A Modern Solution for a Perfectly Aligned Smile
If you’re looking for a discreet, comfortable way to straighten your teeth, Invisalign may be the solution for you. These nearly invisible clear aligners have become an increasingly popular option for teens and adults who want a straighter smile without the hassle of metal braces. After Invisalign works to move your teeth into their new positions, it is crucial to wear retainers to maintain these results and ensure long-lasting success.
Our Waterford, MI dentist, Dr. Amanda Sheehan at Oakland Family Dental proudly offers Invisalign to patients in Waterford, Clarkston, West Bloomfield, Pontiac, Auburn Hills and the surrounding areas, helping them achieve a healthier, more confident smile. Contact Oakland Family Dental today by calling (248) 674-0384.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to gradually shift teeth into their correct positions. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners are almost invisible and can be taken out when you eat, brush, and floss. This effective treatment has helped millions of people straighten their smiles discreetly, comfortably, and without the restrictions that come with metal braces.
What Do Invisalign Clear Aligners Fix?
Invisalign is designed to correct a wide range of dental issues, including:
- Crowded Teeth: When there’s not enough space in the jaw, causing teeth to overlap.
- Gaps Between Teeth: Extra space between teeth can lead to misalignment over time.
- Overbite: When upper front teeth overlap the lower teeth too much.
- Underbite: When lower front teeth are positioned too far forward.
- Crossbite: When some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth.
- Open Bite: When there’s a gap between the upper and lower front teeth when the mouth is closed.
Whether you have minor or more complex alignment issues, Invisalign may be able to help correct them.
Who Qualifies for Invisalign?
Invisalign is a great option for many teens and adults looking for a convenient way to straighten their teeth. Generally, candidates for Invisalign should:
- Have mild to moderate alignment issues (severe cases may require traditional braces)
- Be disciplined about wearing the aligners for 20-22 hours a day
- Want a discreet orthodontic solution
Dr. Sheehan can assess your smile to determine if Invisalign is the right option for you.
Benefits of Invisalign
There are several key advantages to choosing Invisalign, including:
- Nearly Invisible: Clear aligners are almost undetectable, making Invisalign a discreet choice.
- Removable: Enjoy the freedom to take them out for eating, brushing, and flossing.
- Comfortable: Made from smooth, BPA-free plastic, Invisalign aligners are less likely to irritate gums.
- Fewer Dental Visits: Invisalign requires fewer check-ups than braces, as you switch aligners on your own at home every 1-2 weeks.
- Customizable: Invisalign is tailored to each person’s specific dental needs, ensuring a personalized fit and treatment plan.
How Invisalign Treatment Works
Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect during Invisalign treatment:
- Consultation: Dr. Sheehan will assess your teeth, take digital scans, and create a custom treatment plan.
- Aligner Creation: Based on your unique plan, a series of aligners are crafted to gradually shift your teeth.
- Wearing Aligners: You’ll wear each set of aligners for about 1-2 weeks, for a minimum of 20-22 hours daily.
- Check-Ups: Every 6-8 weeks, you’ll visit Dr. Sheehan to ensure your progress is on track.
- Final Results: Once treatment is complete, you may be given a retainer to help maintain your new smile. This is how Invisalign works to ensure your teeth stay in their new positions, highlighting the importance of wearing retainers for long-lasting results.
Each set of aligners brings you closer to your desired result, making this treatment both convenient and effective.
The Invisalign Experience: What to Expect
Starting your Invisalign journey begins with a consultation with our trusted Waterford Invisalign provider. During this initial visit, Dr. Sheehan will assess your teeth and determine if Invisalign is the right treatment for you. If you are deemed a suitable candidate, a personalized treatment plan will be crafted using advanced clear aligner system technology. This plan will detail the entire treatment process, including the number of aligners you will need and the estimated treatment time.
Once your treatment plan is established, you will receive a series of clear aligners designed to be worn for 22 hours a day. Each aligner is meticulously crafted to make small, precise adjustments to your teeth. You will switch to a new aligner every one to two weeks, gradually progressing towards your desired smile. Periodic visits to Oakland Family Dental are essential to monitor your progress and receive new aligners, ensuring that your treatment stays on track.
Cost of Invisalign Treatment
The cost of Invisalign can vary based on the complexity of your case, but in general, treatment can range from $3,000 to $7,000. Dr. Sheehan and our team at Oakland Family Dental can provide a detailed estimate after evaluating your unique needs. Flexible payment options and insurance may be available to help make your treatment more affordable.
Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces
One of the biggest advantages Invisalign has over traditional braces is convenience. With Invisalign, there are no metal brackets or wires, so patients enjoy greater comfort and freedom. You can remove the aligners to eat whatever you like and easily maintain oral hygiene, which can be challenging with traditional braces. Plus, Invisalign treatment generally requires fewer office visits, making it ideal for busy individuals.
Alternatives to Invisalign
While Invisalign is a highly popular choice for orthodontic treatment, it’s not the only option available. Traditional braces remain a common alternative, particularly effective for more severe types of malocclusion. These braces use metal brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into their correct positions.
Another option is lingual braces, which are installed behind the teeth, making them invisible from the front. This can be an excellent choice for those who want the effectiveness of traditional braces without the visible metal.
Choosing the Right Treatment
When deciding on the best orthodontic treatment, several factors should be considered. One of the primary considerations is the severity of your malocclusion. Invisalign aligners are ideal for moderate malocclusion, while traditional braces may be more effective for more severe cases.
Cost is another important factor. Invisalign treatment cost typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,000, whereas traditional braces can cost between $2,000 to $6,000. It’s important to evaluate your budget and explore any available payment options or insurance coverage.
Treatment time is also a significant consideration. Invisalign treatment times vary depending on the individual, but on average, it takes around 13.5 months. In contrast, traditional braces usually require 18 to 36 months to achieve the desired results.
Lastly, consider the level of convenience and comfort you need. Invisalign aligners are removable and comfortable to wear, offering greater flexibility in your daily routine. Traditional braces, while effective, can be more cumbersome and require more frequent dental visits.
By weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision about the best orthodontic treatment for your needs, ensuring a path to a beautifully aligned smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Most patients complete their Invisalign treatment within 12 to 18 months. However, treatment time can vary depending on the severity of your orthodontic issues.
Are Invisalign clear aligners uncomfortable to wear?
When you first start wearing a new set of Invisalign clear aligners, they may feel slightly uncomfortable or tight. This is completely normal as the clear aligners are designed to fit snugly over your teeth to gradually shift them into their proper position. However, any discomfort typically subsides within a few days of wearing the new clear aligners.
How often do I need to visit the dentist during Invisalign treatment?
You’ll need to visit your dentist or orthodontist every 6 to 8 weeks during your Invisalign treatment plan. These visits are important for monitoring your progress and making any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. At each visit, you’ll receive your next set of aligners to continue the progression of your custom treatment plan.
Start Your Invisalign Journey at Oakland Family Dental
Invisalign offers a practical, modern solution for patients looking to straighten their teeth comfortably and discreetly. With Dr. Sheehan’s experience and personalized care at Oakland Family Dental you can feel confident in your Invisalign journey. If you’re in Waterford or the surrounding areas, reach out by calling (248) 674-0384 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a smile you’ll love to share.