Crooked teeth often leave people feeling self-conscious and trying to hide their smiles. In the past, metal braces offered the only available option for straightening your teeth, but today, you have multiple options to achieve a more functional and beautiful smile. One of the most recognized, modern solutions for straighter teeth is Invisalign, but is it for everyone? We’ve put together a closer review of the company, how Invisalign works, the cost, and more to help you determine if it’s time to set up an appointment.

Company Overview

One of the most well-known names in the market, Invisalign was first established back in 1997. The company revolutionized orthodontics with their “invisible braces” and the digital-led system – the first of its kind. Although other companies have entered the market since then, the company continues to offer innovative and cutting-edge options, continuing to create new technology in the field of orthodontics.

Currently, the company has close to 100,000 Invisalign-trained orthodontists in dentists throughout 90 countries in the world. To-date, over 6 million individuals have used Invisalign to straighten their teeth for a more beautiful smile.

How Invisalign Works

To get started with Invisalign, you’ll start by seeing your dentist or orthodontist who will be involved throughout your teeth straightening process, ensuring that your treatment is doctor-approved, every step of the way. A 3D digital scan is taken of your teeth and used to create a custom treatment plan. From that plan, clear aligners are created. Instead of using wires to pull or push your teeth into position as traditional braces do, Invisalign straightens teeth with a series of clear plastic aligners. The Invisalign 3D technology allows the dentist or orthodontist to create a step-by-step treatment plan tailored to your needs, and every couple of weeks you’ll receive a new set of aligners to continue the movement of teeth until you get the straight, beautiful smile you want.

Today, Invisalign works for most moderate and minor orthodontic issues that traditional metal braces can correct, helping to correct problems like turned teeth, gaps, crowding, and more. However, the aligners don’t work for severe orthodontic problems that are solved by applications like headgear, expanders, or spacers.

Because Invisalign uses 3D technology, you will need to visit the office to have the 3D digital scan done. While it’s possible to get started with the Invisalign Smile Assessment questionnaire to determine if Invisalign treatment may be a viable option for you, it doesn’t replace your need to have a consultation with a trained Invisalign provider.

The Invisalign aligners are clear, which means most people won’t even know you’re wearing them. Once you get your first set of aligners, expect to feel a bit of soreness for a couple days as you get used to wearing them and adjust to the pressure on your teeth. The aligners must be worn for 22 hours a day to get the results you want. But one of the benefits of Invisalign is that you’re able to take the trays out for eating, to brush your teeth, or for a photo session.

Everyone couple weeks you’ll be switching out aligners to continue moving your teeth. Along with changing your aligners as specified by your orthodontist, you’ll need to schedule regular checkups every four to six weeks to ensure your teeth are moving according to plan. That support from a trained Invisalign professional may also ensure you get the personalized, quality results you want.

Why We Like Invisalign

Invisalign offers many benefits, which is why millions of people have already used this system to get the straighter teeth they want. A few of the pros of Invisalign include:

• #1 – Nearly Invisible – The clear plastic trays can barely be seen and don’t leave you with the dreaded “metal mouth.”
• #2 – Removable – You can’t remove metal braces, but you can take out your Invisalign aligners to eat, brush, and for special occasions, giving you extra flexibility and improved oral hygiene.
• #3 – Comfort – With no wires or brackets, most people find Invisalign clear trays far more comfortable than metal braces.

What’s the Cost of Invisalign?

Generally, Invisalign costs between $3,500 and $8,000 to complete treatment without insurance. The cost of Invisalign varies depending on many factors, including the specific problems the aligners need to address and the length of time needed for your treatment. With Invisalign, you’re getting a customized treatment plan based on your individual needs, overseen and approved by your orthodontist every step of the way. This distinguishes Invisalign from more hands-off, at home clear aligner companies that don’t require routine checkups with your orthodontist. Check with your dental insurance company to see if they may cover part of the cost, and many orthodontists offer financing options.

Setting Up Your Appointment

If you’ve taken the Invisalign Smile Assessment and you think this treatment may be right for you, the next step is to find an orthodontist or dentist. You can use the Invisalign website to find a doctor in your area who specializes in Invisalign, setting up your appointment immediately.