Comfortable, efficient, effective - that’s Invisalign, the orthodontic treatment that aligns your teeth like traditional metal braces, but without using wires or brackets. Instead, Invisalign relies on a series of clear aligners to position your teeth. The aligners are shaped from images that are computer-generated and based on a digital scan of your teeth by your dentist.
How the Invisalign System Works
The Invisalign system’s aligners gradually move your teeth into straighter positions. You change aligners every few weeks during your treatment, so each time you put a new aligner into your mouth, your teeth are a little bit straighter. With each tray shaped for teeth slightly straighter than your own, a gentle pressure moves your teeth to meet the aligner over time.
Invisalign’s clear plastic aligners shift your teeth incrementally into a new position to fit the aligner shape. About once every six or eight weeks, you visit your dentist to be sure treatment is progressing properly.
Why Use Invisalign?
There are many advantages to the Invisalign system versus standard metal braces. Made from clear plastic, they’re almost invisible to other people, and they’re more comfortable, too. Afterall, you can remove them for 2 to 4 hours every day, while metal braces are worn all the time no matter how uncomfortable they might feel, for twenty-four hours a day, every day.
Invisalign also makes it easier to care for your teeth. Metal braces can make it necessary to change your dental hygiene routine and some of your food choices, but Invisalign lets you brush and floss normally by just removing the trays. And you also enjoy any food you want without worrying about the metal braces and wires of traditional braces.
Invisalign works well to treat kids, teens, and adults. But you must wear them as directed every day or the treatment may not be effective.
Traditional Braces or Invisalign? Which is Cheaper?
While Invisalign may cost slightly more than traditional metal braces at first glance, the Invisalign process’ comfort, convenience, and discreet appearance still make it a terrific choice. And the basic cost differences can be very minimal. Traditional braces range from around $3000 to $6000, while Invisalign will range between $3000 and $7000. Plus, the cost of Invisalign varies based on your needs. In the end, Invisalign may cost a little less or a little more than standard metal braces.
Here’s another Invisalign plus: many times, you’ll need to wear Invisalign for less time than metal braces. While metal braces typically take about 2 years for treatment, Invisalign ranges from 6 months to 18 months on average. Less time means less cost, and more convenience.
While most full mouth Invisalign treatments take from 10 to 18 months, limited treatments such as straightening just a few front teeth, can take only 3 to 6 months.
Our dental team can help with financial inquiries for Invisalign, including checking to see if your dental insurance plan offers any orthodontic benefits. We can help make Invisalign more affordable overall and work with you to come up with a payment plan that best fits your budget.
Ready to Learn More about Invisalign?
If you’re ready to learn more about Invisalign, we’re here to help! Simply reach out to us today, and our team will be happy to schedule a consultation or discuss your options for straighter teeth.
