What To Expect When You Start Invisalign Treatment

For many years, traditional metal braces were the most common option to correct orthodontic issues. Dental technology, specifically in orthodontics, has advanced throughout the years, and there are now multiple different methods available when it comes to treatment. Deciding on Invisalign can be an exciting time for patients. The decision to embark on a journey with Invisalign clear braces over traditional braces can also be overwhelming, and you may not know what to expect.

Invisalign clear braces can be an effective treatment option for teens and adults with mild to moderate orthodontic needs. Treatment consists of a series of custom-made trays that apply gentle pressure to the teeth to shift them into proper alignment. The transparent aligners can help to put each tooth on a straighter path without interrupting your lifestyle.

Invisalign clear braces can help treat misalignment issues, overcrowding, gaps, overbites, underbites, and more. Results may vary, so it’s important to discuss all available options with your dentist. If you happen to both determine that Invisalign is an appropriate treatment method for your specific orthodontic needs, this particular article may help answer any questions you might have.

When arriving at your initial appointment, it’s understandable that you may be wondering what happens — so let’s break down what to expect. 

Initial consultation

Let the journey begin! At your initial consultation, you will meet with your dentist to help create a custom-tailored treatment plan to assist with your specific orthodontic needs. First, your dentist will complete a quick 3D digital scan of your teeth, followed by photographs and diagnostic digital X-rays. 

You will then meet with a treatment coordinator and your dentist to discuss the personalized treatment plan options. Now is the time to ask any questions you may have regarding treatment, including Invisalign costs. Invisalign is an investment and, you must make sure that the price is within your budget. Be sure to discuss potential payment plans the practice may offer and if your third-party insurance coverage will apply to your treatment.

You’ve decided on Invisalign treatment — now what?

Custom-fit clear aligners, made from medical-grade plastic, are designed and developed from the 3D digital scans, photographs, and X-rays taken at the initial consultation. Your dentist will ensure that the aligners properly fit and provide detailed guidelines and tips to make the transition to Invisalign as seamless as possible. Your dentist will also teach you how to insert and remove the aligner trays and provide helpful suggestions on caring for them properly.

Depending on your orthodontic needs and how much movement is required, you may need to wear attachments or buttons. The attachments are either bonded or glued to the enamel of your teeth in the same shade. The Invisalign trays will attach to the buttons to assist with shifting and may accelerate the treatment progress. And don’t worry, the buttons will be removed when your treatment is complete.

The adjustment period 

Getting used to the aligners will take no longer than a few days, and your dentist will likely advise using over-the-counter pain medication to ease any discomfort you may experience. But don’t get too comfortable! Aligners are typically changed every two weeks, depending on your treatment plan, to the next set in the series.

It’s important to remember that the discomfort experienced during Invisalign treatment is minimal. The sole purpose of orthodontic treatment is to shift the teeth and jaw into proper alignment by applying pressure. A few helpful tips are to change to your new set of aligners before bed, choose soft foods until your teeth adjust, try to limit the amount of time the trays are out of your mouth, and most importantly, stay on schedule. 

Patient compliance

Invisalign clear braces are an investment, and patient compliance is crucial for successful treatment outcomes. The most important part of treatment is to ensure that you are wearing the aligners between 20 to 22 hours each day.

Keeping your aligner trays clean is a crucial part of your overall treatment plan. Each time you remove your trays to eat or drink anything other than water, you should brush your teeth and your aligners before reinserting. Unlike traditional braces, you do not have to adjust or restrict your diet, but it’s important for food to never remain in your teeth while wearing your aligners.

Watch your smile transform

Many patients are surprised to see results quickly in their treatment. A bonus of wearing Invisalign clear braces is that you can watch your teeth shift and your smile transform right before your eyes. Treatment times vary from patient to patient, depending on the case. A typical Invisalign treatment may range from four months to 24 months, and the average time investment is usually around 12 to 15 months. 

It’s important to remember that Invisalign clear braces may not be the most suitable treatment option for everyone. Since there’s no way to tell on your own, be sure to speak with your dental professional about all options that would be best suited for your orthodontic needs. 

