Invisalign^®

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a clear braces system that utilizes a series of plastic aligners to gradually shift misaligned teeth into a straightened position. Many of our patients at Roberts Dental Group choose Invisalign as a more discreet method of achieving straight teeth, compared to traditional braces which tend to have bold metal wires and brackets. Instead of going to a specialist, our patients have the option of working with our cosmetic dentist, Dr. Justin Roberts, for their Invisalign care. Dr. Roberts is highly experienced in the full breadth of general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry solutions.

• How Invisalign Works
• Invisalign Treatment Time
• Invisalign Process
• Invisalign Care
• Invisalign vs. Braces
• Invisalign Cost

How Does Invisalign Work?

If you are deemed a good candidate for Invisalign, Dr. Roberts can begin the planning process for your treatment. Impressions will be taken of your teeth, which allow for the creation of your custom aligners. Once these are ready, you will need to wear your Invisalign trays for at least 20 to 22 hours every day. Dr. Roberts recommends only removing your aligners when eating, cleaning them, or brushing and flossing.

You will need to return for periodic dental appointments so Dr. Roberts can monitor your progress. At each visit you will be provided with multiple sets of Invisalign aligners, each of which will be worn for about a week. As you progress to each new set of aligners, they will gradually be straightening your teeth.

How Long Does Invisalign Take?

On average, Invisalign typically takes 12 to 18 months to complete, but this may vary depending on the complexity of each patient’s case. If you do not wear your aligners for the instructed amount of time, this can prolong the duration of your treatment. Dr. Roberts can provide you with a more personalized timeline for your Invisalign treatment, based on the details of your orthodontic plan.

Does Invisalign Hurt?

Invisalign is a relatively comfortable and seamless treatment for patients who want to correct misalignment within their smile and bite. For patients new to Invisalign, there will be an initial adjustment period as you become acclimated to your aligners. Patients are often instructed to practice speaking with their aligners to become more comfortable with wearing them. While Invisalign may cause minimal discomfort at the beginning of the process, most dentists and patients agree that aligners cause significantly less irritation than metal braces.

How Do I Clean My Invisalign Aligners?

The required care for Invisalign aligners will typically mirror traditional teeth cleaning and oral hygiene practices, with some minor differences. If you wish, Invisalign aligners may be set in a special solution that is designed to maintain and clean them when they are not in use. Dr. Roberts can give you more information about a cleaning solution during your appointment. Alternatively, patients can simply rinse their aligners in lukewarm water and gently brush them with a mild soap.

When cleaning your aligners, do not use excessive or extremely hot water, as it can warp the device. Brushing and flossing your teeth will be vital in maintaining the overall care of your smile and aligners. You should avoid eating with your aligners altogether, but brushing your teeth after consuming soda, coffee, tea, drinks with red food coloring, and foods high in acidic content in particular, can help prevent staining. Ensuring there are no food particles left behind before wearing your aligners can prevent food from becoming wedged between your teeth and the appliance. Additionally, you should wear aligners as instructed and keep up with scheduled appointments to stay on track with your treatment plan.

Invisalign vs. Braces

Invisalign is typically considered a revolutionary step in dentistry when compared to traditional braces. Invisalign can achieve results that are equal to (or better than) the outcomes of traditional braces, while the treatment process is often completed more comfortably and in a shorter timeframe. If you are looking to address misaligned teeth and bite irregularities, but want to avoid a system that uses metal brackets and wires to accomplish your goals, Invisalign may be the ideal solution for you. With clear plastic aligners, Invisalign can significantly reduce the discomfort that is often associated with braces. The aligners can be extremely discreet while producing very efficient results. Invisalign can also help cut down the amount of dental appointments and overall maintenance required.

How Much Does Invisalign Cost?

Invisalign tends to cost between $3,000 and $5,000, but this will be different for each patient. A number of factors will influence your Invisalign price, including the severity of your crowding and misalignment, your dentist, and the geographic location of the practice. You will be provided with an accurate quote before treatment to help you budget for your care.