Invisalign is a method used to straighten teeth, similar to braces. However, Invisalign is invisible and custom- designed for your teeth. It is made of plastic and looks similar to a teeth-whitening tray. Invisalign consists of clear aligners that move your teeth little by little using controlled force. Only certain teeth are moved at a time. Each aligner is used for about two weeks at a time, until you achieve the perfect smile. Your dentist will create an individualized treatment plan using 3-D computer technology. Average treatment time is about one year.

Unlike braces, Invisalign is removable. Removing the aligner is actually required before eating, drinking, chewing gum and brushing and flossing your teeth. Because of this, there are no dietary restrictions ? you can eat and drink as usual. There are no wires or brackets involved, so there is no risk or breaking any parts. However, smoking is not recommended while using Invisalign, as it can cause staining. Invisalign is FDA-approved and carries no known health risks. Virtually no pain is felt while using it. After each treatment, users may experience some pressure, but it only lasts a few days. It may be difficult to talk clearly after each treatment as well, but it only lasts a day or two.

The cost of Invisalign varies based on your needs. This can depend on your insurance, severity and length of treatment and location. The cost is comparable to braces and can range from $3,500 to $8,000, with the average at $5,000. If you have orthodontic insurance, it will cover a portion of the cost.

More than one million people have used Invisalign. Invisalign can be used once a person loses all their baby teeth and have second molars, so this includes most teenagers. Invisalign works best for those with mild cases and those with crooked teeth, but a good bite. Invisalign is popular with those who are self-conscious about their smile, which usually includes teenagers and young adults.

“You are what you eat.”

If you cringe every time you hear and picture this statement, chances are you might want to make some changes to what you eat. Because really, nobody wants to be a greasy cheeseburger. Not only are your food choices affecting your weight and physical health, they’re also directly impacting the health of your teeth. The good news is that food can be just as helpful as it is harmful, so keeping a few key super foods in mind when considering your oral health can make all the difference.

Foods That Your Teeth Will Thank You For Eating:

And of course, you can never have too much water.

Drinking more water is the easiest way to help save your teeth from bacteria, especially during a busy day. Chase that sugary drink or food item down with some water to keep it from coating your teeth. Plus, drinking water encourages the production of saliva, which is your body’s natural and best defense against bacteria and plaque.

Healthy gums do NOT bleed.

If yours are bleeding, it’s a sign that there’s something wrong– so don’t ignore it. What might look like a minor issue can lead to more severe problems such as a receding gum line and loss of teeth. The first step? Find the source of the bleeding, so then you can move forward in finding solutions to the problem.

Why are my gums bleeding?

It’s estimated that about 45% of the world have chronic bad breath.

And chances are, you’ve noticed the people who do. Or maybe you’re one of them. The bottom line: nobody likes bad breath. What seems like a simple, small problem can actually seriously affect your life, especially in the area of relationships. Dating someone with bad breath? No thanks. Working in close quarters with a coworker who has bad breath? Get me out of there. Hopefully you’re not that person, but if you are, here are some remedies just for you.

Save your breath, save face. Try these remedies:

Bad breath is embarrassing.

I’ve been seeing more and more Invisalign teen ads. Even on prime time TV last night. Are they going to be the new medifast of tv ads?

Ha!

No really, the ads were super cheesy, and I really don’t know how cost effective that type of advertising would be with teens. Why not sponsor some social network? Or try some other type of advertising online where teens actually hang out. I don’t think there were that many teens watching “community” last night, the show about community college.

In any case, it’s nice to see Invisalign getting the word out though!

With Invisalign, there are no metal brackets pulling on your teeth to get them to straighten. So a big question people have is, how do these removable, clear aligners straighten my teeth? Invisalign braces move your teeth through controlled force. Instead of pulling your teeth to their target position like traditional braces, Invisalign pushes and guides your teeth to its location. Think of it as constant pressure that fixes your malocclusion (crooked teeth). Pressure that you will learn is not drastic or all at once. Invisalign successfully pushes your teeth gradually.

Invisalign pushes your teeth

Invisalign uses this pressure in small doses. That is why patients receive multiple trays, sometimes 30, to get the job done. The reason for this gradual movement is tooth placement. Invisalign’s 3D imaging technology plans out the movement and figures out how many aligners will be needed to get the job done. These trays look somewhat like bleaching trays, but are powerful in their abilities. The aligners usually move teeth about 0.2 mm. It probably seems like this process would take forever. However Invisalign is known for being much faster than traditional braces with most treatment times lasting less than a year.

How Invisalign is made

The computer system called ClinCheck visualizes the movement and figures out how many aligners you need to achieve that goal. Then a series of molds are created. These molds are used to create a series of trays, or aligners. Once the trays (aligners) are cut and trimmed, then polished, all the aligners are sent to the  invisalign dentist/orthodontist at once.

The dentist will usually give the patient 3 aligners at a time and they are worn in 2 week intervals. This means the patient will visit the dentist/orthodontist about every 6 weeks, so that they can check your progress, fix any positions and hand you the next 3 Invisible trays.

