Invisalign® Clear Aligners Midlothian

How Invisalign® Works

Traditional braces use small metal wires and brackets to slowly bring the teeth into alignment, and this is actually a very effective method. While the function of Invisalign is identical, this treatment method uses a custom-made series of plastic aligner trays that slip over the teeth. As a patient wears each one, it gradually moves the teeth into the perfect position. Once a patient has gone through their entire series, they’ll have a gorgeously straight smile to greet them in the mirror every morning.

Who Invisalign® Can Help

If you’re interested in Invisalign, take the first step: contact Marvel Dental and schedule a consultation with us. At this appointment, your dentist will ask you about your smile goals as well as perform a brief oral exam. With this information, they can help you determine if Invisalign is indeed the best solution for your smile. Below, you will find a little more information on what orthodontic issues clear aligners can correct – read on!

Crowded Teeth

If your teeth overlap, then the look, health, and function of your smile can suffer. That’s why we recommend scheduling an appointment with us to explore your treatment options, like Invisalign. If you’re a candidate, then we will create a custom series of trays designed to move your teeth from where they are now to where they should be.

Gaps Between Teeth

Another common orthodontic problem is spaced-out teeth. Like crooked teeth, spaced-out teeth can negatively impact multiple aspects of your smile, including how it looks. So, don’t put off scheduling a consultation. The sooner you do, the sooner we can determine if clear aligners are right for you and, if they are, start the teeth-straightening process.

Bite Alignment

Invisalign has been proven to be effective at correcting more mild cases of common bite problems, including overbites. The first step is taking impressions of your teeth so your custom aligners can be crafted. Once we receive your trays, you’ll come to our office to pick them up, which is when your dentist will show you how to put them on and clean them.

Living with Invisalign Aligners

Invisalign aligners are the easier, more convenient way to straighten your teeth. These discreet, innovative trays can improve your bite, close minor gaps, and align your smile, all without the hassle of wires and brackets. But for your treatment to be successful, you’ll still need to make a few lifestyle modifications. Here’s what you need to know about living with Invisalign aligners!

Read More

Wearing Your Trays

Each set of your Invisalign aligners will need to be worn from 20 to 22 hours each day; every one to two weeks, you will switch to a brand-new set of aligners; however. the exact timeframe will depend on your individual treatment plan.

Failure to wear your aligners for the minimum 20 hours each day could set your treatment timeline back. The only times you should not wear them is when you are eating, drinking anything besides water, brushing and flossing your teeth, or cleaning your trays.

Cleaning Your Aligners

Part of keeping your teeth and gums healthy during Invisalign treatment is keeping your aligners clean. It is important to only use lukewarm or room temperature water to wash them. Because they’re plastic, using water that is too hot or cold could cause them to become warped or misshapen, rendering them ineffective.

Your trays should be rinsed each time before returning them to your mouth. You can properly clean them by soaking them in Invisalign cleansing crystals for 15 to 30 minutes each day, or by using a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear hand soap.

Also, be sure to keep your teeth and gums clean. You will need to brush and floss your teeth after each meal and before you put your aligners back in your mouth.

Eating & Drinking

Unlike traditional braces, the beauty of Invisalign is the freedom that comes along with it, including the ability to eat and drink whatever you want during treatment. However, it is very important that you remove your aligners each time you eat or drink anything besides water.

When you remove your aligners, be sure to rinse them well and store them in their protective case. This will prevent them from becoming lost or damaged.

Eating or drinking colored beverages while wearing your aligners can cause them to become discolored and ruin their discreet appearance, which of course is another one of the major benefits of choosing them over traditional braces!

Losing or Damaging a Tray

While losing or damaging an aligner isn’t a huge deal, it’s important to address the problem before it can set your treatment behind schedule. If your tray becomes broken or misplaced, contact Dr. Oza as soon as possible for further instructions. He may order you a replacement aligner, or you may be instructed to advance to your next one; however, this decision will depend on how close you are to needing to switch, and Dr. Oza’s discretion.

Routine Check-Ins

Your Invisalign check-ins will typically occur every four to eight weeks, depending on your individual treatment plan. These visits usually take about 15 minutes. During these appointments, Dr. Oza will provide you with your next series of aligners, and make sure your progress is still on schedule!

The Benefits of Invisalign®

To date, more than 17 million patients have chosen Invisalign. Here are a few reasons why:

• Subtle Appearance: The trays are practically invisible when worn on the teeth, meaning a patient can speak and smile with their friends and coworkers without having to worry about their treatment being noticed.
• Comfort: Every Invisalign tray is specially-designed for each patient using smooth plastic, ensuring it fits comfortably over the teeth without causing the lip or cheek irritation common with traditional braces.
• Convenience: Did we mention that the trays are REMOVABLE? This means, whether you’re getting ready to eat your favorite food or brush your teeth, you can just take your trays out. This enables Invisalign to seamlessly fit into anyone’s life without forcing them to alter their daily habits.
• Speed: Typically, an Invisalign treatment can be completed in just 12-18 months, which is just a fraction of the time compared to regular braces (which can take two to three years!).
• Time: Because Invisalign doesn’t have to be regularly adjusted like braces, you’ll only have to come to Marvel Dental for brief progress checks every six to eight weeks. These visits are usually about 15 minutes long.

How Much Does Invisalign® Cost?

Simply put, the cost of Invisalign is different for each patient. That’s because there are multiple factors that need to be taken into account, including the severity of the case. The good news is that we welcome dental insurance, we’re proud to welcome payment plans with CareCredit, and we offer periodic specials. So, we can help make the cost fit into your budget – whatever that may be!

Come Get Your Straighter Smile!

Don’t let a fear of braces prevent you from getting the smile you’ve always wanted any longer! You now have a clear path to straighter teeth thanks to Invisalign. To schedule an initial consultation and get started, contact Marvel Dental today.