Invisalign® is an innovative teeth straightening treatment designed to gradually correct a variety of orthodontic issues. Using a series of clear aligners, Invisalign® is a more discreet and convenient alternative to traditional metal braces, making it popular with teenagers and adults seeking orthodontic care. In addition to offering subtle treatment, Invisalign® is also often able to straighten teeth in less time than conventional methods, and can potentially reduce the frequency of check-ups needed during treatment.
If you are interested in learning more about Invisalign®, we encourage you to read through the sections on this page and/or schedule a consultation with our experienced cosmetic dentist, Dr. Martin Gorman. During your appointment, Dr. Gorman can answer any questions you may have and determine if Invisalign® can help you achieve your smile goals.
How Does Invisalign® Work?
Based on your individual treatment plan, Dr. Gorman will have several custom aligners made for you throughout the Invisalign® process. Each set of clear aligners is slightly different, helping to gradually shift the teeth into the desired position. Aside from certain situations, such as when you are eating or brushing your teeth, the aligners should be worn all day for approximately two weeks at a time (or as directed by Dr. Gorman). After that period, you will switch to your next set of aligners. The amount of aligners needed to complete treatment will depend on the complexity of your orthodontic issues, as well as your individual needs.
Will Invisalign® Work for Me?
Invisalign® is designed to treat a wide variety of orthodontic concerns, but the severity of your specific case will determine whether or not Invisalign® is an appropriate option. Dr. Gorman can conduct a thorough examination to help decide whether or not Invisalign® can work for you. However, in many cases, Invisalign® is able to treat individuals experiencing one or more the following:
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Openbite
- Crowding
- Gapped teeth
- Crossbite
The Invisalign® Process
To create your customized treatment plan, Dr. Gorman uses a computer-generated 3D model of your teeth. Once the plan has been mapped out, your custom-designed aligners can be made. Several sets of aligners will be constructed; each one slightly different than the last, helping to gently shift your teeth into proper alignment. Dr. Gorman will provide you with specific instructions for how long to wear each set, but most patients will need to wear them 20-22 hours per day for about two weeks. Periodically, you will need to come into our office to obtain your next set of aligners and ensure treatment is progressing appropriately. In some cases, you may be able to receive multiple sets of aligners within a single visit. If Dr. Gorman’s directions for proper wear and care are carefully followed, orthodontic correction should advance as planned. Most patients achieve straight teeth after 9-12 months, but certain patients have been able to reach their desired results in as little as 6 months.
Does Invisalign® Hurt?
When first wearing a new aligner, the majority of Invisalign® patients describe feeling a sensation of “pressure,” which is actually a good sign as it indicates the teeth are being shifted and straightened as intended. Rarely do patients say they experienced pain or notable discomfort during treatment, but if any soreness does occur, over-the-counter medicine is usually able to provide sufficient relief. The smooth design of Invisalign® trays also keeps the soft tissues of the mouth from being cut or scratched, which is sometimes an issue with traditional orthodontic techniques. Ultimately, when compared to metal braces, Invisalign® is widely regarded as quite comfortable.
How Do I Clean and Care for My Invisalign® Aligners?
For proper cleaning and care, Dr. Gorman recommends rinsing your Invisalign® trays with lukewarm water at least twice per day, as well as gently brushing them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and anti-bacterial hand or dish soap.* Additionally, you should always take your aligners out to eat or drink anything apart from water, and be sure to brush and floss your teeth before putting them back into your mouth. Following this advice can help protect your Invisalign® aligners from discoloration, keeping them clear and in prime condition throughout their use.
*It is important to avoid rinsing Invisalign® trays under hot water, as high temperatures can distort the plastic. Additionally, brushing aligners with abrasive cleaning solutions—such as most toothpastes—can create microscopic scratches in which harmful bacteria may collect, so avoidance of these products when sanitizing Invisalign® trays is advised.
How Much Does Invisalign® Cost?
On average, Invisalign® treatment costs about $5,500-$6,700, but the price of Invisalign® can vary based on your unique needs. Some of the factors that can affect the cost include the complexity of your case, amount of aligners needed, extent of necessary in-office care, and longevity of treatment. Ultimately, Invisalign® is an investment in your future oral health, but we do not want price to prevent you from achieving the dazzling (and healthy) smile you desire—to help make the overall cost more manageable, we offer low and no interest payment plans through CareCredit® financing for qualified applicants.
Learn More About Invisalign®
If you have more questions about Invisalign® or want to discover if it is right for you, please contact our office today. We can address your questions and help you schedule a consultation with Dr. Gorman.