What Is Invisalign: How Does It Work?

Invisalign treatment has revolutionized the field of orthodontics. From the creation in 1997 to today, Invisalign has treated over 2.4 million patients. The overall customer satisfaction rate for Invisalign is approximately 96%!

So, what is Invisalign and how does Invisalign work? It’s an ideal treatment for children and adults looking to improve their smiles. In this article, we discuss all you need to know about Invisalign.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a popular company of clear aligner orthodontic treatment. The clear aligners are used to help correct abnormal bites and misaligned teeth. They function similarly to traditional metal braces, but are designed from a flexible thermoplastic material called SmartTrack, which is nearly invisible. The clear aligner trays are made to fit over your exact teeth and gradually position your teeth into proper positions overtime.

Invisalign vs. Braces: Basic Differences

Invisalign and braces are popular types of orthodontic treatment. Although Invisalign and braces share similar functions, they have several basic differences that set them apart from each other. In this section we contrast Invisalign vs. Braces.

One of the major differences between the two treatment options is their appearance. Invisalign is often considered more cosmetic in appearance, as the trays are essentially clear in comparison to noticeable metal brackets and wires. Invisalign can also be removed from the mouth when necessary, such as to eat and perform oral hygiene, unlike with braces. Lastly, the cost and length of treatment time can vary for both treatment options depending on various factors.

How Does Invisalign Work?

How does Invisalign work? The process of Invisalign is intriguing. Continue reading to learn more.

In order to create your custom clear aligners, your dental professional will take dental X-rays, facial and intra-oral photographs of your smile, and a 3D digital scan or dental impression of your teeth and bite. Invisalign uses this diagnostic data and 3D printing technology to create a series of clear aligners, each with a specific direction and quantity of movement. Tooth-colored SmartForce attachments may also be applied to your teeth during your treatment to aid in tooth movement. You will be instructed on how long to wear the aligners and when to switch to the next set of trays.

Assessing the Effectiveness of Aligners

It is important to assess the effectiveness of aligners when deciding if aligners are right for you. Learn more below.

Future research is necessary to provide sufficient evidence on the effectiveness of aligners. Although there is limited research on this matter, Invisalign is regarded as the most advanced clear aligner system across the globe. Also, recent research reveals tat Invisalign can effectively correct mild to moderate tooth alignment issues similarly to traditional braces.

Common Dental Issues that Invisalign Can Fix

Invisalign is known to fix a wide range of dental issues. This section discusses the common dental issues resolved by Invisalign.

• Overbite

When the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth, this is referred to as an overbite. Invisalign can help fix an overbite, which will help improve efficiency in chewing and speaking.

• Underbite

An underbite occurs when the bottom teeth are positioned in front of the upper teeth, which can lead to tooth wear, and difficulty eating and speaking. Invisalign can effectively be used to correct mild to moderate underbites.

• Crossbite

A crossbite is characterized by the upper teeth being positioned inside the lower teeth when biting together. In many cases Invisalign can help treat a dental crossbite.

• Gap Teeth

Spacing issues are very common. Invisalign can help close gaps between teeth for a healthier smile.

• Open Bite

An open bite occurs when the upper teeth are unable to contact the lower teeth. Invisalign can treat open bites and restore the bite to normal.

• Crowded Teeth

Many individuals are impacted by crowded teeth. Invisalign can help create adequate space to accommodate your teeth and realign them.

• General Misalignment

One of the most common functions of Invisalign is fixing tooth misalignment. Invisalign can help straighten misaligned, rotated, or crooked teeth.

Process of Invisalign Treatment

The Invisalign process is relatively simple. Here are the steps to getting started with Invisalign.

Initial Consultation

In some cases, Invisalign may not be the appropriate treatment choice. You will have an initial consultation with your dental professional, where they will determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign. During this appointment, you may have diagnostic photos, dental X-rays, and digital scans or impressions taken of your smile for assessment. Using these records, your dental professional will come up with a treatment plan that is best for your smile.

Taking Impressions

Once you are approved for Invisalign, a mold of your teeth is made. This can be done using dental impressions or a 3D digital scan. This is necessary for the creation of your Invisalign trays.