Invisalign Treatment Hacks You’ll Want To Know

Are you getting ready to start Invisalign treatment? If you are a candidate for Invisalign, the treatment can produce impressive results. The guidelines are relatively simple: the better you care for your teeth and aligners, the better the outcome will be. 

In this article, we’ll provide some tips and tricks for Invisalign clear braces treatment to keep you moving forward. Invisalign aligners are discreet and removable, so you can continue your current lifestyle, from brushing to flossing and everything in between. 

Keep track of your daily wear time

It is essential to wear your Invisalign clear braces for at least 20 to 22 hours each day. This recommended daily wear time can help ensure optimal treatment results. Unlike traditional braces, you can remove the aligners to eat or drink. Be mindful about the amount of time the aligners are out of your mouth. Keep an eye on how long the aligners are removed and create a habit of reinserting after meals — but not before brushing! 

Always have a toothbrush kit on hand

Patients who maintain a diligent at-home oral care routine during Invisalign treatment are unlikely to develop future dental issues. Brush your teeth after each meal and ensure that food does not remain on your teeth. Carrying a travel toothbrush kit, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss, is convenient for on-the-go brushing and keeping teeth healthy during treatment. 

Remove your aligners safely

It does take some practice and patience to learn how to safely and effectively remove your Invisalign clear braces. Your dentist may provide a removal tool that makes the process a bit easier, and this will help avoid constantly putting your fingers in your mouth. A helpful Invisalign tip is to rinse the aligners before placing them in their accompanying case to eliminate lingering bacteria. Also, it is handy to have multiple storage cases readily available for storing your Invisalign clear braces. Never wrap your aligners in a paper towel or napkin after taking them out to eat. Of course, this is not wise because they could accidentally get tossed in the trash. 

Never insert trays without brushing first

As previously mentioned, you should never reinsert clear aligner trays without brushing and flossing your teeth first. Food particles and bacteria can become trapped and, this potentially could lead to excessive plaque, cavities, tooth decay, or even gum disease. 

Keep your trays clean

Another crucial step for a successful treatment outcome is to clean your Invisalign trays properly. To prevent bacteria growth, plaque buildup, and infection caused by improper dental care, thoroughly brush your teeth after each meal or snack and after drinking anything other than water. To effectively clean your Invisalign clear braces, be sure to soak them in a solution designed for aligners or retainers, use a denture cleaner, or rinse the trays thoroughly with cool water. Avoid brushing the trays with toothpaste as the formula contains abrasive ingredients that could damage the plastic. 

Set reminders

Set a timer as a reminder to reinsert your trays after eating. It might feel slightly obsessive to track the amount of time the aligners are out of your mouth, but the closer you come to meeting the 20 to 22-hour goal each day, the closer you come to the smile you’ve always hoped to have. Depending on your treatment plan, Invisalign trays are typically changed every two weeks. It may be beneficial to set alarms on your phone to remind you when it’s time for the next set in the series. 

Switch aligners at bedtime

While clear aligners can be an effective method for correcting misalignment issues, they can cause discomfort. You will experience mild pain from the pressure applied to your teeth. A helpful tip is to switch to your new set of aligners in the series before bed. Taking over-the-counter pain medication can help you sleep throughout the initial adjustment period and will help avoid dealing with any discomfort throughout the day. 

Keep your previous set of aligners 

Though it can be tempting to immediately toss your aligners after switching to the next set of trays in the series, a helpful tip is to keep the previous trays on hand, just in case you misplace or damage your Invisalign clear braces. Keeping the former set of aligners will allow you to continue with your treatment progress until you can schedule an appointment with your dentist for a replacement.

Create a schedule and stick to it! 

Invisalign clear braces are convenient, comfortable, removable, and discreet. But even with all of these advantages, patient compliance is essential for successful treatment. Invisalign is an investment, and it’s helpful to create a schedule and stick to it. Be mindful about the amount of time you are wearing your clear braces, and be sure to maintain a dedicated at-home oral care routine. You are taking the necessary steps towards achieving the smile you’ve always hoped for, so be sure to follow these suggestions to make your orthodontic journey a breeze and, hopefully, an overall enjoyable experience.