Invisalign aligners don’t always work

The system allows for great precision. However the aligners don’t always work. Your teeth and bone are an interesting bunch. Sometimes they do not move the way Invisalign’s CAM system says they will, so as Dr, Timmerman says, Invisalign is not a “magic pill” that works for everyone. It is a process and product that is worth talking to your dentist about. It is definitely the best alternative to straighten your teeth, but the alternative is not for everyone. It is a good idea to hear from patients who can share their Invisalign experience and ultimately decide with your dentist.

When asked for advice on how to find a dentist, your first reaction is probably, Google “dentists” or pick up the Yellow pages and look up “orthodontist”. The truth is there should be a lot more thought into finding an Invisalign provider, and many things you should look for when choosing an Invisalign dentist for the first time. It is not just about price! These guidelines will help you decide what you’re looking for in a dentist/orthodontist, and how to find a dentist who is experienced and thorough when it comes to Invisalign cases and treatment.

Interview the Dentist

The dentist or orthodontist offering Invisalign is working for you to straighten your teeth. Interview them, to make sure they are experienced, precise, and caring. This is so much more important than saving $500 on treatment or going with another provider. A well trained dentist in Invisalign could mean the difference of 6 months in treatment time, or considerable help when you experience pain. The best way to interview the dentist is to go in for a free consultation. You can ask them questions about the number of Invisalign cases, experience etc…

Initial Observations

It may seem silly, but initial observation as you enter a dentist’s office is important. Is the staff pleasant and do they show you that they care? Is the office clean and comforting? An office with pleasant surroundings and staff gives you an impression of how the office views itself and its customers. It has little to do with the dentist’s quality of work and Invisalign, but should be important when making your decision on the Invisalign Treatment. After all, you will need to visit the office many times before your treatment is complete.

Availability

Sometimes cosmetic dental offices and orthodontists are only open 3 days a week. Sometimes it is impossible to get a hold of them over the phone or via email. Make sure your dentist is accessible when you need him, or that there is someone who can answer your questions and give you feedback. It is important during the Invisalign treatment to have immediate help when questions arise or when emergencies occur. Talk to your dentist during the consultation to make sure he will be ready when you need him.

Your Dental Health

Your dental health is very important. Making sure you have a competent dentist is your responsibility. Maintaining your Invisalign Treatment, and keeping your teeth clean is also up to you, but having a dentist who is capable and caring makes Invisalign go that much smoother. There are dentists that build lasting relationships with their patients beyond the Invisalign treatment, in cleaning teeth, check-ups, etc… Finding one that fits your needs is so much more important than the price they charge for Invisalign. Don’t go into the office, asking what the dentist charges, or focusing solely on Invisalign cost. Focus on these guidelines and be a lot happier during your Invisalign treatment.

If you want to straighten your teeth without the traditional metallic smile than Invisalign braces may be for you. Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that straightens your teeth with a series of aligners or plastic molds. Wear each aligner until the progression is finished and your teeth are straighter. Invisalign braces are great because they are hardly noticeable when you wear them and they are removable. Invisalign isn’t for everyone, but there are significant benefits to straightening your teeth with invisible braces.

How Invisalign braces work

After deciding on Invisalign with your Orthodontist, they will use Invisalign’s computer imaging system (ClinCheck) to create a series of molds, after taking bite impressions of your mouth. The first mold will fit your teeth’s current configuration. The next molds will successively straighten your teeth through gradual pressure. Each aligner (mold) has target alignments. Once you have hit them, you move onto the next aligner until you have reached your final goal. The severity of your teeth determines the amount of aligners needed to get the job done. The average is around 20 -30 trays (aligners) with each tray worn for around 2 weeks. Each aligner is removable which makes it easy to eat, brush your teeth etc with your Invisalign braces. But your aligners need to be worn at least 20 hours a day for the treatment to go smoothly. There is nothing worse than having to go backwards in treatment and put back in an old aligner. The entire treatment takes about the same time as traditional braces, but it depends on each individual’s case and how far your teeth need to go to get to their desired position.

Benefits of Invisalign braces

Obviously the greatest benefit of Invisalign is that you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing about it. Many adults would rather have crooked teeth, then get traditional braces because it is unappealing and visible. Invisalign is an aesthetic that is very beneficial for adults who want to straighten their teeth and needed in the adult orthodontic community.

Invisalign braces also has better hygiene than traditional braces. There is a lesser chance of cavities and plaque because patients can brush and floss like they normally would due to the removable retainers. Your mouth is able to stay cleaner and healthier, where as with traditional braces, there is more decay and staining involved. With Invisalign braces you can eat whatever you want. Soda and sticky candy is not restricted, so go ahead and indulge.

There are little problems and questions with Invisalign. Patients find that when they switch to a new aligner or remove their aligners frequently that there is some discomfort and their teeth become sensitive from the movement. These problems are minor and most people feel the benefits far out weigh the issues they encounter with Invisalign.

