In years past, metal braces were the only option to correct dental misalignment. Patients spent years wearing bulky brackets and wires, which dramatically affected both their appearance and their self-esteem. But today’s orthodontic patients have more options than ever before. Invisalign can correct a wide range of orthodontic issues using clear aligners, which are more comfortable and discreet than traditional braces.
At Austin Laser Dentist, Dr. Helen Ragsdale proudly offers this innovative treatment. Read on to learn the answers to some common questions about Invisalign. Then contact us to schedule a consultation and to find out whether this orthodontic option is right for you.
How long does Invisalign take?
The length of treatment will depend on the type and severity of your dental misalignment. Some patients complete treatment in just six months, but others need to wear their aligners for a year or more. Average treatment time is nine to fifteen months. In any case, many patients start to see an improvement after just a few weeks.
What problems can Invisalign correct?
Invisalign can correct most of the same problems as traditional braces. These concerns include:
- Underbites
- Overbites
- Crossbites
- Open bites
- Gaps between teeth
- Crowded teeth
- General misalignment
Because Invisalign can address so many different problems, more than 12 million people have opted for this treatment.
Does Invisalign cost more than braces?
No. Typically, the cost of Invisalign is comparable to the cost of standard braces. Furthermore, if you undergo orthodontic treatment for health reasons, insurance will often cover some of the cost. We also offer flexible financing options to help with any out-of-pocket expenses.
Does Invisalign hurt?
About every two weeks, you will receive a new aligner, which will exert a gentle pressure on your teeth. When you first wear the new aligner, you may experience some slight soreness. However, this discomfort is typically much less than the discomfort patients experience when metal braces are tightened. Moreover, the smooth surface of Invisalign trays will not irritate your lips or cheeks.
Do I have to change my diet?
When you wear regular braces, certain foods like popcorn, nuts, chewing gum – and even pizza crust! – are off limits because they can damage the wires. When you wear Invisalign, you will remove your clear aligners to eat, so you don’t have to make any dietary adjustments.
How do I care for the aligners?
Maintaining your aligners is easy. You should brush and rinse them daily, using Invisalign Cleaning Crystals or a similar solution. You should also brush and floss your teeth every time you eat. Doing so will keep food from becoming trapped in the aligners and increasing your risk for decay.
How do I maintain the results of treatment?
As with standard braces, you will need to wear a retainer to keep your straighter teeth in place. Dr. Ragsdale will provide a custom-made appliance and advise you about how often to wear it. Many patients only need to wear a retainer at night.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Still have questions about Invisalign or wondering if you are a candidate for treatment? Contact Austin Laser Dentist today. You can make an appointment online or call us at (512) 346-4690.
