If you are thinking about investing in Invisalign as the best way to straighten out your smile, congratulations! You’re on the right path toward straightening your teeth in a way that will have people congratulating you and, ultimately, smiling right back. Of course, like all important choices in a person’s life, the decision to meet with an orthodontist and actually purchase this product is one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. That’s why it’s essential to know the right questions to ask orthodontist about Invisalign before you begin your treatment journey.
Not only will these questions guide you toward a clear understanding of what to expect, but they’ll also help you compare Invisalign with other treatment options like traditional braces. It’s important to consider factors such as comfort, appearance, time commitment, and long-term maintenance. Invisalign can offer more freedom and flexibility for many patients especially teens and busy adults but it also requires responsibility and consistent wear.
Those considering treatment for Invisalign should give the entire idea careful consideration, and that can start with an Invisalign consultation here at Clearsmile Orthodontics, which often includes the patient asking the following questions:
#1 How will my treatment start?
Obviously this depends on the patient, but we will start either by taking a scan of your teeth or making a physical impression to get great personalized Invisalign trays that will begin the process of straightening your teeth. It really is as simple as that.
#2 Will I be using Invisalign clear aligners or a knock-off brand?
Here at Clearsmile Orthodontics, we use genuine Invisalign products. While the generic brands can be more cost-effective, we believe in the integrity of the real thing.
#3 How long will the treatment last?
Again, this depends entirely on the patient, but many of our patients finish their orthodontic treatment in 8–10 months. Depending on the severity of misalignment, this could take less or more time, but in a general sense it is a much quicker process than traditional braces.
#4 How much will this cost?
Costs will vary, too, but we recommend starting with a call to your insurance company to see if any of the expense for treatments like Invisalign & clear braces in Huntersville can be covered by the orthodontic benefits included in your dental plan. Beyond that, we can work out easy monthly payments to make the cost as manageable as possible.
#5 How often will I need to visit the orthodontist’s office?
Traditional braces require monthly visits, but Invisalign only needs check-ins every two to three months. While you’ll have fewer visits than with traditional braces, it’s important to be aware of the potential long-term side effects of Invisalign.
#6 What happens if an aligner breaks or gets lost?
Since Invisalign needs to be worn at pretty much all times when not eating, it is essential that you get a replacement tray as quickly as possible should one break or get lost. If an Invisalign tray is lost, it is important to contact your orthodontist immediately—what happens if I lose my aligner is that treatment can be delayed and a replacement tray may be required, which involves additional cost. Proper care and keeping aligners in place help prevent this issue.
#7 Do Invisalign work as well as traditional braces?
They do! Whether you go with traditional braces or Invisalign, the end result will be the same. Several other factors come into play when making a decision, however, and we hope to help our patients make the most informed decision possible.
Understanding these questions to ask orthodontist about Invisalign ensures you’re prepared and confident moving forward. If you have any other questions about how Invisalign might work for you, call a professional here at Clearsmile Orthodontics to set up your consultation. We’ll have you on the right path toward a gorgeous, clear smile in no time. We think you’ll be glad you did it!