How to Manage the Cost of Orthodontic Treatment

Each year, millions of patients embark on orthodontic journeys. The cost of orthodontic treatment is not only an investment of time but of money as well. The average cost of orthodontic braces in Canada can rage anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the patient’s dental requirements. 

In this article, we’ll discuss the different factors and payment options to consider so you can comfortably fit orthodontic treatment into your budget and more importantly, to ensure that you feel confident and secure in your decision. 

Plan Ahead

Each patient’s specific orthodontic issues and their severity will play the largest role in determining the cost of orthodontic treatment, and understandably, the cost of orthodontic treatment can make some patients hesitant to explore options. Ideally, it’s beneficial to appropriately plan to incorporate the cost of orthodontic treatment into your budget. Multiple factors that affect the cost of treatment include your specific oral health needs, how much work needs to be completed, any coverage that your insurance plan provides, your location and average price of treatment in your area, and the amount of time and work that’s required of your orthodontist.

Choose the Right Orthodontist 

Dentistry is not only built on clinical skills but relationships, too. Choosing the right orthodontist is crucial in achieving the smile of your dreams. Your trained orthodontist should have years of experience and outstanding ratings and referrals from satisfied patients. The first thing your orthodontist will want to do is to consult to inspect your teeth, assess your bite, take X-rays, and determine the course of treatment. This visit will solely represent the consultation and diagnostic phase. Having an open dialogue with your orthodontist is important when deciding on your care. Ultimately, the choice belongs to you, but it’s important to find an orthodontist who has your best interest, and your budget, in mind.

Consider Different Treatment Options

Your orthodontist will help you create the best plan for your particular situation. With today’s advancements in technology, there are many different treatment options available depending on your orthodontic needs. Treatment options include traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and removable appliances such as clear aligners and retainers. A helpful tip is to become educated on the treatment options that are available for your specific orthodontic needs. Be sure to ask all of the right questions so that you feel confident in your final decision.

Ask About Payment Plans or Financing Options Up Front

It’s recommended to speak with your dental office to learn about all of the offered payment plans available. Every orthodontic practice will have a variety of payment options that will make it easier financially for you or your family members. Many dental practices offer affordable and flexible monthly payment plans that provide an opportunity to make small payments throughout your treatment, rather than paying for the entirety of your treatment upfront.

Check Your Insurance Plan 

Orthodontic coverages varies between plans and providers. Many insurance providers will allow patients to increase the orthodontic option, and if you’re considering treatment for a child and both parents have coverage, you will be able to apply both plans. It’s important to have your insurance company fully explain your orthodontic coverage to you. According to a report by the Canadian Association of Orthodontics (CAO), orthodontics are covered separately in a dental insurance contract and the procedure is typically covered at the 50 per cent level.

Follow All Post-Treatment Protocols 

As previously mentioned, orthodontic treatment is a big investment in time and money. Following your orthodontist’s post-treatment protocol will prevent the need to redo treatment and will ultimately keep the cost of treatment down. To avoid tooth movement after your braces or appliances are removed, a retainer, whether fixed or removable, will likely be recommended to keep your teeth in their new position. Over time, your teeth can shift back to their original position if you don’t follow your post treatment plan. It’s important to remember that patient compliance is an essential part of successful orthodontic treatment. 

Everyone deserves a smile that they’re proud of, and there are ways to reduce or manage the cost of orthodontic treatment. Be sure to explore all options that suit your lifestyle and budget, and listen carefully to the recommendations of your dental professional. 

Choosing the Right Orthodontic Treatment

For most patients, achieving a straight, beautiful smile is the deciding factor for investing in orthodontic care. If you happen to feel self-conscious about your smile, or if you’re experiencing discomfort with your bite, correcting your concerns through orthodontic treatment can successfully change the way you not only look but feel. 

That being said, it’s important to remember that orthodontic treatment goes far beyond aesthetics. It also helps improve the overall function of the teeth and jaw muscles. The best option to correct misalignment issues will depend on several different factors. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, reducing the chances of tooth decay and gum disease. Crowded teeth may make brushing and flossing more challenging with the risk of missing food particles and bacteria in hard-to-reach areas. Malocclusion, otherwise known as a bad bite, can also create discomfort and challenges with eating and speaking. 

