Invisalign Comprehensive, previously known as Invisalign Full, is the most advanced treatment in the Invisalign lineup, designed to address all types of malocclusion, including even the most complex cases.
Offering the same effectiveness as traditional braces, Invisalign Comprehensive stands out with its removable, nearly invisible aligners that provide both comfort and aesthetics throughout the treatment.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about clear aligners, from how it works to treatment duration, costs, benefits, and common questions.
How Does Invisalign Comprehensive Work?
Invisalign Comprehensive uses a series of custom-made clear aligners that gradually shift your teeth into the correct position.
Similar to traditional orthodontics, these aligners apply gentle pressure to guide the teeth’s movement, but without the need for metal brackets or wires.
The aligners are made from medical-grade transparent plastic, making them nearly invisible when worn, and they can be removed for eating and brushing.
This makes Invisalign Comprehensive more convenient and comfortable compared to braces.
Step-by-Step Process for Invisalign Comprehensive
- Initial Consultation: Your orthodontist will evaluate your oral health, ensuring that any existing dental issues, such as cavities or gum disease, are addressed before starting Invisalign.
- 3D Digital Scanning: Using advanced 3D scanning technology, your orthodontist will take detailed images of your teeth, which will serve as the blueprint for creating your aligners.
- ClinCheck Software: Invisalign’s proprietary software, ClinCheck, allows your orthodontist to precisely map out your treatment and show you how your teeth will look at the end of the process.
- Aligner Fabrication: Based on the 3D scans, custom aligners will be made and delivered to your orthodontist. You’ll switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks as your teeth gradually shift into place.
- Wearing Your Aligners: You’ll wear each set of aligners for approximately 14 days before moving to the next pair. Your orthodontist may give you several sets at once, reducing the need for frequent in-office visits.
- Follow-up Appointments: Although fewer than traditional braces, follow-up appointments are essential to track your progress and make any necessary adjustments.
Invisalign Comprehensive Refinement Phase
After the initial treatment phase, there may be a need for refinement to perfect the results. During this phase, your orthodontist will provide additional aligners at no extra cost, ensuring the best possible outcome.
This phase is crucial for addressing any minor adjustments and is included as part of the Invisalign Comprehensive treatment.
What Dental Issues Can Invisalign Comprehensive Treat?
Invisalign Comprehensive is suitable for a wide range of alignment problems, from moderate to severe cases. It can treat:
- Overbite: Where the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth.
- Underbite: When the lower teeth extend beyond the upper teeth.
- Crossbite: When some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting.
- Crowding: A lack of space for all the teeth to align properly.
- Diastema (gaps): Gaps or spaces between teeth.
Invisalign Comprehensive vs. Traditional Braces
Both Invisalign Comprehensive and traditional braces effectively address complex dental alignment issues. Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners, while traditional braces rely on fixed metal brackets and wires.
While traditional braces may still be the preferred option for certain severe cases, Invisalign Comprehensive is a suitable choice for most patients, offering comparable results.
Advantages of Invisalign Comprehensive
- Virtually Invisible: The clear aligners are hard to notice, offering a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to metal braces.
- Custom Treatment: With 3D scans and the ClinCheck system, each patient’s treatment plan is tailored to their specific needs, leading to more precise results.
- Faster Results: In many cases, treatment with Invisalign Comprehensive can be quicker than traditional braces.
- Comfort: The aligners are smooth, with no sharp metal pieces that can cause discomfort or irritation.
Disadvantages of Invisalign Comprehensive
- Initial Discomfort: Some patients experience mild discomfort when adjusting to new aligners, due to the pressure they apply on the teeth that might cause temporary sensitivity.
- Self-discipline Required: Patients must wear the aligners for 20-22 hours a day for effective treatment. Failing to do so can delay results.
- Cost: Invisalign Comprehensive is typically more expensive than traditional braces, ranging from $5,000 to $8,000.
Other Invisalign Treatment Options
Invisalign Comprehensive is just one option among many. Other treatments include:
- Invisalign Teen: Designed specifically for younger patients, it has features like compliance indicators to help ensure proper usage.
- Invisalign Express (Lite): Ideal for mild to moderate cases, offering shorter treatment times.
- Invisalign i7: A treatment designed to address minor cosmetic issues quickly.
- Invisalign First: Suitable for children ages 6-10, addressing early dental issues.
Frequently asked questions
1. How long does Invisalign Comprehensive treatment take?
On average, treatment takes between 12 and 18 months, though severe cases may last up to 24 months. The length of the treatment depends on the complexity of the dental alignment issues and patient compliance.
2. How many hours a day should I wear Invisalign aligners?
For optimal results, aligners should be worn for 20-22 hours per day. You should remove them only when eating, drinking, and cleaning your teeth.
3. Can Invisalign Comprehensive fix gaps between teeth?
Yes, it is highly effective at closing gaps (diastemas) between teeth, offering a solution for both cosmetic and functional dental concerns.
4. How much does Invisalign Comprehensive cost?
The cost of Invisalign Comprehensive typically ranges from $5,000 to $8,000, depending on the complexity of the case and the length of treatment.
5. Can Invisalign Comprehensive be used if I have dental implants?
Yes, patients with dental implants can still undergo Invisalign Comprehensive treatment. However, implants themselves will not move, so your orthodontist will account for them in the treatment plan.
6. Does Invisalign Comprehensive work faster than traditional braces?
In some cases, it can work faster than braces, but this depends on the complexity of the case and adherence to wearing the aligners.
7. What happens if I don’t wear my aligners for 20-22 hours a day?
Failing to wear the aligners as directed can delay treatment and potentially affect the final results. Wearing them consistently is key to achieving the best possible outcome.
8. Can I eat with my Invisalign aligners in?
No, it’s essential to remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. This prevents staining and ensures food particles don’t get trapped.
9. How do I clean my Invisalign aligners?
You can clean the aligners by brushing them with a soft toothbrush and rinsing them with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water, which could warp the plastic, and consider using specific Invisalign cleaning solutions.
10. Are there any dietary restrictions with Invisalign Comprehensive?
No, unlike traditional braces, there are no dietary restrictions with Invisalign. Since you remove the aligners to eat, you can enjoy all the foods you love, but it’s important to clean your teeth afterward.
11. How to know if your Invisalign aligners are original?
Currently, many companies are dedicated to creating Invisalign imitations for cheaper prices, however, these imitations are not effective or safe for patients.
The best way to know if your orthodontist is offering you original Invisalign aligners is to verify through the official website if the professional is registered as a provider, you can verify it through this link.