Invisalign teeth straightening is the “clear” alternative to metal braces
If you are considering the ways available to straighten your teeth but want to avoid metal bracket-and-wire braces, we invite you to talk to the Redmond Smiles team in Redmond, Washington, about the benefits of Invisalign orthodontics. Invisalign is a way of straightening the teeth with clear aligners for a beautiful smile from start to finish!
How Invisalign works to achieve results?
Patients ready to straighten their teeth are excited to start their Invisalign treatment. Patients have a series of digital dental scans performed to get a 3D image of their smile in the computer. Then, the professionals at the Invisalign laboratories create a series of clear trays that are used to gently move the teeth into proper positions. Patients need to comply closely with treatment to ensure they get the results they desire in the expected timeframe.
What is the average cost of Invisalign?
Many patients looking for an affordable way to straighten teeth may think that Invisalign is outside the realm of possibilities. However, Invisalign is more affordable than ever, often comparable in cost to traditional metal braces. We invite our patients to book a consultation visit with our dentists to learn more about the treatment and the expected costs.
Who is a good candidate for Invisalign?
The best way to determine candidacy for this and other services is to book a consultation appointment with Dr. Colby Eckland. During this time, an evaluation is performed to decide if this treatment is appropriate for a teenager or adult seeking restoration and rehabilitation of their smile. Invisalign may be combined with other treatments for a smile makeover, depending on the actual severity of misalignment present in the patient’s current smile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
How long does Invisalign treatment typically take?
The length of Invisalign treatment depends on your specific alignment needs. On average, many patients complete treatment within 12 to 18 months. Mild spacing or crowding cases may finish sooner, while more complex bite issues can take longer. Your dentist creates a customized plan based on digital scans and your treatment goals. Wearing aligners consistently and changing them on schedule plays a major role in staying on track. Following instructions carefully helps ensure teeth move as planned and prevents unnecessary delays.
What are the main benefits of choosing Invisalign over traditional braces?
Invisalign aligners are clear and discreet, making them a popular choice for patients who want a less noticeable option. The smooth plastic material is generally more comfortable than metal brackets and wires. Because aligners are removable, you can eat your favorite foods and brush and floss without having to navigate around hardware. Many patients also appreciate that Invisalign often requires fewer in-office adjustments than traditional braces, making treatment more convenient for busy schedules.
How frequently should I wear my Invisalign aligners throughout the day?
For the best results, aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours daily. They should only be removed for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing. Consistent wear allows teeth to shift gradually according to your treatment plan. Skipping hours can delay progress and extend overall treatment time. Building aligner wear into your daily routine, such as putting them back in immediately after meals, helps maintain consistency.
Will wearing Invisalign affect my speech?
A few patients experience a mild lisp in the initial days of using aligners. This adjustment period is temporary, and most people adapt quickly as their tongue becomes accustomed to the trays. Reading aloud or practicing conversations can help speed up the adjustment. In most cases, speech returns to normal within a short time, and aligners become barely noticeable in both appearance and sound.
What should I do if I lose or damage an aligner?
If an aligner is lost or cracked, contact your dental office as soon as possible for guidance. You may be advised to wear your previous set temporarily until a replacement is available. It is important not to skip ahead to the next aligner without professional approval, as this could affect tooth movement. To reduce the risk of loss or damage, always store aligners in their protective case when not in use and keep them away from heat.
Are there any dietary restrictions while using Invisalign?
One advantage of Invisalign is that there are no strict food restrictions because aligners are removed before eating. However, you should always take them out before meals or drinks other than water. After eating, brush your teeth before reinserting the aligners to prevent staining and food particles from getting trapped. Maintaining good oral hygiene during treatment supports both tooth health and the effectiveness of clear aligners.
How often do I need to visit the orthodontist during Invisalign treatment?
Patients typically return for check-ups every six to eight weeks. During these visits, your dentist monitors progress, ensures teeth are moving properly, and provides the next set of aligners. These appointments are important for keeping treatment on schedule and addressing any concerns early. Scheduling flexibility is often available to accommodate work, school, or family commitments.
Does Invisalign hurt?
Invisalign is generally comfortable. However, you may feel mild pressure or tightness when you start a new set of aligners. That’s completely normal, and that’s a good sign. It means your treatment is working and transforming your smile. The discomfort is usually temporary and fades within a few days. If it persists, contact your dentist.
Do clear aligners affect how I speak?
At first, you might notice a slight lisp as your tongue and lips adjust to the aligners in the mouth. This is normal and typically resolves within a few days. You can transition faster by practicing speaking, especially tricky words. Soon, your speech will feel natural again.
What happens if I lose or damage my aligner?
Don’t panic—it happens! Contact your Redmond, Washington, Invisalign dentist immediately to stay on track with your treatment. Depending on your progress, your dentist may recommend wearing the previous set of aligners as you wait for replacement aligners. The dentist may also advise you to move to the next set of aligners. Aligner damage or loss can happen, but acting quickly makes all the difference.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Treatment time depends on the complexity of your case. While everyone is unique, the average treatment time is 6-18 months, although this time could extend if you fail to comply with treatment. As directed, wear your aligners for 20-22 hours and switch them as per your schedule.
Does insurance cover the cost of Invisalign?
Does your insurance have orthodontic benefits? If yes, it’s likely to cover your Invisalign cost, either as a percentage of total cost or a certain dollar amount. We’ll review your insurance and outline the applicable benefits.
Can Invisalign clear aligners work with veneers or crowns?
Yes, but it requires careful planning. Talk to your Redmond dentist if you have dental work done. The doctor will create a treatment plan that ensures safe and effective results.
What should I do after Invisalign treatment?
After Invisalign treatment, you enter the retention phase. Your dentist will provide you with retainer options to help maintain your teeth in their newly straightened positions. Failing to wear the retainer may lead to an orthodontic relapse, undoing your hard-earned results. Every case is different, but you’ll most likely need a retainer.
Are you looking for a strategy to help you achieve straighter, better-aligned teeth?
If your smile is imperfect but could benefit from orthodontic treatment, it may be time to talk to Dr. Eckland of Redmond, WA, about the benefits of Invisalign teeth straightening. Forget metal appliances; instead, consider clear aligners for teeth realignment! Call (425) 584-1192 to request an appointment at the office, conveniently located at 15965 NE 85th Street, Ste. #201. We serve children and adults from the areas of Bellevue, Kirkland, Sammamish, and Woodinville, WA!