Invisalign Braces cost

The Invisalign treatment costs are similar to traditional braces. In some places Invisalign may cost more than traditional braces, but it primarily depends on two factors. The extent and length of the patients treatment (i.e. how bad are your teeth?) and how many aligners it is going to take to get the job done. Invisalign Express for example is more affordable, because it is for minor spacing issues and needs very few aligners to get the job done. The location of dentists also affects the cost of Invisalign. Each city is different, so it may be smart to drive two hours away to get a better deal. It may not be a bad thing to pay more for an experienced provider though. Be sure to inquire about the price before deciding on an orthodontist/dentist.

Most Insurance will cover all or partial treatment costs of Invisalign. For the most part, Insurance providers will treat Invisalign similar to traditional braces as a means of orthodontic treatment. It is wise to contact your insurance company to see what they can do. Many dentists also offer financing for Invisalign and can compact your cost into easy monthly installments.

I want invisalign braces

Contact your dentist or find a provider near you. You can setup a free consultation with a dentist today right here at AntiBraces. Consultations are free and it is always a good idea to get the opinion of an orthodontist before deciding on Invisalign braces. Good Luck with your smile!

It may not be apparent what to look for when searching for an Invisalign dentist/orthodontist. You want a dentist who is going to be precise, reputable, and affordable. Unfortunately they aren’t a dime a dozen. There are some steps you can take to find a well-respected Invisalign provider who will help you along the way.

Trained in Invisalign

Special training is required for all dentists to be able to provide Invisalign. This does not mean that once a dentist is trained they are now masters of the Invisalign treatment. All Invisalign-trained dentists are not created equal. Many dentists take the training, but fail to be progressive in using it, and will only treat very minor malocclusions. On the other hand, there are some that respond to the needs of patients and will do what they can to get you Invisalign braces.

Where to look for an Invisalign Dentist

You know what you need going into the consultation and the questions to ask, but it can be tough to start looking. There are some great places to look. The first is Invisalign’s website (Invisalign.com). Their zip code search will direct you to a close dentist and provide you with information about them, including how many Invisalign treatments they do. Another great place is right here. We have dentists that offer free consultations for Invisalign patients and can help to answer any of your questions. Searching for Invisalign reviews in your area is also a great tool for finding a reputable dentist/orthodontist in your city.

Invisalign Provider Time and Cost

The most important part about looking for an Invisalign dentist is affordability and convenience. In the long run it is better to pay more for a dentist that is well respected and experienced than to find the cheapest dentist around because you may end up paying for it, in hassles and headaches.

Like we stated earlier, no Invisalign dentist is created equal. This goes for price as well. Depending on the city you live in, the location of the dentist, and their diagnosis of your teeth, will depend on how much you pay for Invisalign. If you like the Invisalign provider and they have assured you they can get the job done; don’t shop around until your blue, stick with that dentist/orthodontist. Insurance should cover some or all of the treatment, and dentists have great financing options for Invisalign.

But you shouldn’t have too much work when it comes to finding a reputable Invisalign dentist, because we have done most of the work for you. Just put in your city and request a free consultation. We find your dentist and they call you. It’s like match.com, only connecting you with an Invisalign Provider!

Everyone by now has heard of Invisalign, growing rapidly since its inception 11 years ago. Invisalign is revolutionary because instead of the “metal bracket” traditional braces, Invisalign is invisible while still straightening your teeth. Invisible braces have become somewhat of a phenomenon in America, except among early teens, a huge market for traditional braces. Originally you couldn’t get Invisalign unless you were at least 16 (most of the time older) because of baby teeth issues etc…Now Invisalign Teen can treat teens as young as 13 years old with some new added benefits for those who are in their growing years.

Invisalign Teen Benefits

Invisalign Teen is slightly different from original Invisalign with some fun modifications. Most of the new features are aimed at growing teens and their growing mouths. The most interesting new addition comes in the form of a blue dot on the aligners. This is a compliance indicator to keep teens wearing their aligners. The blue dot disappears only when you wear it. If you take it out a lot, that blue dot lets parents know you haven’t been wearing it. Invisalign Dentists and Orthodontists will tell you that not wearing your Invisalign aligners might be the most important mistake young adults make during treatment. Some would even say the only time Invisalign does not work is when aligners aren’t worn. The new blue dot will provide a great monitor for parents and a reason for teens to keep the aligners in.

Replacement Aligners

Another highlight of Invisalign Teen is replacement aligners. I know when I was a teen I lost my retainer a lot. So I can attest to the need for replacement aligners. Align Technology gives the teen 6 replacement aligners as part of the Invisalign Teen treatment. Don’t carelessly wear and lose your aligners, but this will keep parents more rest assured that the Orthodontist does not have to be called the 2^nd time the aligner has gone missing.

Functionality

What was not possible with Invisalign Original is now possible with Invisalign Teen. The modified aligners are engineered to address natural eruption of molars and root growth, Still invisible, but made a little bit different than the traditional Invisalign treatment to accommodate, the growing, wild teen.

Invisalign Teen Price

The price of Invisalign teen is yet to be determined as they are still in their pilot program. Look back for more info on the cost of Invisalign Teen in future posts or contact one of our dentists in your area. It is a great time at the creation of Invisalign Teen to get something better for your teen or yourself than metal mouth tin cans. Visit a dentist and look for Invisalign Teen to launch at the end of this month.