FAQ- Invisalign

Invisalign takes a modern approach to straightening teeth, using a custom-made series of aligners created for you and only you. These aligner trays are made of smooth, comfortable, and virtually invisible plastic that you wear over your teeth. Wearing the aligners will gradually and gently shift your teeth into place over time. There are no metal brackets to attach and no wires to tighten. You simply pop in a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks until your treatment is complete and you achieve the confident smile you’ve always wanted. The best part about the whole process is that most people won’t even know you’re straightening your teeth.

Unlike braces, Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to gradually move your teeth over time. The aligner trays are clear and barely noticeable, so no one will be able to tell you’re wearing them. In addition to being invisible, the aligners are also removable, so you can take them out to eat, drink, brush, and floss. You can simply pop them back in after you’re done! This convenience allows you to continue eating your favorite foods while undergoing orthodontic treatment. If your dentist recommends them as a solution to your orthodontic needs, then they’re probably the best option for you! Plus, their numerous benefits make them a smart investment all around. And because they’re made from a smooth plastic material, they won’t irritate your mouth like traditional braces.

Orthodontics has changed over the years, and patients have more options than ever when it comes to deciding between traditional braces or clear aligners like Invisalign. While both are effective for straightening teeth, there are benefits to choosing one method over the other. Here is a look at some of the benefits of Invisalign over traditional braces:

One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign is that patients don’t need to use wires or brackets to realign their teeth. This makes them more comfortable than traditional braces, which can irritate the gums and cause discomfort in the mouth. In addition, there is no metal attached to the teeth, which can make eating much easier for patients. Traditional braces make it difficult to eat certain foods because they may get stuck in the wires or bend out of shape, but with Invisalign, patients can eat and drink whatever they like.

Invisalign is more convenient than a traditional orthodontic treatment plan because patients don’t have to make as many trips to the dentist’s office over the course of their treatment. With braces, patients usually need to visit the office every six to eight weeks to have wires tightened. Not only does this require multiple appointments, but it also requires an inconvenient amount of time in the waiting room. However, with Invisalign, patients simply need to wear each set of aligners for a few weeks before switching to the next set in the series. Many patients are even able to complete their treatments in about one year with Invisalign.

Patients can also expect better oral hygiene during treatment with Invisalign compared to traditional braces. Patients who choose braces may experience a higher risk for tooth decay due to the buildup of plaque around the brackets, which can cause cavities and other oral health problems. With Invisalign, there aren’t any brackets or wires to worry about.

Although Invisalign is not used to treat extensive orthodontic issues, it can fix a variety of mild to moderate concerns. Some of the most common problems corrected by Invisalign include the following:

  • Crowding (small or minor gaps between teeth)
  • Overbite (overjet)
  • Underbite (underjet)
  • Crossbite
  • Open bite
  • Crooked or misaligned teeth
  • Gapped teeth

On average, treatment time takes around twelve to eighteen months with Invisalign. However, every patient is different, and your treatment time could be shorter or longer depending on the severity of your case and the goals you wish to achieve. During your appointments, we will discuss the estimated length of your treatment and progress updates to ensure that you remain on track.

If you have severe misalignment or bite issues, you may have to wear your aligners for a longer amount of time than someone who only wants to improve the appearance of their smile rather than correct orthodontic problems.

First, your dentist will take photos of your teeth and send them on to the lab that fabricates your aligners. Your dentist will also use 3D imaging to map out a precise treatment plan for you. Then, a series of custom-made aligners will be made just for you. You’ll wear each aligner for about two weeks before switching to the next one in the series, and you’ll only need to visit our practice once every four to six weeks for checkups. That’s it! You just pop in a new set of aligners every two weeks until treatment is complete!

For Invisalign treatment, your dentist needs to see you about once every month or two to monitor your progress and make any needed changes. You will need to be evaluated to make sure the aligners are fitting properly, and you’ll need to have your aligners replaced monthly. 

The frequency with which you come into the office will depend on a number of factors, including how well you respond to treatment and how quickly your teeth move. Some patients only have to come into the office every couple of months, while others have to come in more frequently.

Scheduling an appointment with our Dentist in Mesa, AZ, for an exam is the best way to determine if you are a candidate for Invisalign. We will assess your overall oral health and provide recommendations for the treatment that is best for you.

Location

4135 S Power Rd STE 101,
Mesa, AZ 85212

Office Hours

MON - THU8:00 am - 5:00 pm

FRI9:00 am - 1:00 pm

SAT - SUNClosed