What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign® is an orthodontic treatment. When I say orthodontic treatment, it means moving teeth the right way to achieve function and aesthetics. Invisalign® is a clear way of moving teeth without brackets.
How does Invisalign® compare to regular braces?
Comparing regular braces, brackets, and Invisalign®, when you have orthodontic treatment, it could be brackets or clear aligners. The difference is with brackets you have those little pieces attached to your teeth. They could be metal or ceramic. With Invisalign®, we can do the same movement of teeth without any of those attachments. It's a clear way to move your teeth until you have a beautiful, healthy smile.
Is Invisalign® faster than clear braces?
I would say no, or it could depend on the compliance from the patient. When you have orthodontic treatment, you don't have the opportunity to remove the treatment from your mouth. With Invisalign® being clear aligners, you have the option to have it in your mouth or not. Depending on your responsibility and compliance, it will work the same as traditional braces.
Which is more comfortable: Invisalign® or regular treatment?
I would say using the aligners is more comfortable because nobody will notice that you're having your teeth moved. You can remove clear aligners, brush, and put them back in your mouth. You smile, and patients or anybody else don't notice that you're having orthodontic treatment.
What do I have to do to start Invisalign® treatment?
The first thing is to understand that you need the treatment. We're committed to starting the treatment. We do the initial records, which include a clinical examination to evaluate what stage we are in to do the treatment, what movement we are going to be doing, and have an idea of how long the treatment is going to last. We also need X-rays and a scan that is a digital impression of your teeth. Photographs help me have a clear understanding of what the treatment will be and start right away.
Do I need to wear my aligners all the time?
That's a great question. People ask, "Do I need to have my aligners in the mouth all the time?" I would say yes. Even to sleep, you need your aligners. The only time you're going to remove your aligners is when you brush your teeth or if you're going to eat or drink anything that is not water. The longer you have your aligners in the mouth, the faster the procedure will work.
Is Invisalign® painful?
Something that I compare Invisalign® to is like when you put your shoes on or when you have a belt—it is the same thing. You're going to feel some pressure that, as you use your aligners, is going to clear, and you're going to feel very comfortable.
Is Invisalign® right for me?
That's another question that patients ask. Is Invisalign® right for me or could I be disqualified to change for another treatment? My answer is anyone is a good candidate for Invisalign®. It is based on compliance from the patient. That's my main concern.
Does insurance cover Invisalign®?
I would say yes because Invisalign® is an orthodontic procedure. It could be brackets or clear aligners; insurance will cover your orthodontic treatment if you have a policy that covers ortho.
If you live in or near Glen Rock, NJ , and are looking for dental care, contact us at (551) 383-4441 to set an appointment. You can also email us at [email protected]. Our staff would love to talk with you!
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