Invisalign® Can Bring You a Beautifully Straight Smile

Both adults and children often need to have their teeth straightened. However, not everyone wants to have metallic braces on their teeth for several years. Some may be embarrassed to wear braces while others may dislike the feel of metal in their mouth. Not to mention the hassle of the cleaning process and the restrictive diet that comes with it.

In recent years, cosmetic dentistry has embraced Invisalign® as an alternative to creating beautifully straight smiles. Unlike the traditional metallic braces, Invisalign® is a treatment that uses clear tray aligners that are not transfixed to your teeth. These tray aligners are customized to the molds of your mouth, making it a personalized type of cosmetic dentistry.
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What is Invisalign®?

Invisalign® is an excellent substitute for those who do not wish to wear metallic braces. This option consists of a clear aligner that molds to your teeth. It is customized based on the position of your teeth. Since it is a clear type of braces, this may be a more attractive option when compared to metallic braces and plastic brackets.

No one may even notice your Invisalign® braces due to their clear appearance. These types of braces will still work on aligning your teeth into a more straight position. Before you know it, you will have straight teeth and a beautiful smile.

When you’re undergoing dental care to straighten your teeth, Dr. Boren will create a treatment plan customized for you. The aligner trays will need to be replaced every few weeks and will be somewhat different every time they are replaced since they need to change the positioning of your teeth. 

The Benefits of Invisalign®

One review paper published in the Turkish Journal of Orthodontics discussed a retrospective cohort study from 2005 that compared Invisalign® braces to conventional fixed braces. The research shows that both types of braces are effective in space closures, root paralleling, and marginal ridge alignment.

Researchers claim that clear braces are successful in aligning and leveling arches among both moderate and minor cases. However, the more severe cases would benefit more greatly from metallic braces. Other advantages of Invisalign® braces include:

• Correcting overbite, crossbite, and underbite problems
• Fixing gap teeth
• Correcting crowded teeth
• Better look as compared to metallic wires and brackets
• Removable when eating, drinking, brushing, flossing, or cleaning the aligners
• Ensures brushing teeth is simpler and easier
• Fewer issues (such as broken wires or loose brackets)
  

Another study published in the Australian Dental Journal in 2017 proposes that Invisalign® braces can boost periodontal health by decreasing the bacteria amounts located in your mouth around your teeth. 

What to Expect with Invisalign®

Invisalign® braces act nearly like a mouthguard. You will need to wear a set of different aligners every few weeks over a period of time until your teeth are fully straightened. During this time, these aligners will move your teeth into the proper position. 

Before getting Invisalign®, you'll need to meet with your dentist to see if you’re a suitable candidate and whether aligners can effectively treat your dental problems. You’ll likely need to have X-rays and impressions done to check which type of dental cosmetic procedure you need. 

Once your dentist has determined your treatment, they will take impressions and 3D images of your teeth and develop your aligners at a lab.

Each take-home aligner will be worn for 1-2 weeks, which will enable your teeth to shift gradually. You'll need to wear these aligners for at least 20 hours per day to get the results you need. It will normally take up to 30 aligners to have your teeth completely straightened. Sometimes, these Invisalign® treatments can take about a year to complete. 
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The Costs of Clear Braces

In general, the cost of Invisalign® treatment varies greatly. It can cost as little as $3,000 or as much as $7,000. However, in the majority of cases, it will cost $5,000 or less. When compared to metallic braces, the costs tend to overlap. Metallic braces cost anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000.

Some children are eligible for no-cost or low-cost health coverage under Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). These programs can cover both medical care and dental care. 
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Who is Eligible for Invisalign®

It’s simple and free to see if Invisalign® will work for you. During your consultation, Dr. Boren and her team will assess your oral health and analyze whether Invisalign® is the best treatment solution for your specific situation. Her experience in using Invisalign® as a cosmetic and oral health solution provides patients the confidence they deserve in seeking orthodontic treatment.

For more information about Invisalign® and orthodontic procedures, check out our website and contact us to schedule a complimentary consultation. Dr. Boren at Lynnwood Dental is sure to provide you with a beautiful and straight smile!