Advancements in orthodontic technology mean that there are more treatment options available today than ever before. To shift misaligned or crooked teeth to the desired position, your orthodontist can help you choose the best-suited treatment for your specific orthodontic condition. Next, we’ll break down the most popular orthodontic treatment options.

Traditional Braces

Traditional metal braces are more comfortable than ever before. Made of high-grade stainless steel and titanium, they help straighten your teeth by using metal brackets and archwires. Once the braces have been placed, they require adjustment to move the teeth to their optimal position. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to allow your orthodontist to monitor the progress. Braces are suitable for both minor and complex orthodontic issues including misalignment, underbites, overbites, and crossbites. 

Ceramic Braces

For a more discreet option, ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are less visible on your teeth compared to traditional metal braces. For patients with cosmetic concerns, ceramic braces are a popular option. It’s important to note that even though the appearance will be more discreet, it’s not completely transparent. Instead, the brackets are made from a shade of ceramic that appropriately matches your teeth.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are hidden behind the teeth making them completely invisible when you smile. They are one hundred per cent customized to match the exact shape of your teeth and are placed within the inner portion of the teeth to assist with tooth, jaw, and bite correction. They have gained popularity throughout the years because they are a more comfortable and discreet option for those undergoing orthodontic treatment. 

Clear & Removable Aligners 

Looking to achieve a straight smile without a mouth full of metal? Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are an alternative treatment of customized clear plastic trays that shift your teeth into proper alignment. Orthodontic treatment using clear aligners allows for a reduced treatment time but only if the treatment plan is followed properly. Since patient compliance is essential for success, patients are required to be disciplined about wearing the aligners for at least 22 hours a day. They are changed every two weeks on average to the next set in the series, only to be removed when eating or drinking anything other than water, and of course, to brush and floss. 

Retainers

A fixed or removable retainer will mold to the shape of your bite and must be worn as directed by your orthodontist. Fixed retainers are custom-fitted wires that are bonded to the inside of your teeth, typically on the lower teeth. The role of the trainer is to keep teeth in place while the bone tissue rebuilds around them. Similar to removable aligners, retainers should be worn at all times, except when you are eating or brushing your teeth. It’s important to follow the advice and direction of your orthodontist and not neglect your retainer in order to achieve desired results.

Palate Expanders

A palate expander is an orthodontic appliance that is used to correct a discrepancy or width problem between the upper and lower jaws. The appliance applies pressure to the backs of the upper molars, gradually moving the teeth further apart. Palate expanders are typically used in younger patients because the upper and lower jaws are still developing but in certain cases, they are used for adult patients. 

Forsus Appliances 

It’s recommended for children to have an orthodontic exam and evaluation performed no later than age seven. This will allow the dentist or orthodontist to see if they are candidates for orthodontic treatment, as it’s easier to treat issues while the jaws and teeth are still in a developmental stage. A Forsus appliance is attached to traditional braces to bring the upper and lower jaw into its proper position. These appliances have mostly replaced the use of headgear and are commonly used to help correct stubborn overbites. 

Top Five Most Prevalent Orthodontic Questions Answered

Orthodontics can be traced back to ancient Greek and Roman civilizations before becoming more mainstream thanks to a Frenchman named Pierre Fauchard in the 1700s. Fortunately for all modern patients, there has been a continual evolution from the bygone days. Still, the science of orthodontistry remains a mystery to many people, particularly since there are so many advancements. 

Here are the top 5 questions first time orthodontic patients often ask:

1. What is orthodontic treatment and how does it work?

Orthodontic treatment helps remedy dental irregularities like crowded or misaligned teeth or issues that have been caused by injuries, the improper position of jaw bones or teeth, and accidents.

Malocclusion is the technical umbrella term for all of these issues including crooked and crowded teeth, teeth with large gaps between them, or impacted teeth.

Orthodontic treatment helps straighten your teeth and resolve those issues. Treatment may include a few different methods including traditional metal braces, retainers, clear (ceramic) braces, or clear aligners.

