The world of Invisalign is foreign to many. Just how does Invisalign work and why are so many patients opting for this type of treatment to correct their smiles? Invisalign is a revolutionary way to fix the issues with your teeth, and because of this, it’s become quite popular in the field of orthodontics. As with any product, people have questions and concerns about it, and we’re here to shed light on several of these issues. Here are some of the most frequently asked Invisalign questions with answers from the pros.
Q. What Is Invisalign?
A. Invisalign is a form of orthodontic treatment consisting of clear, removable aligners. Made of a flexible plastic material, Invisalign aligners can be more comfortable than braces and work just as well, as long as patients listen to their orthodontist’s instructions for proper wear.
Q. Who Can Get Invisalign?
A. The Invisalign system is perfect for adults and teens alike with issues ranging from mild to moderately severe. Because the aligners are removable, patients have to commit to wearing and caring for them for their treatment to be successful.
Q. How Does It Work?
A. At a consultation with an orthodontist who is trained in the Invisalign program, the patient will have a digital scan done on their teeth. The orthodontist will then design a custom plan for the patient. Once the aligners are ready, the patient will begin treatment, wearing the aligners for 20-22 hours every day. The aligner trays are switched out to new trays about every two weeks, helping to gradually and gently shift teeth to the correct positions within the mouth.
Q. How Much Does Invisalign Cost?
A. Patients can expect the cost of Invisalign to be similar to that of braces or slightly higher; however, there are many payment options available for Invisalign. These include:
- Payment plans through an orthodontist’s office
- Insurance
- HSAs and FSAs
- Various discounts
This helps to bring orthodontic treatment within reach for many patients and eases the financial burden for them during this time.
Q. How Will Invisalign Impact My Lifestyle?
A. Invisalign fits seamlessly into virtually every lifestyle. Since the aligners are clear, patients report they have less self-confidence issues than those who have braces. There are also no food restrictions like with braces, so Invisalign patients will have no disruption in their normal eating habits. Patients are also able to remove their aligners whenever they need to, but it’s important to keep in mind that for best results, the aligners need to be worn for the recommended time each day.
Q. How Long Is the Treatment Process?
A. Depending on a patient’s orthodontic issue, Invisalign treatment can range from 12-24 months with Invisalign Full to less than six months for milder issues treated with Invisalign Lite.
We hope we have answered some of your questions about Invisalign. Invisalign is a proven way to get a beautiful smile that won’t interfere with your everyday life. Take the leap and schedule a consultation today with a qualified provider.