Invisalign, also termed as clear aligner, is a type of orthodontic treatment used to straighten misaligned or improperly positioned teeth without using metal braces. It consists of a series of clear aligners that are placed over misaligned teeth periodically. Invisalign Toronto gradually and gently straightens teeth and shifts them to the proper positions.
Moreover, clear aligners are not permanently fixed to teeth, like retainers, they can also be taken off for eating purposes or while brushing your teeth.
How Does Invisalign Straighten Teeth?
The placement procedure of Invisalign is generally completed in 2 to 3 dental appointments, but patients are supposed to visit their dentist periodically to get the aligners replaced with a new set. At the initial consultation, the dentist evaluates patients’ dental problems in a detailed manner.
The assessment will include a series of X-rays, radiographs, and impressions of the patient’s teeth. The tooth impressions then developed into a 3D model. This 3D model enables dentists or orthodontists to create an individualized treatment plan in order to specifically cater to the requirements of patients.
The proper treatment plan includes a series of thin, clear aligners that specially made according to the patient’s mouth. A clear aligner is typically worn for two weeks until it is replaced with a new one. Every set of aligners has a slightly different size and shape, which causes misaligned teeth to shift into the desired position.
By the end of the treatment period, the patient’s teeth will have moved into a straighter and more aligned position, providing them with a perfect and attractive smile.
How Long Does Invisalign Take To Work?
The time this orthodontic treatment requires depends on a variety of factors, including the condition of the bite and how crooked or crowded the patient’s teeth are. On average, this treatment process lasts for about a year, but in some severe cases, it can last up to two years or more.
Aligners needed to worn consistently for approximately 20 to 22 hours a day for the entire duration of the treatment. The results of Invisalign greatly depend on how consistently a person wears them.
Is Invisalign Better Than Conventional Braces?
Invisalign is a modern approach in dentistry and considered a far better option than conventional metal braces. Patients with Invisalign usually have better gums as compared to patients with fixed braces. Furthermore, clear aligners also reduce the chance of developing tooth decay and poor breath because of being removable.
People can wash the aligners and brush or floss their teeth anytime they want. For cleaning these invisible trays, it is best to soak them in a specialized cleaning solution, and one should also brush them regularly. On the other hand, metal braces cover a large portion of your teeth, and within the crevices of the braces, food debris gets stuck.
Certain bacteria are also responsible for plaque and tartar that usually cultivated by left-over foods. Moreover, with clear aligners, one does not have to stress about food limitations. However, people should still watch what they eat and stay away from sugary or starchy food.
The Results Of Invisalign Treatment
Invisalign treatment’s anticipated outcomes mainly depend on how crooked the patient’s teeth are, as well as how consistent they have been with wearing clear aligners. In addition to pushing teeth into their proper position, various issues like underbites, overbites, overcrowding, and gapped teeth, fixed by Invisalign, and as the Invisalign technology advances. Its ability to deliver enhanced and better results is becoming incomparable and incredible.
What is the Cost of Getting Invisalign?
The approximate Invisalign treatment costs are inconsistent and vary greatly depending on the following factors, which usually include:
- The Geographical Location
The cost of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the patient’s location. However, the approximate costs of Invisalign generally ranges from $3500 to $8500.
- The Severity of Your Dental Issue
If someone has severe teeth alignment issues, they might need to wear clear aligners for prolonged periods and the duration of treatment could also take a little longer. On average, this orthodontic treatment usually lasts between 12 to 18 months. However, people will notice slight improvement in their teeth’ alignment a few weeks after they begin the Invisalign treatment.
For rapid results, it recommended to wear the aligners for about 22 hours daily. Rather than estimating the cost, it is best to first have a consultation session with the orthodontist. In this way, one can get an exact cost estimate and will know more precisely how much they will need to pay.
- How Much the Insurance Plan Covers
If someone has dental insurance, it might cover a specific portion of treatment costs. Generally, insurance policies can cover $3,000 to $3,5000 out of Invisalign treatment expenses.
- The Orthodontist’s Experience
The Invisalign treatment costs can also fluctuate depending on the orthodontist’s proficiencies and experience. Going for the best dental professionals may result in a higher treatment cost, but it serves well in the long run.
Benefits Of Invisalign
Invisalign or clear aligners are less visible as compared to metal braces, and others might not even notice. You are wearing them, making this treatment a seamless fit with your lifestyle. Moreover, patients usually do not have any food or drink restrictions after getting clear aligners, and it is easier to clean. Invisalign provides the same result as conventional braces but without exerting unwanted side effects.
Clear aligners also have multiple other benefits as well including:
- Fewer dental visits.
- No food adjustments.
- Look better.
- More comfortable.
- Safe for children, adolescents, and adults.
- Fixes dental Issues like overbite or underbite.
It usually takes a couple of days for the patient’s mouth used to having Invisalign aligners in their mouth, and in the first few days, they might have a slight lisp. But this disappears quickly within a few days. For improved results, it is necessary to wear clear aligners for almost 20 to 22 hours a day.
Also Read: How Does Invisalign Work, Its Advantages and Treatment?