Are you wondering if you’ve missed your opportunity to straighten your teeth?
Stop wondering and call us. We have a no charge, no obligation introductory appointment that will answer many of your questions. Want to know more? Read on.
What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign® is a method of orthodontic treatment that uses clear plastic aligners you wear 20-22 hours a day, taking them out only to eat and brush your teeth. People who play wind instruments may take them out when they practice, and people who play contact sports may take them out to wear an approved mouthguard instead.
When is the Best Time for Invisalign®?
In a perfect world, everyone who needs orthodontic treatment would be able to get it when they are in their teens because their bones are still growing and teeth are a bit easier to adjust.
However, even people who never had orthodontic treatment in their teens will benefit from straightening their teeth as adults. Many adults that had orthodontic treatment in their teens come back as adults for a “tune-up”. You see, teeth never stop moving. As we age our bone density decreases and makes wiggle room in between our teeth. Our teeth will adjust to fill in those spaces. So, unless you are someone who has worn your retainer faithfully your teeth will have shifted.
What Can Invisalign® Fix for Adults?
Invisalign can fix many problems when you have healthy teeth, gums and bones, such as:
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- Underbite – when the lower teeth are in front of the upper teeth when the mouth is closed
- Overbite – when the protrusion of the upper teeth is too great
- Crossbite – when one or two lower teeth are in front of the upper teeth when the mouth is closed
- Gaps
- Crowding
- Open bite – when the teeth do not meet in one or more places when the mouth is closed
How Long Does it Take?
Often adults progress more quickly than teens. When you’ve wanted orthodontic treatment for a while, you are more willing to wear your aligners as directed, and this is the key to Invisalign.
Most adult treatments last from 12 – 18 months, though you can start seeing results in the first three months.
Does Invisalign Treatment Hurt?
Moving teeth is not a painless process but using Invisalign tends to be mildly uncomfortable when you put in a new aligner. This can usually be relieved by preemptively taking an over-the-counter pain medication like Tylenol or Advil starting the day before you break in a new aligner.
Walton & Maready Welcomes Patients of All Ages
Your first visit is free and includes a comprehensive evaluation and x-rays if needed. We look forward to meeting you and exploring the options available to help you have the healthiest and most natural smile possible. Come find out why Walton & Maready is proud to be a Platinum-level Invisalign provider and a WRAL Voters’ Choice Award Winner for Best Orthodontist.
Schedule an appointment in our Raleigh office. We can work with your insurance benefits, and you may be able to take advantage of a health savings account to cover any amount not covered by your insurance. We have convenient payment plans, too.
