While there are probably a million questions to ask your orthodontist before getting Invisalign, we’re going to cover some of the most frequently asked ones. We may also have a few that you might not have thought about. Invisalign® is a big step. It is both a financial and a time commitment, so the more information you have before treatment, the better.
How does Invisalign® work?
Invisalign is a system of sequential almost invisible tray aligners that are worn over the teeth. The trays work by creating a constant, but gentle pressure on misaligned teeth to shift them into proper alignment.
How long with treatment take?
Treatment length varies greatly depending on the degree of malocclusion being corrected. For some patients with minor alignment issues, treatment may be as short as six months. To correct more complex issues treatment may be as long as 36 months or longer. The national average for treatment duration is 12 to 18 months.
How much will it cost?
The cost of Invisalign will also vary depending on the problems being corrected. The national average ranges from $3,000 to $8,000. Your treatment will likely fall within that range but might be less if you have dental insurance that covers part of the cost.
Will I have to eat or avoid certain foods?
No. Patients remove Invisalign® tray aligners for eating and drinking, so there are no foods to avoid. Individual patients may opt for softer foods during the first couple of days with a new tray set because there may be slight discomfort as your teeth adjust to the new positioning.
How often will I need to see the orthodontist during treatment?
Normally, Invisalign® checkup appointments occur every 8 to 12 weeks. This will depend on your custom treatment plan.
View this post on Instagram
What if I lose or damage one of the trays?
Normally, you can have a lost or damaged tray replaced, although there may be an additional charge. In some instances, the doctor may recommend shifting up to the next set of trays in the sequence.
Is Invisalign® as effective as regular braces?
Yes, in most instances, Invisalign® is as effective as regular braces, although there are a few times where braces would serve better. If your orthodontist has prescribed Invisalign® treatment, it means that they are confident that Invisalign® will do a great job perfecting your smile.
How do I begin?
Make an appointment. Yes, it really is that easy. During your appointment, the doctor will examine your teeth using x-rays and digital images. Then they will create a custom treatment plan for you. If you are a candidate for Invisalign® treatment, custom trays will be created.
Making That First Appointment
To make your first appointment you can use our Appointment Widget and just follow the prompts. If you would like to begin virtually, our Virtual Smile Assessment is also available. If you have additional questions, you can use the handy chat feature on our website or call one of our offices:
South End: (980) 299-3451
Ballantyne/Blakeney: (980) 999-6388
We hope this post has answered most of the questions you wanted to ask your orthodontist before getting Invisalign. For more information, please check out our Facebook and Instagram pages.