Having crooked teeth can make life harder. They might make you feel shy about smiling and are also tough to clean. Crooked teeth allow plaque to build up more easily along the gum line and between them. Tooth decay and infections are common issues for patients with crooked teeth.
Luckily, instant orthodontics can fix these problems, and our team at Derby Dental is ready to help! Dr. Meghan Kilkelly and Dr. Erika Whitehouse use orthodontic treatments to give you a straighter, more confident smile.
How Invisalign® Clear Aligners Work
Instead of metal braces, Invisalign® uses clear plastic aligners to straighten your teeth. These aligners are a gentle and easy way to get the straighter teeth you’ve always wanted.
It all starts with a consultation, where our dentists check your teeth and make a treatment plan just for you. With 3D imaging, we design a series of custom aligners that slowly move your teeth into place.
You’ll wear each set of aligners for about one to two weeks, depending on your plan. As you switch to new aligners, you’ll notice your teeth moving closer to your perfect smile. One of the best parts of Invisalign is that their system is easy to use. The aligners are removable, so you can enjoy your favorite foods and keep your teeth clean without trouble.
During your treatment, you’ll check in with our team regularly to make sure everything is going well. Our support means you won’t go through the process alone. We’ll guide you every step of the way to help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile.
Since there are no wires or brackets to adjust, you won’t need as many checkups. You’ll visit the dentist about every six weeks to pick up new aligners and make sure your treatment is on track.
What can Invisalign® Fix?
Our dentists can use Invisalign to treat many common orthodontic problems, including:
- Crowded Teeth: Crowded teeth can lead to problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Invisalign can help by applying gentle pressure to move crowded teeth into better alignment.
- Gaps Between Teeth: Gaps can make you feel self-conscious and increase your risk of cavities or gum infections. Food can easily get stuck between teeth, leading to decay and bad breath. Invisalign closes these gaps to prevent these issues and more.
- Bite Alignment: Misaligned bites, like overbites, underbites, or crossbites, can put extra pressure on your jaw. This pressure can cause a TMJ disorder or bad teeth grinding habits. Invisalign can correct your bite and prevent these problems from getting worse.
The Benefits of Invisalign®
One of the main benefits of Invisalign is how comfortable it is. Unlike metal braces, Invisalign aligners consist of smooth plastic. They will be gentle on your gums and cheeks, and easy to clean. You won’t have to worry about irritation while they sit in your mouth for long periods.
Another big advantage is how discreet they are. The clear aligners are nearly invisible, so you can look normal while getting treatment. This is a great option for adults or teens who may feel self-conscious about wearing braces.
Invisalign also offers more flexibility. Since the aligners are removable, you can take them out when you eat or drink, letting you enjoy your favorite foods without any issues. It’s also much easier to brush and floss since you don’t have to clean around wires and brackets.
Many people also love that Invisalign requires fewer office visits than traditional braces. You’ll get several sets of aligners at once, so you won’t need as many checkups for adjustments.
The key benefits of Invisalign include:
- The aligners are clear and almost invisible.
- Invisalign usually takes less time than braces to work.
- The smooth plastic trays are gentle and won’t irritate your mouth like metal braces.
- You can remove the trays, so you don’t have to change your diet or brushing routine.
- Checkups are quicker since there are no braces to adjust.
Caring for Invisalign Aligners
Proper maintenance of your aligners is crucial for achieving the best results. Good care ensures your aligners stay clean, clear, and free from damage throughout your treatment.
Clean Your Aligners Daily
Cleaning your Invisalign aligners daily is one of the most important steps in your care routine. Bacteria, plaque, and food particles can accumulate on the aligners, causing bad odors and discoloration. To clean them, rinse your aligners with lukewarm water and gently brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use a clear, mild soap instead of toothpaste, as some toothpaste formulas can scratch the aligners.
Avoid Hot Water
Never expose your aligners to hot water; heat can warp the plastic and affect the fit. Always use lukewarm or cold water when rinsing or cleaning your aligners. Warped aligners may not work effectively, potentially delaying your treatment.
Store Them Properly
When you’re not wearing your aligners, store them in their protective case. Leaving aligners out in the open increases the risk of losing, damaging, or exposing them to germs. A sturdy case keeps your aligners safe and clean when not in use.
Remove Aligners Before Eating or Drinking
Always remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. Food and drinks can stain or damage the aligners, making them less discreet. Chewing while wearing aligners can also crack or distort the material. After eating, brush your teeth before reinserting your aligners to prevent trapping food particles and bacteria against your teeth.
Brush and Floss Regularly
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential when using Invisalign. Brush and floss your teeth after every meal or snack to prevent plaque buildup. This practice ensures that your aligners stay clean and reduces the risk of cavities or gum disease during your treatment.
Soak Your Aligners
Soaking your aligners regularly keeps them fresh and eliminates lingering bacteria. Use Invisalign cleaning crystals or a denture-cleaning solution to soak your aligners as directed. This process removes stains and ensures your aligners remain clear and odor-free. After soaking, rinse them thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.
Handle with Care
Invisalign aligners are durable but not indestructible. When removing them, use both hands to avoid bending or cracking the material. Handle them gently, especially when cleaning or inserting them into your mouth. Avoid biting down on your aligners to seat them, as this can damage the edges.
Avoid Harmful Substances
Keep your aligners away from harmful substances like alcohol-based mouthwash or harsh cleaners. These can weaken or discolor the plastic. Stick to products specifically designed for Invisalign or approved by your dentist.
Invisalign FAQs
Invisalign is often patients’ preferred way to straighten crooked teeth. Below are some frequently asked patient questions.
How much does Invisalign cost in Austin, TX?
The cost of Invisalign depends on your specific case, how many aligners you need, and the complexity of your treatment. On average, Invisalign costs between $3,000 and $7,000. We offer payment plans and work with financing options like CareCredit to make treatment more affordable.
Does dental insurance cover Invisalign?
Some dental insurance plans partially cover Invisalign, just like they do for traditional braces. Coverage varies by plan, so it’s important to check with your provider. Your dental office can help you understand your benefits and maximize your insurance coverage.
Contact us today at 512-862-1463 to see if Invisalign is right for you. We also offer other cosmetic dental services for all our patients. We serve patients from Westover Hills, Northwest Hills, Allandale, Bull Creek, Highland Park and surrounding communities.