The cost of Invisalign braces varies depending on your dental insurance plan. Your dentist will work with your insurance provider to make sure you get the best coverage for aligners and checkups.
The first step is to consult with an orthodontist or dentist who is trained in Invisalign treatment. They will take 3D scans of your teeth and design a treatment plan that will meet your needs.
Cost
You may want to consider getting a credit card with a 0 percent APR introductory rate and use it as a financing option for your Invisalign treatment. This way, you can break the cost into affordable monthly payments.
During the initial visit, your orthodontist will take a 3D scan of your mouth and use it to create a customized treatment plan for you. Depending on your case, you may need additional appliances like an expander or a holding arch, which will increase the overall price of the treatment. You will also need to wear your aligners for 20-22 hours a day, as directed by your orthodontist.
Appearance
The appearance of Invisalign braces is much more discreet than traditional braces. Patients wear a series of clear BPA-free plastic aligners that are virtually invisible. They are advised to keep them on for 20-22 hours per day, only removing them when eating or brushing their teeth. Every one to two weeks, they switch to the next set of trays.
It is not uncommon for people to feel self-conscious about the appearance of their straightened teeth. However, they should remember that they are not the only ones with crooked teeth.
Invisalign braces can correct a wide range of teeth problems including crowded teeth, spacing issues and mild bite problems. These treatments also have a positive impact on your overall health and self-esteem. With a great smile, you can face the world with confidence.
Comfort
While moving teeth can be uncomfortable at times, it is much less painful than traditional braces. There is also less risk of mouth and gum issues when wearing Invisalign. There are no metal wires or brackets to rub against the inside of your cheeks.
The aligners are clear so they can be worn in most social situations. The aligners are removable which means that you can take them out when eating or playing sports. This allows you to enjoy most foods without restriction, as opposed to having to avoid some of the harder or crunchy foods that are usually off-limits with traditional braces. This freedom also promotes better oral hygiene as you are able to brush and floss your teeth without having to worry about getting food stuck in your braces.
Hygiene
Although Invisalign aligners provide a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces, they require regular maintenance and hygiene. Poor oral hygiene can lead to a variety of problems, including food build-up in the plastic trays, bad breath, and gum irritation. You can use a denture cleaner or Invisalign cleaning crystals to keep your aligners clean.
Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day and after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing is important for removing plaque from tight spaces that your toothbrush cannot reach. Rinse your mouth with lukewarm water after brushing and flossing. In addition, you should avoid eating and drinking staining foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and heavily pigmented sauces. Lastly, regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining oral health and for monitoring the progress of your Invisalign treatment.
Time
Once the orthodontist assesses your condition, they can provide you with a customized treatment plan and estimated time frame for using Invisalign to straighten your teeth. This timeline varies depending on your unique needs, such as the severity of your alignment/bite issues. The treatment length is also influenced by how much you wear the aligners. It’s important to follow your orthodontist’s recommendations, including wearing the aligners as instructed and keeping them free of food debris and bacteria.
Invisalign is a relatively quick way to fix common dental misalignments. Generally, the treatment lasts 12-18 months for adults. However, it may take longer for teens because their teeth and jaws are still growing. Patients who don’t follow the orthodontist’s recommended amount of wear (about 20-22 hours per day) will likely see their treatment length increase.