If you want straighter teeth but don’t like metal braces, Invisalign can help you. It can align your teeth with clear, removable aligners. Whether you’re dealing with crowding, gaps, or bite issues, Invisalign is a good choice for you. Here, we will tell you all you need to know about this dental treatment, so read on to learn more.
What Is Invisalign?
It is a modern orthodontic treatment that straightens your teeth by using clear, removable aligners. It can address different dental issues, including crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. If you have mild to moderate alignment problems or don’t like traditional braces, it can be a good choice for you.
How Does Invisalign Work?
You need to go through different steps for Invisalign. Let’s see all the required steps together:
- First, you need to talk to a skilled dental professional. The dentist evaluates your teeth and discusses your goals.
- Our dentist takes digital impressions of your teeth by using 3D imaging and makes you a treatment plan.
- When the treatment plan is approved, they make a series of clear, custom-made aligners specifically for you.
- Then, you receive your first set of aligners to ensure a proper fit and get instructions on wearing and caring for the aligners.
- You should wear each set of aligners for one to two weeks before getting the next set (Remove them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss).
- Throughout the treatment, you need to visit your dentist every 6 to 8 weeks for progress check-ups.
- When you get all the aligners in your series, your teeth should be in their final, corrected positions.
- Finally, they give you a retainer to wear at night to maintain your new smile.
Invisalign Before and After
Before treatment, you might have:
- Crowded Teeth
- Gaps Between Teeth
- Difficulty Biting and Chewing
- Jaw pain or discomfort
- Uneven wear on teeth
- Lack of confidence
After treatment, you will have:
- Straighter teeth
- Closed gaps
- Easier oral hygiene
- Improved bite function
- Higher self-Esteem
- Reduced risk of tooth wear
- Relief from jaw pain
How Much Does Invisalign Cost?
The Invisalign cost depends on different factors, like the complexity of the procedure, your dentist, and your treatment plan. Minor adjustments, like slight crowding or small gaps, may require fewer aligners and cost you less. On the other hand, more complex issues, like severe overbites or underbites, often require additional aligners and cost you more.
Does Insurance Cover Invisalign?
Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for it. Depending on your plan, it may cover up to 50% of the treatment cost and make it an affordable option for you. Coverage levels can vary, so contact us at (425) 827-2003 to verify your benefits and explore payment options that fit your budget.
How Much Is Invisalign Without Insurance?
Dental insurance may not provide coverage if it’s not for medical causes. If you use the aligners to address aesthetic concerns, like closing minor gaps or slightly improving alignment, insurance won’t offer coverage. Some policies also exclude orthodontic treatments for adults, and just offer benefits for those under the age of 18.
How to Clean Invisalign?
To keep them clean, you should:
- Rinse them with lukewarm water each time you remove them.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush the aligners daily. Make sure you clean both the inside and outside surfaces.
- Avoid using hot water to keep them in good shape.
- Use an aligner cleaning solution or denture cleaner for a deeper clean.
- Store your aligners in their protective case when not in use.
- Do not use toothpaste to clean your aligners.
- Remove your aligners before consuming staining beverages like coffee.
- Avoid using aligners beyond their intended wear period, and switch them on time.
- Schedule regular checkups to ensure your aligners remain in top condition.
What Are Invisalign Attachments?
These attachments are made of composite resin that is temporarily bonded to the surface of your teeth during the treatment. They are small, tooth-colored shapes and act as anchors that provide additional grip for the aligners. They also blend in with your natural teeth and are discrete and unnoticeable when you wear them. The most common types of attachments are:
- Ellipsoid
- Rectangular
- Beveled
- Optimized
- Button
Invisalign vs. Braces
Both treatments are effective, but they are different in some aspects. Your choice depends on your orthodontic needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Here, we tell you all the differences so that you can make the best choice:
Invisalign
- Is a clear and nearly invisible aligner.
- Minimizes irritation to gums and cheeks.
- Is removable, and you can brush and floss it easily.
- Needs no food restrictions.
- Works best for mild to moderate orthodontic issues.
- Lasts 12 to 18 months.
Traditional Braces
- Are often less expensive than Invisalign.
- Are highly visible.
- Are permanently fixed to teeth.
- Need additional tools for brushing and flossing.
- Need certain food restrictions.
- Are effective for a wider range of orthodontic issues.
- Take longer, averaging 18 to 24 months or more.
- May cause discomfort.
Invisalign Near Me in WA
If you’re in Washington and considering Invisalign, we can help you. Our experienced team provides personalized treatment plans to help you achieve a confident smile. All you need to do is to make an online appointment for free consultation.
FAQs
Traditional braces are often less expensive, but costs vary based on individual cases.
No, you should remove your aligners before eating to prevent damage and staining.
It’s best to remove aligners before drinking coffee to avoid staining and warping from heat.
It requires discipline to wear aligners 20-22 hours daily and may not be suitable for severe orthodontic issues.
It is preferable for those seeking a discreet, removable option, while braces may be better for complex cases.
It can correct mild to moderate underbites; severe cases may require alternative treatments.