Invisalign treatment duration varies depending on the complexity of your case. Most patients achieve their desired results within 12 to 18 months, but minor adjustments may take as little as 6 months, while more severe cases can take up to 24 months. The timeline depends on several factors:

• Severity of the dental issue: Complex cases like overbites, crossbites, or significant gaps take longer to correct.
• Compliance with wearing aligners: Aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day to ensure that teeth shift properly.
• Frequency of dental checkups: Regular visits allow your dentist to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments.

During your initial consultation, your dentist will provide a more personalized estimate based on your orthodontic needs.

Invisalign is generally more comfortable than traditional metal braces, but it’s common to experience mild discomfort or pressure when switching to a new set of aligners. This sensation means that the aligners are actively moving your teeth into the desired position. Typically, discomfort subsides within a few days. Some common experiences include:

• Tightness when wearing new aligners, indicating that they are working effectively.
• Tooth sensitivity during the first few days of wearing a new set.
• Gum irritation in the early stages, which usually resolves as your mouth adjusts.

If you experience prolonged discomfort or significant pain, it’s important to consult your dentist to ensure the aligners fit properly.

No, you should remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything except water. Here’s why:

• Protecting the aligners: Eating with the aligners on can damage them, causing cracks or warping.
• Avoiding stains: Dark-colored foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, or wine can stain the aligners.
• Preventing bacterial buildup: Food particles can get trapped between your teeth and the aligners, leading to plaque buildup, bad breath, and tooth decay.

After eating, brush your teeth before placing the aligners back in to maintain good oral hygiene.

Keeping your aligners clean is essential for maintaining oral hygiene and the clarity of the aligners. Follow these steps:

• Rinse the aligners under lukewarm water whenever you remove them to remove saliva and bacteria.
• Brush the aligners gently using a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and scratch the surface of the aligners.
• Soak the aligners in a specialized cleaning solution, such as Invisalign cleaning crystals or a retainer cleaner, to help remove stains and keep them fresh.

Clean aligners ensure that your treatment remains discreet and effective.

Invisalign offers several advantages compared to traditional metal braces:

• Discreet appearance: The clear aligners are nearly invisible, allowing you to straighten your teeth without the noticeable metal brackets.
• Comfortable fit: The smooth, plastic aligners are more comfortable than braces, which can irritate the gums and cheeks.
• Removable aligners: You can remove Invisalign aligners when eating, drinking, or brushing, allowing for better oral hygiene and no food restrictions.
• Fewer office visits: Invisalign typically requires fewer checkups compared to traditional braces, as there are no wires to adjust.

These benefits make Invisalign a popular choice for adults and teens seeking a more flexible and aesthetic orthodontic treatment.

The cost of Invisalign treatment varies based on the complexity of the case and the length of treatment. On average, Invisalign ranges from $3,000 to $7,000. Factors that influence cost include:

• Severity of misalignment: More complex cases typically require a longer treatment period, which can increase costs.
• Insurance coverage: Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost, particularly if Invisalign is deemed medically necessary.

Ascend Dentistry offers flexible payment plans to make Invisalign treatment more affordable.

Invisalign is effective for treating many common orthodontic issues, including:

• Crowded teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crossbite
• Open bite

However, severe cases of malocclusion or jaw alignment issues may require traditional braces or other orthodontic treatments. During your consultation, your dentist will determine whether Invisalign is the right solution for your specific needs.

Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for Invisalign, especially if the treatment is considered medically necessary to correct bite issues or malocclusion. It’s recommended to check with your insurance provider to understand the extent of your coverage. At Ascend Dentistry, we also offer payment plans to help make Invisalign affordable for all patients.