Invisalign Aligners: Complete Guide to Treatments, Prices, and Finding a Dentist Near You

Invisalign has revolutionized orthodontics by offering a nearly invisible solution to straighten your teeth without metal brackets and wires.

Instead, Invisalign aligners use custom, clear plastic trays that apply gentle pressure to shift your teeth into the correct position over time.

This modern approach works similarly to traditional braces but without the discomfort and aesthetic issues. Plus, the removable aligners give you freedom, you can easily remove them to eat or clean your teeth.

But how does Invisalign work for more complex cases like crowded teeth or crossbites? Read on to learn more about treatment options, costs, and tips for finding the best dentist near you.

Who Can Use Invisalign?

It is suitable for about 90% of patients, including adults and teens. Clear aligners can treat a wide range of cases, from minor gaps to more complex issues like crowded teeth, overbites, or even deep bites.

Invisalign for adults is a popular choice, as there’s no age limit for treatment, and many adults are achieving success with clear aligners—even those who have previously worn braces.

It can also be effective for younger patients, like teenagers, thanks to specialized treatments like Invisalign Teen.

Types of Invisalign Treatments

Invisalign offers different treatments tailored to individual needs. Understanding which option is best for you can depend on the severity of your dental alignment and your desired outcome.

  • Invisalign Comprehensive: Formerly known as Invisalign Full, this is the most advanced version designed for adults with severe malocclusion. Treatments typically last between 12 to 18 months, but they can extend up to 24 months for more complex cases.
  • Invisalign Lite: Ideal for moderate issues, it usually lasts around 6 to 12 months. This option comes with fewer aligners and is quicker compared to comprehensive treatments.
  • Invisalign Express: A great option for mild issues, it can fix slight spacing or alignment issues within 6 months. If you’ve had braces before and need minor adjustments, this treatment is perfect for you.
  • Invisalign i7: A shorter version, it is designed for cosmetic touch-ups, often for patients who have already undergone orthodontic treatment. It can take as little as 3 months to correct minor problems like small gaps or slight crowding.
  • Invisalign Teen: This version is customized for teenagers, with extra features such as compliance indicators and additional aligners in case they are lost.
  • Invisalign First: For children aged 6-11, Invisalign First aims to prevent future orthodontic problems by guiding jaw development and allowing permanent teeth to erupt in the correct position.

How Much Does Invisalign Cost?

The cost of each treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case and your location. On average:

  • Comprehensive can range between $5,000 and $8,000.
  • Lite costs between $3,500 and $5,000.
  • Express typically ranges from $2,500 to $4,000.
  • i7 costs around $1,500 to $3,000.
  • Teen costs approximately $3,000 to $8,000, depending on treatment length and severity.

Invisalign Treatment Process: What to Expect

It begins with a consultation with your orthodontist, who will assess your dental alignment and discuss your goals.

After deciding on the right plan, your orthodontist will use the Invisalign ClinCheck software and iTero scanner to map out your treatment in 3D.

This technology allows for highly accurate planning, and you can even see the projected results before you begin.

After the aligners are made, you’ll receive a set to wear for 20-22 hours per day. Each set is worn for about 1-2 weeks before moving on to the next in the series, gently guiding your teeth to the correct position.

Invisalign Refinement Phase: Fine-Tuning Your Smile

The Invisalign refinement phase is a crucial part of the treatment for patients who need additional adjustments after their initial course of aligners.

During this phase, your orthodontist will evaluate the final positioning of your teeth and determine if further corrections are needed to achieve the desired result.

If so, additional aligners are created to refine and perfect the alignment of your teeth.

Refinement is common, especially in more complex cases, and is often included in the cost of comprehensive treatments.

Depending on your specific treatment plan, refinements can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.

This step ensures that you end up with the best possible result, giving you the smile you envisioned.

How to Clean Your Aligners

Keeping your Invisalign aligners clean is crucial for maintaining oral hygiene and keeping the trays clear. Rinse them with water at room temperature and brush them gently with a soft-bristle brush.

Avoid using toothpaste or harsh chemicals, as they can scratch the surface of the aligners. If you’re looking for a deeper clean, you can use special cleaning crystals that remove plaque buildup without damaging the aligners.

Finding the Best Invisalign Dentist Near You

You can easily locate an experienced Invisalign dentist through Invisalign’s online dentist locator tool.

Dentists are classified into categories (silver, gold, platinum, elite, and diamond) based on the number of treatments they have successfully completed.

If you’re wondering, “Where can I find the best Invisalign dentist near me?” aim for a provider with a diamond or elite ranking to ensure top-quality care and experience.

Retainers After Invisalign

After completing your treatment, you will need to wear retainers to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their previous positions.

Invisalign offers Vivera retainers that are just as aesthetic and comfortable as their aligners, so you won’t have to compromise on appearance.

Invisalign Global Gallery: Seeing is Believing

For those who are curious about real-world results, the Invisalign Global Gallery showcases patient transformations from all over the world.

This tool can give you a better idea of what to expect from your treatment and help you visualize your own potential results.

FAQs About Clear Aligners

How does Invisalign work for teenagers?

The version for Teens includes features specifically for younger patients, such as compliance indicators that help parents and orthodontists ensure the aligners are being worn enough, and additional aligners in case they are lost.

Can I drink coffee with Invisalign?

It’s not recommended to drink coffee while wearing aligners, as it can stain the trays. Always remove your aligners before consuming dark beverages like coffee or tea.

What is the best way to clean Invisalign aligners?

The best method is to brush them with water and a soft-bristle brush. For a deeper clean, cleaning crystals can help keep them fresh and clear.

Can Invisalign fix a crossbite?

Yes, it can treat crossbites, though the treatment time may vary depending on the severity of the case. Your orthodontist will assess your specific needs during the consultation.

How often should I change my aligners?

Typically, aligners are changed every 1-2 weeks, but your orthodontist will provide the exact schedule tailored to your treatment plan.

What’s the cost of Invisalign refinements?

In many cases, refinements are included in the initial treatment cost. However, if additional refinement is needed later on, it could result in extra charges depending on your provider.

Can I use Invisalign with missing teeth?

Yes, it can preserve space for missing teeth, which allows for the placement of implants or other prosthetic solutions once the treatment is complete.

How does Invisalign compare to SmileDirectClub for adults?

While SmileDirectClub offers an at-home treatment option, Invisalign provides personalized care with more precise results, particularly for complex alignment issues.

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