your braces. Easily brush and floss your teeth for better oral hygiene.
The Invisalign® process
Initial Consultation
During your first appointment, your dentist will evaluate your mouth and discuss your cosmetic dentistry goals. If Invisalign is a viable option for you, the dentist will explain the treatment process and the estimated length of treatment. If it isn’t, your dentist will discuss other options with you.
Molding Process
Next, your dentist will take digital scans, photographs, and x-rays to create a precise model of your teeth. This model is sent to the Invisalign laboratory to make your custom aligner trays.
Fitting the First Tray
When your trays are ready, your dentist will fit the first one to your teeth. Small, clear attachments may also be placed on your teeth to help the trays stay in place. Your dentist will check the fit of your aligner trays and explain your aftercare program.
Follow-Up Appointments
You’ll need to return periodically to check on your progress, but you won’t need to see the dentist each time you switch to a new aligner tray. If your treatment isn’t progressing as planned, you may need to have a new digital scan taken to order an additional set of aligners.
Difference Between Invisalign® and Invisalign® Teen
Invisalign Teen is quite similar to Invisalign for adults, but there are two significant differences between the two treatments:
Aligner Indicator
Unlike Invisalign for adults, the aligners used in Invisalign Teen have a tiny dot on the back. That dot will change color from blue to clear to white depending on how often a teenager wears his or her aligners. This serves as a visual reminder for teenagers to wear their aligners consistently.
Replacement Aligners
Teens are often more active and may be less responsible with their belongings compared to adults. Therefore, Invisalign Teen patients receive more replacement aligners than adult patients to account for potential loss or damage.
Other than these differences, Invisalign treatment for both adults and teens is essentially the same. Invisalign can be used to treat the same kinds of dental issues, and the materials used are identical for both age groups.
Invisalign First
A new treatment that can improve children’s smiles as they grow.
The primary goal of Phase 1 therapy is to facilitate the development of young jaws and/or arches, creating space for current and future permanent teeth.
Invisalign First aligners offer:
- Tailored solutions for a wide spectrum of dental alignment concerns in developing youngsters, addressing simple to intricate issues like crowding, spacing, and narrow dental arches.
- Conveniently removable for effortless hygiene routines, simplifying brushing and flossing for growing children.
- Engineered for comfort, ensuring a painless experience without the inconvenience of rubbing brackets or poking wires.
Who could be a candidate for Invisalign First clear aligners?
As a child grows, their smile grows with them. And even with baby teeth, it may be the perfect time for children ages 6 to 10 to start orthodontic treatment. This is known as Phase 1 treatment.
At this stage, orthodontists can see issues that may need early treatment to address a developing problem.
Invisalign First clear aligner treatment is designed for predictable results and a positive experience while addressing the unique needs of growing children.
ADDITIONAL FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT INVISALIGN®
How long does Invisalign® treatment take?
The length of treatment with Invisalign® varies depending on the complexity of the case, but it typically takes between 6-18 months.
Is Invisalign® treatment painful?
Patients may experience some mild discomfort or pressure when they switch to a new set of aligners, but it is typically less painful than traditional braces.
How often do I need to wear my Invisalign® aligners?
For best results, Invisalign® aligners should be worn for 20-22 hours per day, and only removed for eating, drinking, and brushing teeth.
Can I eat and drink with my Invisalign® aligners in?
It is recommended that patients remove their Invisalign® aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water, to prevent staining and damage to the aligners.
Can I play sports or musical instruments with Invisalign® aligners in?
Yes, Invisalign® aligners can be worn during most activities, including sports and playing musical instruments. However, patients should wear a mouthguard during contact sports.
Will Invisalign® aligners affect my speech?
While some patients may experience a slight lisp during the first few days of wearing Invisalign® aligners, it typically resolves quickly as the patient becomes accustomed to the aligners.
How often do I need to visit the dentist during Invisalign® treatment?
Patients typically visit their dentist or orthodontist every 6-8 weeks to monitor progress and receive new sets of Invisalign®.
How much does Invisalign® treatment cost?
The cost of Invisalign® treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case, but it is generally comparable to the cost of traditional braces. The dental team at Arleen Azar-Mehr, D.D.S., M.S. can provide a more specific cost estimate based on your individual needs.
Is there a dentist near me in Northridge that offers Invisalign®?
Yes. At our Northridge dental office we offers Invisalign® to patients from Northridge and the surrounding area. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.