Custom Aligner Fabrication

Invisalign will create a series of trays that are uniquely designed to fit your teeth and move them into their ideal positions. If necessary, they will also incorporate the use of tooth-colored attachments into the aligner system, which aid in moving the teeth. If attachments are built-in to your treatment, your dental professional will place them onto your teeth at your appointment when your trays are delivered.

Aligner Usage

You will be given instructions on how to wear and care for your Invisalign trays. They will explain how long to wear them, which is typically 22 hours a day, and the frequency at which to switch to the next set of trays. Invisalign trays are usually switched out every week to two weeks. Your dental professional will answer any questions you may have regarding your treatment.

Periodic Check-ups

Throughout your Invisalign process, you will be scheduled for adjustment check-ups to monitor your progress and make any necessary changes. Scheduled appointments for Invisalign on average are every 8 to 12 weeks. The check-up appointments typically only last less than 20 minutes.

Treatment Completion

At last, your Invisalign treatment journey will be finished, and you can enjoy your new and improved smile. New final records, such as dental X-rays and photographs will be taken after treatment is completed. You will be given retainers to maintain the new positions of your teeth.

Follow-up Visits

Follow-up visits will be scheduled to assess your smile at specific time intervals after treatment completion. Your dental professional will ensure that your retainers are fitting properly and that your teeth are maintaining their new positions.

Who Can Provide Invisalign Treatment?

It is important to know who can provide Invisalign treatment. Learn more by reading below.

Invisalign treatment is commonly provided by an orthodontist. Orthodontists are dental specialists who receive additional training after dental school to provide orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign. General dentists may also receive Invisalign training and provide treatment.

How Long Does It Take for Invisalign to Straighten Teeth?

How long does Invisalign take? We discuss the average treatment times for Invisalign below.

Invisalign has been well documented to provide quick and beautiful results. On average, individuals complete Invisalign treatment within 12-18 months. Length of treatment time can be influenced by factors such as the complexity of your bite and your compliance in wearing the trays.

Does Invisalign Hurt?

You are probably wondering does Invisalign hurt. We have the answer for you. Continue reading to find out.

Orthodontic treatment involves the movement of teeth, which can cause people slight discomfort. Invisalign trays apply gentle pressure to your teeth to move them into their ideal places. On the bright side, this mild pain typically goes away quickly. Some people may not even experience any discomfort at all.

How Much Does Invisalign Cost?

How much does Invisalign cost? Continue reading to discover the average Invisalign cost.

The cost of Invisalign is often influenced by the complexity of your bite and how many aligner trays will be necessary. The cost can also be impacted by the expertise of your dental professional, location of the dental practice, and insurance coverage. Below we discuss the average price for Invisalign treatment with and without dental insurance.

How Much is Invisalign With Insurance?

How much is Invisalign with insurance? In this section we discuss the average cost of Invisalign with insurance.

Dental insurance can reduce the cost of Invisalign treatment considerably. However, not all dental insurances offer coverage for Invisalign or orthodontic treatment. The average cost of Invisalign with insurance coverage ranges between $1,500 - $5,000.

How Much is Invisalign Without Insurance?

How much is Invisalign without insurance? Now we will discuss the average cost of Invisalign without insurance.

The cost of Invisalign can still be affordable without dental insurance. Many dental offices offer payment plans, discounts, or other financing options to make payments easier. The average cost of Invisalign treatment without insurance ranges between $3,000 to $8,000.

Experience Advanced Invisalign Care at Great Lakes Family Dental!

Have your Invisalign treatment performed by the caring experts at Great Lakes Family Dental. Our trusted dental specialists are leading Invisalign providers.

Now that you know all of the facts about Invisalign, it’s time to choose top Invisalign providers. Great Lakes Family Dental is the best place to go for Invisalign treatment and orthodontic services. Our trusted dental professionals offer a full range of orthodontics, including Invisalign, regular braces, clear braces, lingual braces, and more. Schedule an appointment with us today to find out about our exceptional and affordable dental care for you and your entire family.

Conclusion

Invisalign is one of the leading treatment options for straightening teeth and perfecting smiles. The results of Invisalign before and after are life changing! Invisalign allows you to improve your smile discreetly, by wearing virtually invisible custom trays that move your teeth into their ideal positions. Our caring and Invisalign trained team of dental professionals at Great Lakes Family Dental are here to help you accomplish your smile goals today.