Invisalign is a system of clear plastic trays that straighten teeth without the discomfort of metal braces. It can correct crooked teeth, overcrowding, and other malocclusions. It can also fix bite problems. However, there are some issues with Invisalign dentist that patients should know about. These include cost, comfort, and appearance.
Cost
The cost of Invisalign depends on your specific needs and the complexity of your dental problems. The length of treatment also affects cost, as well as the location of the practice. Fortunately, some dental insurance providers cover some or all of the cost of Invisalign treatment.
If your insurer offers coverage, be sure to consult with your orthodontist to understand the specifics of your coverage. Some insurance plans have a lifetime orthodontic maximum, which limits the amount of coverage available.
If you do not have insurance, you can still make Invisalign more affordable with financing options. Many orthodontic practices offer in-house payment plans or third-party financing arrangements like CareCredit, which provide budget-friendly monthly payments and low interest rates. In addition, some insurance companies offer flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts that can be used to pay for healthcare-related costs, including clear aligners. Some even cover the cost of traditional braces! This option is particularly beneficial for parents whose children may need braces, but would prefer the Invisalign alternative.
Comfort
Invisalign’s smooth plastic material is less likely to irritate the gums than traditional metal braces, but some people may experience pain as their teeth adjust. This is typically mild and temporary, however.
In addition to reducing discomfort, Invisalign also helps to treat minor dental problems such as crowded teeth and gaps between the teeth (diastema). These issues can be addressed with Invisalign treatment without the need for more invasive procedures such as orthodontic surgery.
Invisalign is also more convenient than traditional orthodontic solutions, which can be difficult to manage on a daily basis. For example, traditional braces often come with a list of foods that must be avoided. With Invisalign, this restriction is unnecessary, and patients can enjoy their favorite foods. Additionally, the fact that Invisalign trays can be removed makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing.
Appearance
Crooked teeth not only make it difficult to smile, but they can also affect speech and put the health of your teeth and gums at risk. Dentists can treat these problems using different orthodontic devices, including clear aligners. These removable appliances can correct bite and alignment issues in adults and teens.
Most clear aligners are transparent and blend in with the teeth, making them less noticeable than traditional braces. However, they can stain if you wear them too long or do not take care of them properly. To keep them looking fresh, patients should avoid consuming foods and drinks that could discolor the trays.
Invisalign also offers a variety of accessories to help improve their effectiveness. These can include attachments, power ridges, or buttons. Depending on your needs, you might prefer one type of accessory over another. For example, some products feature a scalloped edge that hides the trays better than straight edges. These small details can help you feel more confident about your appearance during treatment.
Maintenance
During the initial consultation, the orthodontist will take 3D images and impressions of the teeth to create a digital model. This helps the dentist predict how much movement the teeth will need and what results to expect. The model is then used to fabricate a series of clear plastic aligners that will fit over your teeth and slowly move them into place.
The aligners are made of a BPA-free thermoplastic material that is smooth and comfortable to the mouth. They can be easily inserted and removed and are easy to clean. However, it is important to remove them before eating and drinking (except for cool water) and to brush the teeth before reinserting them. Otherwise, debris can stick to the trays and cause tooth decay.
Patients will need to visit the dentist on a regular basis to ensure that teeth are moving as they should. Fortunately, these appointments are less frequent than if you were wearing traditional braces.