What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a brand of clear aligners that we use in our office. It is a way of moving teeth orthodontically. It is a series of aligners that are prescribed to a patient and as they wear each aligner, the teeth gradually shift and move and get aligned so the bite is corrected.
How does Invisalign compare to traditional braces?
Traditional braces and Invisalign clear aligners both accomplish the same goal which is to align the teeth, straighten them and place them in the right place. They're just using different methods of getting that done. Invisalign is using clear aligners, while braces are using wires and brackets.
Is Invisalign really faster than braces?
In most cases, we have found that clear aligners can be quicker, the process provided the patient is really compliant in wearing their aligners but the length of time all depends on the particular case that we're treating.
Why is Invisalign often considered more comfortable than braces?
Anytime you move teeth, there will be some soreness as teeth move and whether it's wire braces or Invisalign braces. But in one sense, when Invisalign aligners are in your mouth, it's fairly smooth in there and you don't feel the wires and brackets that traditional orthodontics uses.
How long does Invisalign take to straighten teeth?
That all depends on each individual's case because everyone's bite is different. So that is a question that we'd have to answer case by case for each individual person.
What are Invisalign trays and how many will I need?
Invisalign trays or aligners as we call them are clear plastic trays that are custom made to fit only in the patient's mouth. They're made specifically for that patient and there's a series of them. There may be maybe 12, 20, or maybe more of these plastic, strong, flexible trays. As for the number, it depends on the case.
Do I sleep with Invisalign?
Yes, you do. You wear them pretty much 22 hours a day and the only time that we recommend you remove them is to eat and to do your oral hygiene, brushing your teeth and flossing and those kinds of things.
Is there anything that could disqualify me from using Invisalign?
There are just a couple of things that may disqualify you and if you're one that will not be able to wear the aligners for 22 hours a day, it's probably not a good idea to use Invisalign as a way to align your teeth. If you're someone who snacks throughout the day, unless you're willing to change that habit, it's not going to be easy to wear Invisalign aligners because you'd just be uncomfortable to get food under your aligners if you're going to wear them and eat or if you have to take them out and put them back on. It's going to be difficult to wear them for 22 hours a day.
Can Invisalign fix crossbite?
It can fix small crossbites. When there's crossbites in the whole area of the mouth, from the front to the back, it's probably not the best way to do the straightening.
Is Invisalign painful?
Invisalign moving teeth will cause some soreness of teeth. Usually that happens each time you change to a new aligner and it might last a day or two and I would consider it soreness, it's not extremely painful and that will happen even if you have braces. Each time your orthodontist or dentist tightens your wires, there will be some soreness.
Does most dental insurance cover the cost of Invisalign?
That varies from each case to each case. Some do provide some coverage and some do not. So each plan has to be looked at in detail to see if you have orthodontic coverage.
How much does Invisalign cost without dental insurance?
There's a range of fees depending on how simple or how complicated the case or your case may be. So it can be from $2,000 to $3,000 to over $6,000 depending on your particular case.
How can I schedule an appointment to talk with a dentist about Invisalign?
I would recommend that you call our office and express your interest in discussing Invisalign treatment and we will be happy to appoint you for a no-charge consultation. If you have further questions or you'd like to schedule a consultation, please give Montpelier Family Dentistry a call at 301-604-0025.
About Invisalign
Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that we use to straighten and align your teeth without metal braces. The procedure uses a custom-made transparent tray to cover your teeth while gently pushing or pulling misaligned teeth into their right positions.
As people have become more conscious about their smiles, they are using this transparent restoration option to improve them. You may schedule an appointment with us and opt for this service at affordable prices.
Why Do I Need Invisalign?
- Overly Crowded Teeth
If your teeth are overcrowded and do not have sufficient space within your jaw, it may become difficult for the remaining teeth to fit properly. Crowded teeth also result in the build-up of plaque and tartar in the mouth.
- Space Between Teeth
We recommend Invisalign if you have excessive space between your teeth. Unwanted space between the teeth occurs because of the unusual jawbone growth. If not addressed, it may cause gum problems.
- Crossbite
When your upper and lower jaw is not aligned, it leads to a crossbite. The problem causes chipping of your teeth and leads to several periodontal disorders, resulting in gum disease and loss of bone.
- Underbite
Under this condition, your lower teeth are thrust outward from your front teeth. It happens because of the abnormal growth of your upper jaw. Invisalign can treat underbite and align your jaw.
- Overbite
Overbite is the condition when your upper teeth overlap your lower teeth. One of the reasons for this problem is genetics. It may also happen because of the overgrowth of your bone and poor oral hygiene. If left untreated, it may cause chipped or fractured teeth.
What is the Procedure of Invisalign?
- We will assess your dental condition using a dental check-up and X-rays and create a customized treatment plan based on your bone structure and teeth.
- With the use of 3D technology imaging, we will monitor your teeth. These images will be sent to the dental lab for the creation of an impression resembling your dental structure.
- After the creation of the mold, we will call you to try them. We will check for the fitting of the mold and make necessary attachments. If the tray doesn’t fit you, we will send it to the lab for alterations.
- Once your Invisalign tray is ready, we will fit it into your mouth. Visit us so that we may monitor your treatment.
How to Care for Invisalign?
Wear your Invisalign 20-22 hours a day. Remove them while eating food and brushing your teeth. Do not consume alcohol or smoke cigarettes with aligners as it may lead to staining.
To find out more about the dental services we offer at Montpelier Family Dentistry, Laurel, MD, call (301) 812-4599 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit Dentist in Laurel MD at 14502 Greenview Dr #100, Laurel, MD, 20708.