Invisalign® is the leading brand of invisible braces. Patients at Lanier Family and Cosmetic Dentistry love the convenience and comfort that Invisalign offers. It allows teens and adults to reposition their teeth without metal wire brackets and braces. This clear aligner orthodontic treatment is one of the top cosmetic dental services we provide to our patients. Our dental team can assess our teeth and offer Invisalign in Buford, GA if you qualify.
Is Invisalign® Right For You?
Invisalign was initially created for adult patients, but teens can now benefit from it. Patients with certain oral health issues will not qualify for this orthodontic treatment. If you suffer from gum disease, oral infections, or cavities, we cannot recommend Invisalign. Before you use it, we suggest treatment for the above problems. Additionally, patients with dental implants or a dental bridge will not qualify for Invisalign.
While Invisalign treats various orthodontic issues, it may not be suitable for your particular issue. The treatment is perfect for patients with mild to moderate orthodontic issues. Complex orthodontic cases involving significant bite problems or severe misalignment require traditional braces or other specialized treatments.
Our dentists use Invisalign “clear braces” to treat a variety of conditions including:
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Narrow tooth arches
- Crooked teeth
- Underbite, overbite or cross-bite
The Benefits of Invisalign®
- They Have a High Success Rate: Our dentists choose to offer Invisalign at our Buford, Georgia dental office because it is successful and it has a high level of patient and dentist satisfaction.
- They’re Invisible: Patients love Invisalign because they are discreet. The Invisalign clear braces are made from an ultra-thin, clear, hard-soft plastic.
- They’re Removable: The aligners are removable so patients can take them out whenever they want to eat, brush or floss, and for special occasions.
- They’re Comfortable: The aligners are custom-fitted to your teeth based on an impression taken by the dentist.
- Treatment is So Easy: Depending on the patient’s goals, they will wear a series of aligners for about two weeks each. Most patients see results from their Invisalign treatment in 6 – 12 months.
- They’re Safe and Gentle: Dentists love Invisalign because it is safe, gentle, and effective. The patented invisible braces system does not damage teeth or gums. Patients can brush and floss normally, leading to better health during treatment. Unlike metal braces, food does not become lodged around brackets, causing teeth to wear and stain.
What to Expect: Getting Started with Invisalign®
Getting started with Invisalign is easier than you think. The first step is to schedule a consultation with your dentist to determine if this is the proper treatment for you. Starting the treatment process is more manageable for patients than traditional braces because it does not involve placing metal wires or brackets. The Invisalign process typically involves the following steps:
- Initial consultation: During your primary appointment, your dentist will assess your oral health, learn more about your cosmetic goals, and determine if Invisalign is a proper treatment option for you.
- Pre-treatment dental work: Before starting Invisalign, your dentist will address any other dental issues that need to be fixed. This may include cleaning, treating gum problems, root canal treatment, or tooth extractions.
- Digital scanning: Your dentist will take 3-D images of your entire mouth to create a digital model of your mouth and teeth. We will use this precise, 3-D model to create your custom Invisalign aligners.
- Treatment planning: Based on the 3D images, your dentist will develop a treatment plan, including the cost, timeline, and schedule of appointments. They will also provide instructions on how to wear and care for your aligners.
- Fitting the first tray: Once your Invisalign trays are ready, you’ll return to our dental office, where we will ensure a precise fit. Your dentist may place small pieces on your teeth, called attachments, to hold the aligners in place.
Invisalign® FAQs
Invisalign may not be suitable for you or your teen. The success of the treatment is based on several factors, such as cost, qualifying for treatment, and complying with treatment. We put together a list of popular, frequently asked questions for our patients to review. If you are interested in Invisalign but still have many questions, please start here. If we did not address your question or concern, contact our office for further help.
How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost of Invisalign treatment depends on the patient’s condition. Factors that are considered are the desired results and the number of aligners needed to reposition the teeth into the desired outcome. Your dentist will review all of your treatment costs during an initial consult.
How long does Invisalign take?
The length of treatment depends on the patient’s condition and desired results. Most patients will complete treatment in 6 to 12 months. Select cases may be completed in less than six months; these are patients who simply need minor tooth movement or treatment for orthodontic relapse. Patients who need more significant tooth movement may take nine months or more.
How many hours a day should I wear an Invisalign?
It’s recommended that you wear you Invisalign aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours each day. Wearing them for that length of time everyday is necessary for an effective treatment. This ensures that your teeth are constantly being guided into their desired positions. You can remove the aligners to eat, brush your teeth, and for special occasions. Otherwise, they need to remain on your teeth even when you are sleeping. The more consistently you wear them, the more effective your treatment will be.
Does Invisalign change your face shape?
Invisalign may change the shape of a patient’s face slightly. The goal of Invisalign is to realign crooked teeth. This means shifting bone structure. Any shift in bone structure may cause a patients face to change shape. This is very rare, however. When it does happen, the changes are usually positive since it aligns the bone structure in a patient’s face.
Is Invisalign painful?
Clear aligner therapy is generally less painful than traditional braces. Most of our patients claim to experience mild discomfort, especially when switching aligners. The discomfort stems from the pressure applied to move teeth. Most of them adjust within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can relieve discomfort. Your Burford dentist will offer you extra tips for managing pain. Proper aligner care can also reduce discomfort. Also, please let us know if the aligners do not fit correctly. Misaligned or damaged aligners can cause pain. Regular check-ups help ensure a smooth treatment process.
How do I care for my clear aligners?
Proper care extends the life of Invisalign aligners. Patients should clean their aligners daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or a special Invisalign cleaner. Never use hot water, which can warp aligners. Rinse aligners under lukewarm water before putting them back in, especially after eating. Store aligners in their case when not in use. Regularly clean the case to prevent bacteria buildup. You must maintain oral hygiene because it is crucial during Invisalign treatment. Brush and floss after every meal to prevent food particles from getting trapped under the aligners. Proper care ensures the aligners remain clear and effective.
Can adults use Invisalign?
Invisalign is a fitting treatment for adults too. Many of our adult patients prefer it due to its discreet appearance. This minimal alteration to their smile makes them feel more comfortable in professional and social settings. Clear aligner treatment is effective no matter how old you are. Adults seek Invisalign to correct long-standing issues or becuase of orthodontic relapse. It can enhance both oral health and aesthetics. Invisalign offers flexibility for busy adult lifestyles and allows for normal eating and cleaning routines. However, you must schedule a consultation to see if this treatment meets your specific goals. Invisalign can lead to improved confidence and a healthier smile.
What happens after Invisalign treatment?
After Invisalign treatment, you will need to wear a retainer. Wearing a retainer is a vital part of Invisalign aftercare because it will hold teeth in their new positions. We will provide you with a custom retainer that will meet your individual needs. Your dentist will instruct you on how and when to wear it. This step is crucial for long-term success of your clear aligner treatment. Regular dental check-ups remain essential to make sure your retainer is working and to keep it clean. They help ensure that teeth stay in alignment.
Retainers prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Patients should follow their dentist’s advice on retainer wear. Proper retainer care is important for maintaining results. This keeps smiles straight and beautiful for years to come.
If you think you are a good candidate for the Invisalign clear aligners system or are unsure, give us a call at (678) 359-4707, or request an appointment online today.