Invisalign®

Invisalign: What Is It?

Invisalign is a treatment for many common dental problems, including overcrowding and gapped teeth. However, it can also correct an open bite, underbite, crossbite or overbite. The treatment involves wearing a series of removable, clear aligners or trays to gradually straighten your teeth.

The aligners are made of a patented thermoplastic material that’s thin and flexible to fit over your teeth. Invisalign clear braces don’t contain latex, gluten, bisphenol A or bisphenol S. In addition, they’re approved by the FDA.

Sometimes, Invisalign treatment also requires attachments, which are small shapes that match the color of your teeth. They act as handles that the aligners can gently push on to shift your teeth into the correct placement. These attachments make it possible for Invisalign to fix some complex dental issues. Talk to one of our knowledgeable dentists to find out if these attachments would be necessary for your treatment.

How Fast Does Invisalign Work?

After a consultation at our office, our dentists will develop a treatment plan according to the corrections that you need. A lab will create a series of clear aligners based on a model of your teeth and the adjustments that need to be made.

Then, you’ll wear one set of Invisalign braces for 20 to 22 hours a day for one or two weeks. After that, you’ll switch to the next set of trays in your treatment plan. Each set will apply force in the appropriate places to move your teeth into alignment. You’ll only take out the aligners while you eat, drink, brush your teeth and floss.

How long your Invisalign treatment takes will depend on the complexity of your dental problem. Our dentists will monitor your progress with follow-up appointments every four to six weeks. After the treatment is complete, you’ll be fitted for a retainer, which will prevent your teeth from moving back.

What’s Required to Care for Invisalign?

You’ll need to take good care of your Invisalign trays and retainers. Our dentists provide a cleaning system that’s made specifically for them. In addition to using that, you can brush the aligners with toothpaste and use lukewarm water to rinse. You’ll need to avoid using hot water on the aligners because it can warp the thin plastic.

Do Invisalign Dentists Need Special Training?

Not all dentists and orthodontists can offer Invisalign braces for treatment of misaligned teeth. Invisalign dentistry requires that dental professionals undergo specialized training. Contact us to learn more about our dentists treating you with Invisalign in Gainesville.

Invisalign vs. Braces: What’s the Difference?

The biggest difference between Invisalign vs. braces is the materials used. Traditional braces consist of brackets, bands and wires that are attached to the inside or outside surface of your teeth. Invisalign consists of clear trays that you wear over your teeth. While you can’t remove traditional braces, you can remove Invisalign trays.

What Are the Advantages of Invisalign?

The main Invisalign benefit is that the trays are nearly invisible. Unless other people know that you’re wearing them, they aren’t likely to notice. As a result, you’ll feel less self-conscious about your treatment. Also, you won’t have to worry about metal wires or brackets breaking or irritating the inside of your mouth.

Another big advantage is that you only have to make minor life changes to accommodate Invisalign. You don’t have to avoid certain foods or drinks. It’s also easier to keep your mouth clean because you don’t have to brush and floss between the brackets and wires that traditional braces require. Ask our one of our skilled Invisalign dentists about other advantages.

How Much Will Invisalign Cost?

There’s no set cost for Invisalign braces. However, your Invisalign cost may not be any more than getting traditional braces. As with metal braces, the complexity of your treatment will affect the price. The number of aligner sets you’ll need will also factor into the cost. Your dentist will be able to give you an accurate estimate after your consultation.

Is Invisalign Covered by Insurance?

The benefits offered under your dental insurance plan will determine whether any of your Invisalign cost will be covered. However, many insurers provide Invisalign insurance just as they cover other types of braces. The coverage will likely be a percentage or a specific dollar amount.

Although insurance typically doesn’t cover the entire cost, there are ways to make paying for Invisalign affordable. Flexible monthly payments are one option. Ask our helpful staff about how we can make your treatment affordable.

Does Invisalign Work for Everyone?

Invisalign is a great solution for teens and adults who don’t want others to notice that they’re wearing braces. However, it’s not the most efficient corrective treatment for severe dental issues. Schedule a consultation to learn more about getting Invisalign in Gainesville and find out if they’re the right fit for you.