Invisalign: The Clear Alternative to Braces

When your dentist gives you the news that you or your child needs braces, many things will likely go through your mind - the cost, the process, how you'll look with braces, and the months or years of cleanings and adjustments. If you're a candidate for braces, there are now some wonderful alternatives to the traditional, wiry-looking braces. One alternative that many dental patients are raving about is Invisalign.

Invisalign provides a safe, effective alternative that allows you to go through teeth-straightening procedures without anyone noticing. Invisalign treatment provides the same benefits as regular braces, but without the hassle and embarrassment. The Invisalign manufacturer, Align Technology, was founded in 1997, and thousands of patients have been treated with their amazing technology.

Let's look at what Invisalign can offer to anyone who needs to have his or her teeth straightened.

How Invisalign Works

Invisalign works using a 3-D computer imaging system, which depicts a complete treatment plan for the patient, starting with the initial position of the teeth to the final desired position. A series of custom-made aligners are created, and each aligner moves the teeth incrementally over about a two-week period. After approximately two weeks, the aligner is replaced with the next in the series until the final positioning is achieved.

The aligners are nearly invisible (hence the name "Invisalign), and are made of strong, clear medical grade plastic. They closely resemble tooth-whitening trays, except the aligners are custom-fitted for each individual.

Why So Many are Opting for Invisalign

Invisalign offers a number of benefits for orthodontic patients and is comparable in price to traditional braces. The national average cost of Invisalign is $5,000, but some treatments can cost as little as $3,500 depending on the complexity of the patient's malocclusion. Many dentists are willing to work out a finance plan for patients without insurance coverage.

Invisalign patients also benefit because the aligners are removable. This means they can eat or drink what they like during treatment. Patients can brush and floss their teeth normally, so oral hygiene is not a nuisance as it is with traditional braces. Invisalign is also comfortable for the gums and lips because there are no metal wires and brackets. Invisalign works well for teens who like to play sports because there is no risk of injury to the mouth. Another benefit of Invisalign is that patients can view their treatment plan and have the opportunity to see how their teeth will look before treatment even begins.

Invisalign can be used to correct a broad spectrum of dental or orthodontic needs. The aligners help with overly crowded teeth, widely spaced teeth, a crossbite, an overbite, and an underbite. And the results? A healthy, beautiful smile!

If considering Invisalign as an orthodontic treatment option, talk with your dentist about this new amazing orthodontic technique. If searching online for an Invisalign specialist, use search engine keywords specific to your area. For example, if you live in or near Phoenix, Arizona, you can type in "Invisalign Phoenix" or "Phoenix Invisalign." If you live in Scottsdale, then you can search for "Scottsdale Invisalign" or "Invisalign Scottsdale." Specific online searches will help you locate dentists near you who are trained to provide Invisalign treatment.

With Invisalign, the step-by-step process to achieving a brilliant smile will be much more comfortable, and in most cases faster and easier than traditional wire and band braces!