Teeth Straightening
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Clear aligners are a great alternative to traditional braces for many people who want straighter and more beautiful smiles. Many dentists and orthodontists choose Invisalign treatment as their preferred clear aligner treatment program.
The first step in getting an Invisalign treatment is to book an initial consultation. You can ask your dentist or use the internet to find top-rated orthodontists in your area offering Invisalign consultations. Some may offer free consultations while others may charge a fee.
An in-depth consultation with your orthodontist will usually involve:
ZocDoc can help you find a dentist in your area that:
Each doctor will have a slightly different orthodontic consultation process, depending on their practice. However, there are some things that all patients can expect.
The first appointment will typically take the longest, generally lasting one to two hours. If you’re a new visitor, clinic staff will gather your medical and dental history.
After recording your medical history, your dentist will perform a comprehensive assessment of your teeth, which may include all or some of the following:
The next step is to discuss your treatment plan. Before your dentist sends your impressions to the Invisalign lab, they will talk you through the next steps of the process.
Your dentist will provide estimations on how long your treatment will take and how often you need to come back for checkups. If they have their own scanner, they will be able to provide you with a digital model of your future smile.
Your doctor will review your case with you, as well as discuss payment options for your Invisalign treatment. Once the lab (either in-house or via mail to Invisalign) has your impressions, they will begin to form your custom plastic aligners.
Your next appointment will take place once your custom aligners have arrived at the dental office. The doctor will discuss a few reminders with you, including:
Your dentist will also answer any questions you may have. You will leave the office with your first set of aligners, which should last you approximately six to eight weeks.
Some people require special tooth-colored attachments, which help the aligners shift your teeth more effectively. They blend in with your natural teeth and your aligners will have small enclosures to fit these attachments.
Invisalign attachments often make it difficult to remove and insert your trays initially. However, the attachments become worn down and smoother over time.
Interested in straightening your teeth at home? Here are the best clear aligner companies.
After receiving your aligners, you’ll follow up with your doctor every six to eight weeks. Your dentist will perform a thorough check-up and make sure your teeth are moving properly.
You will also receive your next set of aligners. Your dentist will then let you know when you need to come back for the next checkup.
People with more severe cases will sometimes need to follow up more frequently. There are discreet metal buttons and elastics that can be used to help move teeth properly.
The average treatment time is 12 to 18 months. However, you may start seeing results in a few weeks. The treatment time varies between 6 to 24 months, depending on the severity of your condition.
Invisalign is a very effective treatment option for minor to moderately misaligned teeth. Over nine million people (including more than 1.4 million teens) have undergone Invisalign treatment.
Here are some of its benefits:
ZocDoc can help you find a dentist in your area that:
Yes, many Invisalign doctors offer free initial consultations. However, not all doctors do. Speak with a specialist beforehand to determine how much the consultation will cost.
The cost of Invisalign generally falls between $3,000 and $7,000. The total cost depends on the complexity of the case and the length of treatment needed.
Invisalign’s cost may be partially covered by dental insurance. Most dental insurance plans cover Invisalign the same way they cover braces.
Invisalign is a teeth straightening treatment that can help many patients achieve a straight smile.
It can help people with:
Not everyone is an ideal candidate for Invisalign aligners.
Severe cases like severe jaw malocclusion, impacted teeth, or missing teeth may require alternative treatment such as metal braces. This is why the initial consultation and digital scan are so important.
Invisalign's Smile Concierge Team can help you make an appointment with an Invisalign-trained doctor near you. They can also answer any questions you may have.
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