Invisalign Clear Aligners – Watertown, MA
The Discreet Way to Straighten Teeth
Everyone knows about the usual method of teeth straightening — metal braces, composed of brackets and wires. But these days, many patients are eligible for a different treatment. With a technology called Invisalign® clear aligners in Watertown, MA, which uses a series of specially made clear aligners, we can help patients achieve healthier smiles without a mouth full of metal. Contact us today to book a consultation so you can learn more about this discreet way to straighten teeth.
Why Choose All Dental Center for Invisalign?
- Highly Trained Dental Team
- Discreet Teeth Straightening
- Convenient Appointment Times
How Invisalign Works
During one of your first Invisalign appointments, we will take impressions of your teeth that will be used as the basis for designing your series of custom-made clear aligners. When you start wearing Invisalign, you should try to keep it in your mouth for 20 – 22 hours each day. After all, the aligners only work when you are using them! Every two weeks, you need to switch to new aligners, so little by little they can move your teeth into the needed positions.
The average total treatment time with Invisalign is just 12 – 18 months, though some cases require more or less time.
Indications for Invisalign
Invisalign can correct many cases of dental misalignment. Here are a few specific examples of issues that it is often used to address:
Crowded Teeth
Crowded, overlapping teeth can easily trap food between them and increase your risk of dental decay. Invisalign is often able to shift the teeth in a way that gives each one the space it needs to function at its best.
Gaps Between Teeth
Gaps between the teeth can leave your gums vulnerable to harm and adversely affect your facial aesthetics. Invisalign is usually able to move the teeth closer together.
Bite Alignment
Overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite are all common types of malocclusions (problems with the way the upper and lower teeth work together). With the help of special accessories, Invisalign can often correct such issues.
The Benefits of Invisalign
Some noteworthy benefits of Invisalign include:
- On average, the treatment takes just 12 – 18 months, which is significantly shorter than the average treatment time with traditional braces.
- Because the aligners are removable, Invisalign treatment does not come with any dietary restrictions.
- The removability of the aligners allows for easy oral hygiene.
- Invisalign checkups usually take just a few minutes.
- The smooth plastic aligners are designed to rest as comfortably as possible on the oral tissues.
- The discreet appearance of Invisalign aligners can allow you to smile with confidence and maintain a professional image.
How Much Does Invisalign Cost?
The cost of Invisalign can vary greatly between patients. It depends on the extent of the misalignment that needs to be corrected and other factors. Most people end up paying at least a few thousand dollars. Generally speaking, Invisalign’s price is in the same ballpark as that of other orthodontic treatments.
During your complimentary consultation, our team can discuss some specific numbers with you and help you understand your payment options. We accept many insurance plans, and financing is available for most patients. We even have a special offer that allows you to get started with treatment for just $999!
Invisalign FAQs
How Long Does Invisalign Take?
The average Invisalign treatment time is 12 months. However, the length of time that will be required for your treatment could be more or less than that. Some patients with relatively minor misalignment take less than one year to achieve their desired results. If your case is more complex, you might need to wear your aligners for up to 18 months or longer. During your consultation, we may be able to provide an estimate of your treatment timeline.
Generally speaking, Invisalign is significantly faster than traditional metal braces.
Does Invisalign Hurt?
Invisalign aligners are made of smooth plastic that is designed to rest comfortably against the soft tissues in the mouth. You will not have to worry about the irritation that can occur with old-fashioned metal brackets and wires.
However, there may still be some discomfort throughout your treatment. Remember, Invisalign is supposed to apply pressure to your teeth, which can cause soreness, especially when you first start wearing an aligner. Our team will give you tips to minimize your discomfort. For example, we may advise you to switch to a new aligner at night, drink cold water, and take over-the-counter pain relievers.
What Happens After Invisalign?
Once you have finished using all the aligners in your series, our team will provide you with a retainer. A retainer is a custom oral appliance that is designed to prevent your teeth from drifting back into their former positions. Without it, all of your hard work with Invisalign could be undone!
At first, you may need to wear your retainer full-time (20 – 22 hours a day). Eventually, you may be able to use it only at night. After some time, you could reach the point where it is only necessary for you to use your retainer a few nights each week.
What if My Invisalign Broke?
If an aligner only has small hairline fractures, you may be able to continue using it. Just be careful when you are taking it in and out of your mouth. If the damage is more severe, do not try to repair the aligner. Instead, give us a call.
We might advise you to go back to wearing a previous aligner until we order a replacement for the one that is no longer usable. Alternatively, we might tell you that it is okay to move onto your next aligner a few days earlier than planned. (Do not advance to the next aligner without explicit guidance from us. We do not want you to experience pain or damage your teeth!)