Invisalign is a clear aligner brand that has led the industry since it opened!
Clear aligners are plastic trays molded to fit and adjust your teeth as you wear them. Patients will receive new trays every few weeks. Each version of clear aligner trays are slightly different to allow your teeth to move gradually into the position they should. Traditional braces work pretty much the same way. The main differences include being able to remove the aligners so you can brush and floss as usual. That's a huge plus!
Who should get Invisalign?
Are you looking to get a great smile? Is the alignment of your smile causing a problem? Then you're a candidate for Invisalign! You should get Invisalign if you want an invisible alternative to braces. After a consult with Dr. Shoe, you may receive a recommendation that Invisalign would be perfect for you. Those are the main two criteria for who should get Invisalign. Whether you're a child, teen, or adult, we offer Invisalign treatment for everyone. Invisalign has programs and unique options for all ages.
What does the process look like?
After you have an exam with Dr. Shoe, we'll discuss your options and take an amazing scan of your smile. Using that scan, we'll create a unique, step-by-step treatment plan detailing the stages your teeth will take to move into the position they're supposed to be in. Once you approve the process, we'll work on your clear aligner trays. You'll wear these trays pretty much every hour of the day. Of course, you can take the aligners out when eating, brushing your teeth, and cleaning your aligners. Every few weeks, we'll provide a new set of trays adjusted to move your teeth even more. This process will continue until your orthodontic treatment is finished!
How much does Invisalign cost?
We'll discuss the treatment cost after your exam! The price depends on how extensive the treatment is. If your correction is minor, it might not cost as much if many modifications are needed. To provide a realistic cost estimate, we'll have to perform the exam and understand your desired effect. Other factors to consider would be your insurance and if you're using a health savings account. When we discuss treatment options, we'll provide a clear, upfront price before moving forward. Our team also offers payment plans that work for your budget. Treatment should break the bank for you; Shoe Orthodontics is happy to work on a payment plan that best suits your needs.
What if I've already had orthodontic or other dental work?
There are a variety of factors that go into deciding if someone is a candidate for Invisalign. We must perform a thorough exam before providing insight into your treatment options. But overall, if you've had certain types of dental or orthodontic work, you might not qualify for Invisalign treatment. This includes some types of permanent appliances. If you have a crown, you'll likely be able to use Invisalign; however, if you have a bridge, Invisalign isn't an ideal treatment for your orthodontic care. If you previously had braces, but your teeth have shifted, most of the time, there's no reason you wouldn't be a candidate for Invisalign.
Will Invisalign work if I am an adult?
Of course, Invisalign is perfect for adults. One of the best features of Invisalign is the minimal inference with your life. With braces, you'll visit the orthodontics every couple of weeks for adjustments. But, with Invisalign, you visit for a quick checkup and to pick up your newest clear aligner versions. Sometimes we'll even mail you the adjusted clear aligners. Another great part about Invisalign? Your friends and coworkers will barely even notice that you're wearing Invisalign. They are also removable, meaning you can eat or drink anything you'd like!
Does Invisalign hurt?
Not at all! When you initially start, there will be mild discomfort but no pain. If you experience pain, we might need to adjust your aligner trays. The clear aligners are designed to move your teeth gently, so the pressure from them is to be expected; after the initial discomfort decreases, you'll barely even notice that you're wearing them!
Will I need to wear a retainer after Invisalign is complete?
You'll need to wear a retainer to keep your smile looking fantastic. Similar to traditional braces, you'll need a retainer to keep your smile in place. We have retainer options: permanent retainer and clear aligner retainer. Permanent retainers are bonded behind your teeth! You'll never have to take them out. You'll have to work through the options with Dr. Shoe when deciding on a retainer after treatment. We want to maintain the beautiful smile you worked hard to achieve.
What can I eat and drink while wearing Invisalign?
While getting treatment with Invisalign, you can eat or drink anything you want! It's easily one of the best things about Invisalign. You pop out your clear aligners when you eat or drink. Then when you're done and you clear your teeth, you can pop the aligners back in! You never have to worry about loose wires, breaking brackets, or anything else.
Will Invisalign affect my speech?
Generally, Invisalign will not affect your speech. Sometimes it might take some time to get used to wearing the clear aligners. You might have an increase in saliva production which can affect your speaking, cause a lisp, or mild spittle. This will even out eventually, and your speech will return to normal. Then you won't even notice that you're wearing the clear aligners.
How long does Invisalign take?
The length of treatment varies on a case-by-case basis. Every patient is different, and their needs are different. Some patients have minor issues, so the treatment time is shorter than for someone with more extensive issues. Generally, treatment takes between one and two years. You should expect your Invisalign treatment to fall in that time frame. Once you're done with treatment, you'll have a gorgeous smile as a reward.
What steps do I take to get Invisalign?
The first step toward getting started with Invisalign treatment is to visit Shoe Orthodontics for a free orthodontic consult. We'll do a physical exam, then take photos and x-rays of your smile. After that, Dr. Shoe, our orthodontist, will review your case, the images, and the x-rays. Our team will then present you with your treatment options and let you know if you're a candidate for Invisalign. Then we'll take digital scans of your mouth. We'll use these scans to print your first set of clear aligners and digitally plan out your future trays and treatment. The process is simple, and we're eager to help you get started!