2. Why would orthodontic treatment be for me?

Orthodontic treatment can positively impact long term oral health as well as improve your bite and smile for the rest of your life.

A do-nothing approach can result in headaches and pain from a misaligned jaw. Crooked or crowded teeth can prove more difficult to clean, which can result in poor dental hygiene. 

In addition to health concerns, some people are worried about their appearance. Remedying crooked, crowded or gapped teeth makes smiles more symmetrical.

3. Which orthodontic treatment is the fastest?

In short, orthodontic treatment requires an investment of time and money in order to achieve one’s goals.

It is important to protect your oral health and investment by taking care of your teeth. Oral hygiene is important anyway, but particularly so when teeth are undergoing changes in alignment. Try to prevent yourself from grinding or biting down hard, because this can cause pressure and unnecessary wear and tear.

Attending scheduled appointments is paramount to ensuring the treatment is proceeding as planned and without obstacles. Follow your dentist’s instructions and treatment plan, from how often to brush and floss, to what you should and should not eat, and how much you are to wear your appliance.

4. Which orthodontic treatment is the best for me?

Orthodontic treatment is tailored and customized to the person. The orthodontic treatment that will work the best for you will entirely depend on factors like your current oral health, the severity of your malocclusion and the extent of previous dental work you have already had done. Some people require braces while others just need clear aligners. Personal preference and budget can impact those choices and your orthodontist can walk through the pros and cons of the decision with you.

5. Is there a perfect age for treatment?

Typically, the earlier you start, the easier and more efficient it will be. While not long ago, traditional orthodontic treatment began between the ages of 12 and 14, orthodontic professionals now recognize that starting treatment even earlier can prove incredibly beneficial to their patients.

This early intervention for positive dental health occurs between 7–11 years old and is called interceptive treatment.

Many adults opt for orthodontic treatment and people are good candidates as long as their teeth are generally healthy. Adults should realize that treatment does tend to take longer for them than it does for children.  

Invisalign: How Much Does It Cost To Fix My Smile?

When patients think about orthodontics, they often associate treatment with dollar signs. 

It’s understandable that the cost of orthodontic treatment can make some patients hesitant to explore options. As cost is a concern for many, there are financial factors to take into consideration during the decision-making process. Exact treatment costs are dependent on your requirements, but typically Invisalign treatment is comparable to traditional fixed braces. According to Invisalign, every smile is unique – and so is every budget. 

Let’s start with the basics. The Invisalign system consists of a series of clear aligners that you typically change every two weeks based on the custom treatment plan provided by your dentist or orthodontist. The aligners are custom-made and created individually for each patient according to their specific orthodontic needs. Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners adapt to all lifestyles, as they are removable, discreet, and provide a faster treatment period.  

Included in your Invisalign treatment plan is face-to-face doctor care. Your dentist or orthodontist will walk you through everything you need to know about your aligners so that you’re able to understand the process and adapt to the new change in your life. Everyone’s smile is different, which is why each set of aligners is custom-made based on a 3D digital scan of your teeth, and individually fitted and trimmed to provide a more comfortable appliance experience. 

But of course, the advantages come with an attached price tag. It’s important to speak with your dentist or orthodontist at your initial consultation to receive an estimated cost. Next, we’ll list the factors that affect the cost of Invisalign and contribute to the total amount you might pay:

• Your specific oral health needs and how much work needs to be completed to achieve the healthy smile you desire

• Any coverage your third-party insurance plan provides

• Your location and average prices for Invisalign treatment in your city 

• The dentist’s time for his/her work

 

On the Invisalign website, there are three different ways listed that explain how to potentially pay for your treatment. Each case and treatment plan is unique to the patient, so it’s recommended to always speak with your dental professional first to see what options are available.

1. Healthcare savings account

A healthcare savings account (HSCA) is an employee benefit that offers reimbursement for a range of health and dental expenses. It’s a non-taxable health benefits bank account that allows you to save and pay for your out-of-pocket health care-related expenses. And this may include Invisalign treatment! The advantage of using an HCSA is that you don’t pay taxes on the money that you put into the account. Speak to your employer and benefits provider to learn more.

