Do you hate smiling in photos? Are you tired of hiding behind a tight smile? If your smile is getting you down, Invisalign treatment might be a great option for you!
Invisalign invisible braces have been growing in popularity for years. Gone are the days when straight teeth meant a painful and conspicuous set of metal braces. Now you can have the discreet, gradual alignment that comes from Invisalign’s clear plastic trays.
Invisalign is great for most people, but before you head to your orthodontist, it’s good to have some questions in mind. Read on for 7 questions to ask your orthodontist about Invisalign treatment.
1. How Does Invisalign Treatment Work?
Your orthodontist will have had specialist training in the Invisalign treatment. They’ll be able to show you a sample set of Invisalign aligners and talk you through the process.
In a nutshell, Invisalign treatment works by aligning your teeth using a set of clear, plastic aligners. The aligners are replaced every week or so, and they apply pressure to particular teeth. Bit by bit they move your teeth into better alignment, giving you a straighter smile.
2. How Safe Is Invisalign?
Invisalign treatment is approved by the FDA as a Class II medical device. They have had this approval since 1998 and have proved over time to be a safe and effective treatment for correcting the alignment of teeth.
Additionally, Invisalign has received FDA approval for a more advanced version of its original product. This is a treatment that can correct jaw positioning issues in teens.
Invisalign trays are made from a proprietory, medical-grade plastic. This is BPA-free and is safe for long-term use in the body.
3. What Issues Can Invisalign Treat?
Primarily, Invisalign treatment is effective for realigning crooked and twisted teeth. It can help to reduce small gaps between teeth and help to create a less crowded appearance. It can also treat underbite and overbite issues.
Invisalign can treat a wide range of issues and is suitable for many people. However, your orthodontist will first examine your mouth and the particular issues you are facing. They will then be able to advise you on the best course of action. If you have large gaps or complex issues, they may recommend traditional braces as a more suitable option.
4. Can I Remove the Aligners?
Yes, you can! In fact, this is one of the key Invisalign benefits that many users love!
Your orthodontist will advise you exactly how many hours a day you should wear your Invisalign aligners. Invisalign treatment generally works best when you keep them in for between 20-22 hours per day. That means that they stay in all night. They’re a snug fit, so you don’t have to worry about them falling out.
Although they’re virtually invisible, you may prefer to take them out if you’re having your photo taken. No special equipment is needed. You just need to be able to give them a quick clean and remember to bring your Invisalign case with you.
You will also need to take them out before eating and drinking. This means that you can eat without worrying about food getting stuck in your braces. It’s also easy to clean your teeth with Invisalign!
5. Does Invisalign Hurt?
During Invisalign treatment, aligners apply pressure to individual teeth. This then causes them to move little by little. When you first put a new set of aligners in, it’s normal to feel some discomfort.
You might even get a ‘loose teeth’ feeling for the first few days. Don’t worry, this is totally normal. Your orthodontist will advise you exactly what is happening in your mouth, and what you can expect to feel.
The first few days after putting in a new set of aligners may be a little uncomfortable. However, as the teeth start adapting to their new positions, the gum around them will start to heal the discomfort will decrease or even go away.
6. How Long Does the Treatment Last?
In the debate about Invisalign vs braces, treatment time is one of the hottest questions.
Invisalign does work a little more slowly than a traditional brace. Everybody’s teeth are different, and take a different amount of time to correct. On average, you can expect your Invisalign treatment time to be around 12 – 18 months.
The great thing is that with Invisalign treatment, you don’t have to wait for the big reveal to see results! You will begin to see changes within weeks. As the aligners continue to fine-tune your smile, you’ll get the benefit of increased confidence, even before the treatment is over.
7. How Much Does Invisalign Cost?
On average in the United States, Invisalign cost is in the region of $3000-5000. This is an average cost and should only be considered a ball part figure. This is similar to the average cost of traditional braces.
The reason we say this is because every patient is different. Patients have different issues and different expectations. When you meet with your orthodontist, they will analyze your individual smile.
They’ll discuss the treatment outcomes you are looking for. The more complex and time-consuming the treatment, the greater the overall cost. Your orthodontist will be happy to provide you with a detailed quotation so that you can calculate whether it’s a good option for you.
Next Step – Book the Appointment
Now you’re fully briefed on the questions you need to ask your orthodontist about Invisalign treatment! Armed with this information you’ll be ready to have a productive first visit, and potentially take the first step on the road to straighter teeth!
If you’re still wondering, ‘Is Invisalign Worth It?’, make sure you discuss this with your orthodontist. They’re committed to finding the right treatment that will best serve your dental needs.
The team at Jacobus Orthodontics is ready and waiting to advise you. Contact us today to book an initial appointment and get your Invisalign journey started.