What is Invisalign<sup>®</sup>?
What is Invisalign®?

Invisalign is a system of clear, removable aligners custom-made to straighten teeth gradually into their ideal positions. It is a popular alternative to traditional braces for people seeking a discreet and comfortable way to achieve a straighter smile. These aligners are made of a smooth, comfortable, BPA-free plastic that is virtually invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. The treatment process involves a series of these aligners that are replaced every few weeks as teeth gradually shift into the desired position.

How Treatment Works with Invisalign®

Invisalign treatment involves a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually move your teeth into the ideal position. The aligners are custom-made for your teeth and are switched out every one to two weeks to adjust to the movement of your teeth. Patients must wear their aligners for at least 20-22 hours daily to move teeth effectively. Treatment with Invisalign typically lasts between 6-24 months, depending on the severity of the misalignment. Regular check-ups with Dr. Yue are required to monitor progress and ensure the aligners fit properly.

How Treatment Works with Invisalign<sup>®</sup>
Invisalign<sup>®</sup> Teen
Invisalign® Teen

How Treatment Works with Invisalign?
Invisalign Teen has become a popular orthodontic treatment among teenagers who are seeking a more discreet and comfortable option for straightening their teeth. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign Teen aligners are clear, removable, and custom-made to fit over a teenager's teeth to shift them into the desired position gradually. However, parents often need to pay more attention to whether their child will wear the aligners for the recommended time. To address this concern, Invisalign Teen aligners come with blue compliance indicators that fade over time as the aligners are worn. This feature allows parents, dentists, and orthodontists to monitor the duration of wear and ensure that the treatment plan is being followed correctly. With these benefits, Invisalign Teen provides a convenient and effective solution for teenagers to achieve a confident, beautiful smile.

Invisalign® FAQ's

What are the primary benefits of Invisalign?

The primary benefits of Invisalign include its discreet appearance, comfortable fit, and convenience for daily activities such as eating and brushing. In addition, Invisalign's custom-made aligners gradually shift teeth into the desired position, providing a highly effective alternative to traditional metal braces.

Does Invisalign work for everyone?

While Invisalign can be an effective orthodontic treatment for many people, it may not be suitable for everyone. The decision to use Invisalign will depend on factors such as the complexity of the dental issues being addressed and the patient's level of commitment to wearing the aligners for the recommended amount of time.

How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign works by using a series of clear, removable aligners that are custom-made to fit over a patient's teeth. Each aligner applies gentle pressure to gradually shift the teeth into the desired position, and the patient switches to a new aligner every one to two weeks. Over time, this process effectively moves the teeth into their correct alignment.

What is the cost of Invisalign?

The cost of Invisalign treatment varies depending on several factors, including the length and complexity of the treatment and the location of the orthodontic practice. In general, Invisalign can be more expensive than traditional metal braces, but many patients find the benefits of Invisalign, such as its discreet appearance and convenience, to be worth the additional cost.

Will my insurance cover Invisalign?

In general, if a patient has orthodontic coverage, Invisalign is usually covered to the same extent as conventional braces. However, it's always best to check with your insurance provider or orthodontist to determine the specifics of your policy and coverage for Invisalign treatment. If you have any questions about your policy specifically, please contact us at 630.323.7906

Is Invisalign as effective as traditional metal braces?

Invisalign has been proven to be an effective orthodontic treatment option for many patients, particularly those with mild to moderate dental issues. A consultation with Dr. Yue will determine if Invisalign is right for you.

How long does treatment with Invisalign take?

On average, treatment with Invisalign can take between 3 and 24 months, although some patients may see results in as little as six months.

What materials are the aligners made of? Are they comfortable?

Invisalign aligners are made of a thermoplastic material called SmartTrack, which is designed to fit snugly and comfortably over the teeth. SmartTrack material is known for its flexibility and durability, allowing the aligners to apply the necessary pressure to gradually shift teeth into the desired position. Patients typically find Invisalign aligners to be comfortable and easy to wear, with few, if any, issues with irritation or discomfort.

What foods should be avoided during Invisalign treatment?

During Invisalign treatment, patients should avoid foods that are sticky, hard, or sugary, as these can damage the aligners and increase the risk of tooth decay. Some examples of foods to avoid include chewing gum, hard candy, popcorn, and nuts.

Dr. Yue and his staff are the best! Very thorough and take the time to explain treatments and answer any questions. My treatment is going well.