2. Third-party insurance coverage

Many third-party insurance plans cover Invisalign treatment the same way they cover braces. Though only a portion may be covered, it’s recommended to speak with your provider so that you can learn more about your specific benefits package. Oftentimes, your dental office can also call your insurance provider to inquire about your plan and the details of your coverage.

3. Monthly payment plans

Many doctors offer flexible and affordable monthly payment plans. This provides an opportunity to make small payments throughout your treatment, rather than paying for the entirety of your treatment up front. Consult with your dental office to learn more about potential payment plans offered to patients. 

With a high success rate of correcting misaligned teeth, Invisalign is a great orthodontic treatment option for mild to moderate cases. Speak to your dental professional to see if you’re a candidate and be sure to explore all options that fit your budget. 

Clear Aligners: 8 Things to Know to Help Make a Clear Choice

If you’re reading this, you’re likely trying to decide whether you or your child should invest in clear aligner orthodontic treatment. Everyone desires a beautiful, straight smile, but for some, this can be hard to attain.

Clear aligners are the modern way to straighten teeth. It’s the fastest orthodontic treatment option that straightens teeth with the use of removable and invisible braces. It provides desired results and a significantly less number of treatment sessions over a reduced period. Clear aligner trays are a popular orthodontic choice because they are removable, discreet, and convenient. 

In this article, we’ll break down eight important factors to consider when deciding if clear aligner treatment is the right choice for you.

1. Clear aligners are custom-made for your mouth

Made from clear, medical-grade plastic, aligners are created individually for each patient. They are customized to fit your specific dental structure and are created based on the severity of your case and individual needs. A digital scanner is used to create a 3D image of your teeth and based on the scans, a series of clear aligner trays are designed to gradually shift the teeth into proper alignment as prescribed by your dentist or orthodontist. 

2. Clear aligners transform your smile discreetly 

Gone are the days of being embarrassed about a mouth full of metal. Unlike traditional metal braces, a series of virtually invisible plastic aligners will straighten your teeth over time and work similar to traditional metal braces, but with one major difference: they are removable. And most importantly, you have the opportunity to watch your smile change over time and witness the difference clear aligners make on your smile throughout the entire treatment process.

3. Clear aligners treat orthodontic issues quickly

Depending on the severity of your orthodontic needs, patients typically start to see results within the first six weeks of treatment. But this requires patient compliance. It’s important to wear your aligners for at least 22 hours a day for optimal results. In addition to a proper and regular oral hygiene routine, it’s important to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings, and to be aware of the amount of time the aligners are removed from your mouth. If you want to achieve great results, it’s important to stay on track and be dedicated to your treatment plan. 

4. Clear aligners allow you to maintain an easy dental hygiene routine 

With traditional braces, maintaining a proper oral care routine can be challenging. Food particles and bacteria can become trapped in the brackets and wires. With clear aligners, you can remove your trays before eating and drinking. But even with this convenience, it’s essential to still maintain a regular oral hygiene routine. It’s very important to brush and floss your teeth after eating or drinking anything other than water to avoid bacteria buildup and tooth decay.

5. Clear aligners must be removed when eating or drinking

A major benefit of clear aligner treatment is that the braces are removable. Unlike traditional braces, you do not have to restrict your diet. Simply remove the trays before eating or drinking anything other than water, and be sure to brush and floss your teeth before reinserting. A helpful tip is to always carry a travel sized oral hygiene kit for brushing on the go. 

6. Clear aligners should always be cleaned properly 

To effectively clean clear aligners, soak them in a special solution designed for specifically for aligners, use a denture cleaner, or simply rinse the trays thoroughly with cool water. It’s not recommended to brush your aligners with a toothbrush and toothpaste, as toothpaste contains ingredients that are too abrasive. This could cause your aligners to become scratched or damaged. 

