How Invisalign Can Fix Your Smile

Dental Atlanta

These days, both children and adults are opting for removable braces, better known as Invisalign, which offers a great alternative to fixed braces. Because they fit in so well with a busy lifestyle, these clear braces are a very popular option.

How Invisalign Works

The Invisalign clear plastic trays are molded to fit over your teeth and slowly adjust your alignment over time, just like the traditional metal brackets and wires do, but they’re clear and very hard to see. The Invisalign trays are removable so you can take them out when you eat and to brush and floss your teeth.

What to Expect From the First Appointment

The dentist will perform a 3D scan of your teeth using the iTero Element scanner. Gone are the days of those yucky cement-like molds. A 3D image of your teeth is captured, and the shifts required of your teeth are mapped. In fact, the dentist can show you a preview of your smile before you even get started with Invisalign.

Once you do get started, the dentist works with Invisalign to fine-tune each tooth. Invisalign has special software called ClinCheck® that performs this important function.

The aligner trays are made of BPA-free clear plastic, and new trays are required every two weeks. The dentist will still require you to visit the office every 4 to 6 weeks to get your new trays and for the dentist to check your progress. Each of the clear aligner trays is worn for approximately two weeks. For patients with mild spacing problems, Invisalign is a great option, but they are typically worn longer than traditional braces, ranging from 18 months to 3 years.

Am I An Invisalign Candidate?

The Invisalign option is usually for less severe cases where teeth just need to be slightly shifted. More severe problems like closing large tooth gaps or correcting excessive tooth crowding are better suited for metal braces.

Trays must be worn about 22 hours per day for up to 18 months to straighten your teeth. You can wear the trays when drinking water, but must remove them when drinking anything else and eating to avoid staining.

Patients who have bridgework or certain bite issues are not good candidates for Invisalign. Most importantly, you must have the discipline to wear the trays for at least 22 hours daily.

What Does Invisalign Cost?

Invisalign can be a bit pricier than metal braces. For Invisalign, the cost generally ranges from $3,500 to $8,000, with regular braces in the $2,500 to $6,000 price range. Everyone is different, and your cost will depend on the extent of alignment your teeth need and how many aligners will be needed. The good news is that most dental insurance plans will cover Invisalign as an option, just as they would regular braces.

Choose Invisalign

Invisalign “invisible” braces are a newer option of customized orthodontic treatment that is less visible and conveniently removable. Since adults tend to stick with it regarding routine and wearing the trays better than teens do, this is a great option. Most adults prefer the Invisalign option over traditional metal braces. Contact us at Buckhead Cosmetic & Family Dentistry to determine whether Invisalign is right for you.