What Is Invisalign®?
The Invisalign® system of clear aligner trays functions similarly to traditional metal braces. They gently guide misaligned teeth into their proper position, and the procedure can take up to 18 months, depending on the degree of correction needed.
Who Is A Good Candidate for Invisalign®?
Most adults and older teens who are in good health and whose teeth have fully erupted are good candidates for the Invisalign® system. Young teens and children aren’t usually good candidates for Invisalign® because their teeth haven’t fully erupted, so it’s difficult to design their trays. Those who have severe malocclusion or complicated orthodontic issues might do better with a different type of braces.
Does Insurance Cover Invisalign®?
Many dental plans will cover the cost of some orthodontic procedures, but there may be an annual or lifetime limit. The best source of information on your plan benefits is your plan provider. If you still have questions after speaking to your provider, then call us, and we’ll try to help you.
How Much Does Invisalign® Cost?
Southern Dental Associates is currently offering a special on the Invisalign® system. Our special price is $3995 with zero down and monthly payments as low as $85 per month. Call us today if you’re interested in this special.
How Long Will The Invisalign® Treatment Take?
Your treatment time will be unique to you, but the average treatment time is usually between 12 and 18 months. You’ll start noticing the difference within a few weeks.
How Often Will I Receive New Trays?
You’ll receive a new set of aligner trays approximately every two weeks, and you’ll come to our Southern Dental Associates office every four to six weeks. We need to monitor your progress and ensure that your treatments are going as planned or if we need to make any adjustments.
What Happens If I Break Or Lose An Aligner?
If you break or lose one or both of your aligner trays, then call our Southern Dental Associates office immediately. We’ll get you a replacement as soon as possible. Your trays don’t work if you’re not wearing them, so it’s vital to let us know as soon as possible if you break or lose a tray.
Can I Remove My Trays?
You’ll need to remove your Invisalign® aligner trays whenever you eat or drink anything except clear water. Be sure to brush and floss thoroughly before you reinsert your trays. Otherwise, decay can start to form. Your trays can be removed for special events, but you need to wear them between 20 and 22 hours each day for them to be effective.
How Do I Clean My Aligner Trays?
The Invisalign® Cleaning System is the best way to clean your aligner trays. It’s available from your doctor or online. However, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle toothpaste to clean your trays. Rinse them in lukewarm water before reinserting them. Don’t ever use hot water on your trays because you can damage or warp them.
Are The Invisalign® Aligner Trays Painful?
Your trays are made of a soft, space-age plastic that shouldn’t cause pain. When you insert new trays, you may feel a slight pressure as the trays begin to move your teeth into a new alignment, but that should dissipate within a day or two. If you continue to feel discomfort, then call us.
Is The Plastic Safe?
The Invisalign® system uses SmartTrack®, which is a space-age plastic that’s been approved by the FDA. It’s free of BPA, BPS, latex, and gluten, so it’s safe for most people.
Does Invisalign® Work If You’ve Had Reconstructive Dental Work?
Your dentist will need to examine your teeth and gums to determine whether the Invisalign® system will work with your reconstructive dentistry. This includes crowns and veneers. Call us for an appointment to learn whether Invisalign® is a good solution for you.
My Teeth Have Shifted Since I Removed Braces. Will Invisalign® Help Me?
Yes, Invisalign® should be able to correct your current misalignment. Many people whose teeth have reverted to their former position after they removed their braces have used Invisalign® to restore their teeth to proper alignment.
Why Is Invisalign® So Popular?
The primary reason for the popularity of Invisalign® is its invisibility. The trays are virtually invisible when you’re wearing them, which is especially ideal for more mature adults or older teens who are concerned about aesthetics. The clear aligner trays are also considerably more comfortable than the wire-and-bracket system of traditional metal braces.
What About DIY Mail-Order Trays?
Some people may be tempted to try the DIY mail-order route, but it’s a bad idea. There are many factors involved in straightening your teeth. The procedure is best performed by a professional dentist who can determine if you’re a good candidate and monitor your progress. Using the DIY treatment for aligner trays would be similar to trying to set a broken leg using a video from the internet: Bad idea.
Will My Teeth Stay Straight?
Your doctor will probably recommend that you wear a retainer after your Invisalign® treatment has concluded. Retainers are worn only at night, but they keep your teeth from reverting to misalignment. Your doctor will advise you if you need to wear a retainer and, if so, for how long.
Ready to Get Started?
Please contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our dentists for a consultation regarding Invisalign® treatment in Advance, Lewisville, or Wilkesboro.