7. Clear aligner treatment requires fewer in-office appointments

Clear aligner orthodontic treatment requires fewer appointments than traditional braces. At the beginning of your clear aligner treatment, you’ll receive a series of trays. Typically, aligner trays are changed every two weeks for the next slightly adjusted set of aligners in the series. There’s no need for adjustment or tightening appointments but your dentist or orthodontist will still recommend occasional appointments to check the progress of your treatment plan. In most cases, you will also need to be fitted for a retainer at the end of your treatment. This will help ensure your newly straighten smile stays in its place. 

8. Clear aligners will only be effective if patients are compliant

Patient compliance is crucial in orthodontic treatment involving removable appliances. Simply put, you will be the reason why your orthodontic treatment is effective or not. As previously mentioned, aligners must be worn for at least 22 hours a day. You can help shorten the treatment process if you do your part at home. This entails wearing the aligners for the recommended time, keeping them clean, and continuing with scheduled appointments with your dentist. 

Looking to Change Your Smile? Invisalign Could Be For You!

The power of a smile can help you feel more confident at any age. But is your fear of braces holding you back? It may be time to reconsider.

Many people are under the assumption that braces are displeasing and embarrassing, but thanks to clear, aesthetic aligners, you can show off your smile instead of metal brackets and wires. A common frustration amongst patients is that they believe they missed their opportunity to correct their smile – but if you’re a candidate for Invisalign, it’s never too late.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a treatment plan consisting of a series of custom-made clear aligners that apply gentle pressure to the teeth to shift them into proper alignment. The treatment is simple, comfortable, and discreet for patients with mild to moderate orthodontic needs. 

First, you’ll meet with your orthodontist to map out a custom treatment plan just for you. Using advanced technologies, a 3D digital scan of your teeth, along with a series of photographs and diagnostic digital X-rays, will guide your orthodontist to provide personalized treatment plan options. From the scans and 3D images, custom-fit aligners will be specifically designed for you. 

Invisalign clear aligner trays are made with smooth, medical-grade plastics that are comfortable to wear after the initial transition period. Invisalign is required to be worn for at least 22 hours a day and trays are typically changed every two weeks to achieve optimal results. Invisalign is also very easy to use, making patient compliance easier than ever.

So, what are the benefits of undergoing orthodontic treatment with Invisalign? 

Straighter & Healthier Teeth

Misaligned teeth are a common dental issue, but the benefits of having straight teeth go far beyond cosmetics. Simply put, straight teeth are healthy teeth. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, reducing the chances of tooth decay and gum disease. Crowded teeth may make brushing and flossing more challenging with the risk of missing food particles and bacteria. Though results of using Invisalign will vary depending on the individual treatment plan, as long as you’re compliant, you can expect to see results in as little as six weeks. 

Improved Oral Hygiene

A major benefit of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. This allows you to continue living your life with minimal restrictions. That being said, it’s still extremely important to stay on top of your oral hygiene routine. After removing your aligners to eat or drink anything but water, you must get into the habit of immediately brushing and flossing your teeth. Bacteria and food particles can become trapped in your teeth and trays, which can eventually lead to tooth decay and cavities. With Invisalign, your oral care routine will become more diligent – and your dentist will be proud. 

Increased Comfort Level

Unlike traditional metal braces, there is no need for tightening and adjustment appointments, but you will be required to visit your orthodontist every six to eight weeks to track your progress and pick up your new sets of aligners. Since the aligners are made from smooth plastic and are custom fit to hug your teeth, they can be quite comfortable. You will experience some discomfort in the transition period, whether it’s your first set of trays or when changing to a new set, but with time, you will hardly notice you’re wearing them. And thanks to the transparent plastic, no one else will notice them either! 

Self-Esteem Booster

Many studies have proven that confident smiles have a direct impact on your self-confidence and self-esteem. However, having an imperfect smile can cause unwelcome anxieties and stress. If you are taking the necessary steps to correct your smile, it’s important to be patient, compliant, and most importantly, excited about the opportunity to not only improve your smile but your overall health and happiness. 

Over ten million people have used Invisalign clear aligners to transform their smiles as it’s the most advanced treatment clear aligner system available on the market. With Invisalign, you have the opportunity to watch your smile transform. Get ready to achieve lasting results because you’ll want to keep smiling every single day.