Frequently Asked Questions
How does Invisalign work?
Rather than using metal wires like braces, Invisalign uses a custom-made series of clear aligners that you slip over your teeth. The aligner trays are made of a smooth, comfortable, and nearly invisible plastic that will gradually shift your teeth into place. As your teeth shift, you will replace your set of aligners with a new set.
What problems can Invisalign solve?
Invisalign works as well as braces to correct problems including gapped teeth, crooked teeth, crowding, overbite, and underbite.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Many people see the results they want in about six months. You’ll start seeing results in a matter of weeks. Generally, Invisalign straightens teeth faster than braces. Of course, the length of treatment depends on the complexity of the case.
Is Invisalign better than braces?
For many people, yes. The best choice often depends on your specific situation, and our dentists will help you determine that during your free consultation. Like braces, Invisalign will help straighten your teeth. But many people prefer Invisalign because they’re less visible, you can take them out to eat and brush, and they often stratighen teeth faster than braces can.
What steps are involved in an Invisalign treatment?
- All treatments begin with a free consultation here at Lawen Dentistry. Your dentist will examine your teeth, review if and how Invisalign can help you, and go over the treatment costs.
- If you decide to go ahead with Invisalign, we will take a digital scan of your mouth, along with x-rays and photographs.
- About three weeks later, you will return to watch a computerized animation of how your teeth will shift with an Invisalign treatment. At this stage we will know how many sets of aligners your treatment will require, and we can map out your custom treatment plan.
- Your first set of clear aligner trays—created just for you based on your digital scan—will be ready about three weeks later.
- For best results, wear your Invisalign clear aligners 24 hours/day. Take them out as little as possible.
- Your dentist will guide you to schedule face-to-face check-ups every few weeks to check your progress and pick up the next batch of aligners.
- After you’ve progressed through all your sets of aligners, your treatment is complete! To help your teeth stay in their new position, your dentist will provide you with a set of upper and lower retainers. After your teeth’s position firms up, you’ll need to wear the retainers every night for as long as you want your teeth to remain straight.
How much does Invisalign cost?
It depends on the complexity of the case, and how many sets of aligners are needed. For most people, the cost of Invisalign is between $3,000 and $5,000—but the only way to get an accurate cost for you is to have a free consultation with your Lawen Dentistry dentist.
How do I care for my aligners?
Easy—just brush them with toothpaste and rinse them in lukewarm water.
How do I start?
We offer a free virtual consultation where we review the Invisalign process, answer any questions you might have about treatment time and costs. Simply call our office to schedule an appointment.
