What is Invisalign?

Do you want beautifully straight teeth but cannot imagine life with braces? Have you already had braces and are looking for an alternative solution? Consider Invisalign! Dr. Mary Walton and Dr. Elizabeth Maready of Walton & Maready Orthodontics can determine if Invisalign is a good option for you during a complimentary consultation.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a series of clear, custom-fitted, removable plastic aligners that fit over a patient’s teeth like a thin, close-fitting mouth guard. These aligners are engineered to incrementally move a patient’s teeth over time to their desired positions. Some patients refer to these aligners as “invisible braces,” which generally follow these guidelines: 

• • • Each aligner is typically worn for 1 week, then replaced by the next aligner in the series
    • If an aligner is lost or broken, the patient simply moves to the next aligner
    • Daily wear time is 20 hours per day
    • The total number of aligners in the series depends on the particular orthodontic problems
    • Most patients will need temporary tooth-colored bumps or “attachments” placed on the teeth that help the aligners move the teeth properly

What is Invisalign Made of? 

Invisalign aligners are customized trays made from “polyurethane resins,” a special kind of BPA-free plastic. While the material is strong enough to shift teeth over time through focused pressure, they are also comfortable enough to wear without any issue. 

How Long Does Invisalign Take? 

The total treatment time required is typically the same length of time as traditional braces. The exact length of time is dependent on the issues that need to be corrected. Often adult treatments 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.

What to Expect with Invisalign

Invisalign aligners are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment, plus brushing and flossing are less difficult. The aligners are more comfortable than metal or ceramic braces. However, Invisalign can only correct certain problems. When you have your free consultation with Dr. Walton or Dr. Maready, they will discuss if Invisalign is a treatment option for you.

Embarking on your Invisalign journey involves several stages, each designed to ensure effective and comfortable treatment:

1. Adjustment Period: Initially, you might feel some discomfort as your teeth begin to move. This is normal and usually subsides after a few days.
2. Daily Wear: You’ll need to wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day. Consistency is key to achieving the best results.
3. Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. Brush and floss regularly, and clean your aligners to prevent plaque buildup.
4. Dietary Habits: Since aligners are removable, you can continue to enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions. Just remember to take out your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water.
5. Progress Check-ups: Regular visits to your orthodontist are essential to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.

What is the Invisalign Process?

The process of getting Invisalign is straightforward and begins with a consultation with an orthodontist or dentist who is trained in Invisalign treatment. Here’s a step-by-step look at how it works:

1. Initial Consultation: Your orthodontist will assess your teeth and determine if Invisalign is the right treatment for you.
2. Custom Treatment Plan: If you’re a good candidate, a detailed 3D digital scan of your teeth will be taken. This scan is used to create a custom treatment plan that maps out the movement of your teeth.
3. Creation of Aligners: Based on your treatment plan, a series of custom aligners will be made specifically for you. Each set of aligners is slightly different, gradually moving your teeth towards their final position.
4. Wearing Aligners: You’ll wear each set of aligners for about two weeks, for 20 to 22 hours a day, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss.
5. Regular Check-ups: Every 6-8 weeks, you’ll have check-ups with your orthodontist to monitor your progress and receive the next sets of aligners.
6. Completion: Once your treatment is complete, you may need to wear retainers to ensure your teeth stay in their new positions.

Does Insurance Cover Invisalign?

Many insurance carriers offer insurance coverage. The staff at Walton & Maready Orthodontics will verify insurance coverage with you prior to Invisalign treatment and advise you of your payment options.

How to Get Invisalign

The first step is contacting Walton & Maready Orthodontics, an Elite Invisalign Provider, in Raleigh, North Carolina. From there, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Walton or Dr. Maready to have a free consultation. If they feel you are a good candidate for treatment with Invisalign, they will begin the process of fitting you for custom aligners.

While Invisalign isn’t the right solution for every orthodontic case, these clear aligners can treat many issues. They offer a great alternative to traditional braces and can fit seamlessly into your lifestyle to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Could Invisalign be right for you? Contact Walton & Maready Orthodontics for Invisalign in Raleigh, North Carolina today!

invisalign, iTero® 3D scanner