Dental Hygiene Glossary - Invisalign
The Process Of Getting Invisalign
Consultation
Your Invisalign journey starts with a consultation with an Invisalign-trained orthodontist. During this initial meeting, the orthodontist will assess your smile and discuss your goals to determine if Invisalign is the best solution. This is the perfect time to ask questions and express concerns.
Custom Treatment Plan
The next step is creating your custom treatment plan. Utilizing cutting-edge technology, your orthodontist will take a detailed 3D scan of your mouth, replacing the need for traditional dental impressions. The 3D scans provide a foundation for designing a series of clear aligners tailored specifically to your dental structure.
Receiving Your Aligners
You'll receive your custom aligners and detailed instructions on using them. Each set of aligners is worn for about one to two weeks before moving on to the next in the series. They should be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day, only being removed for eating, drinking some beverages, and your oral hygiene routine.
Regular Check-Ups
Throughout the course of your Invisalign treatment, you'll have periodic check-ups with your orthodontist. These appointments are essential for monitoring your progress and ensuring the aligners fit. Typically, Invisalign requires fewer visits than traditional braces.
Progress And Patience
While the duration of treatment varies depending on the individual case, the average time frame is between 12 and 18 months. Patience and commitment are key, as is persisting with your oral hygiene routine to ensure the healthiest result for your newly aligned smile.
Benefits Of Choosing Invisalign
Virtually Invisible
One of the most appealing aspects of Invisalign is its near invisibility. The clear aligners ensure that your orthodontic treatment doesn't interfere with your appearance. This feature particularly benefits adults and teens who may feel self-conscious about wearing traditional metal braces.
Removable And Convenient
Invisalign aligners are completely removable, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods and drinks without restrictions. This removability also makes maintaining your oral hygiene routine easier, ensuring healthy teeth and gums throughout treatment.
Fewer Office Visits
When using the Invisalign system, regular check-ups with your orthodontist are spaced out. Plus, many issues can be resolved through simple virtual check-ins, further supporting our commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Improved Oral Health
Aligning your teeth can lead to healthier teeth and gums. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of periodontal disease. Since Invisalign aligners are removable, you can stay efficient with your dental routine, utilizing products like Plus Ultra’s Electric Toothbrush Replacement Heads to ensure your mouth stays healthy throughout treatment.
Potential Downsides And Limitations Of Invisalign
Not Suitable For All Orthodontic Issues
Invisalign is highly effective for many dental alignment issues, including overbite, underbite, crossbite, gap, and crowded teeth. However, in certain complex orthodontic cases, It might not be the best option.
Requires Discipline And Commitment
The success of the treatment heavily depends on the wearer's commitment to wearing the aligners for the recommended 20 to 22 hours a day. Failure to adhere to this guideline can prolong the treatment duration or compromise the desired results.
Potential For Discomfort
Like traditional braces, Invisalign treatment involves moving teeth gradually over time, which can result in discomfort or tenderness, especially when switching to a new set of aligners.
Maintenance And Upkeep
Invisalign aligners require regular cleaning to prevent staining and buildup of bacteria. Neglecting proper upkeep can lead to discolored aligners and potential oral health issues. Developing a consistent cleaning routine for your aligners is crucial for maintaining oral hygiene and ensuring the invisibility feature of Invisalign.
Cost Analysis: Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces
Initial Cost And Insurance Coverage
The initial cost of Invisalign tends to be higher than traditional metal braces. On average, the price for Invisalign can range from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on the case's complexity and the treatment duration. In contrast, traditional braces usually cost between $2,500 and $6,000.
However, many dental insurance plans now offer coverage for Invisalign treatment, much like conventional braces. The coverage amount can vary, so it's crucial to check with your insurance provider to understand what is covered and to what extent.
Additional Costs To Consider
Beyond the initial cost of treatment, there are additional factors that can affect the overall financial investment in your orthodontic care:
- Maintenance And Repairs: Traditional braces may require additional visits to the orthodontist for maintenance or to address issues such as broken wires or brackets. On the other hand, Invisalign aligners have no parts that can break or require adjusting, which may lead to fewer unexpected costs over time.
- Orthodontic Check-Ups: Invisalign treatment generally requires fewer in-office check-ups than traditional braces. This reduction not only saves time but potentially reduces travel and associated costs.
- Post-Treatment Retainers: Invisalign and traditional braces usually require a retainer after treatment to prevent teeth from gradually shifting back to their original position.
Ultimately, the decision between Invisalign and traditional braces should consider the cost, insurance coverage, additional expenses, and the unique benefits each option offers. Consulting with an orthodontist can clarify the total investment and help you choose the best path to achieve a natural and beautiful smile. Then consider enhancing your new smile with Plus Ultra’s Premium Teeth Whitening Strips, our eco-friendly, 14-day treatment to make your teeth shine brighter.
Read also:
- Can I Use An Electric Toothbrush With Braces?
- Why You Should Switch To A Soft Bristle Toothbrush
- The Benefits Of Using A Bamboo Toothbrush
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an innovative orthodontic system that aligns and straightens teeth without traditional metal braces. It uses a series of clear, custom-made, removable aligners that gradually move teeth into their desired position.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign works through a series of aligners tailored to your teeth, each slightly different from the one before. Over two weeks, you wear each aligner, which applies specific pressure to the teeth that need to be moved.
What are aligners?
Aligners are thin, clear plastic orthodontic devices that fit snugly over your teeth. Unlike braces, they are removable and less noticeable.
Is Invisalign better than braces?
Invisalign offers a more aesthetic, removable, and less noticeable solution. However, traditional braces might be more suitable for complex dental issues.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
The duration of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the case's complexity but typically ranges from 12 to 18 months.
What is the cost of Invisalign?
The cost of Invisalign can vary widely based on the specifics of your treatment plan, such as the complexity of your dental issues and the duration of treatment.
Is Invisalign painful?
While Invisalign is generally not considered painful, some individuals may experience temporary discomfort or pressure for a few days at the beginning of each new stage of treatment.
Can I eat while wearing Invisalign?
No, you should remove your Invisalign aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. Eating with the aligners can damage them and hinder your treatment.
How do I clean my aligners?
To maintain your aligners, rinse them under lukewarm water every night and brush them gently with a toothbrush. Avoid using hot water as it can warp the plastic.
Can Invisalign fix gaps in teeth?
Invisalign can effectively treat gaps between teeth, among other dental issues like overcrowding, crossbite, underbite, and overbite.