Invisalign Clear Aligners – Fountain Valley, CA
Straighten Your Smile without Brackets and Wires
Many adults would like to straighten their teeth, but they hesitate to book an orthodontic appointment because they do not want to get braces. After all, the idea of having a bunch of metal in your mouth is far from appealing! Fortunately, you may be a candidate for a more discreet alternative. Invisalign can straighten your smile without brackets and wires. Its clear aligners are subtle, comfortable, and effective! Contact our Fountain Valley office today to learn more about it.
Why Choose Elite Dental for Invisalign?
- No Unsightly Brackets and Wires
- Comfortable & Efficient Treatment
- Caring & Kind Dental Team
How Invisalign Works
Instead of using metal brackets and wires to straighten the teeth, Invisalign employs a series of clear, custom-made plastic aligners (sometimes referred to as trays). You wear each aligner for about two weeks, for around 22 hours each day, before you progress to the next in your series. The aligners will apply gentle pressure to the teeth in order to gradually move them into their proper positions.
Throughout your treatment period, you will have occasional checkups with our team so we can monitor your progress. On average, the total treatment time with Invisalign is just 12 months!
Indications for Invisalign
Invisalign can address most cases of mild to moderate dental misalignment. Here are a few examples of issues that it is commonly used to correct:
Crowded Teeth
Crowded teeth can be unsightly, and they can trap food between them. Invisalign, sometimes with the help of extractions, can shift your teeth so each one has the space it needs to function optimally.
Gaps Between Teeth
Large gaps between the teeth can leave your gums vulnerable to harm, and you may be self-conscious about their appearance. Invisalign is often able to guide the teeth closer together.
Bite Alignment
An overbite, underbite, cross bite, or open bite can adversely affect the way your mouth looks and functions. Invisalign, often along with special attachments, can often correct bite problems.
The Benefits of Invisalign
Some outstanding benefits of Invisalign include:
- The average treatment time is just 12 months . That is much shorter than the average treatment time with traditional braces!
- The aligners are removable . Therefore, you can eat all of your favorite foods and enjoy hassle-free oral hygiene.
- Quick appointments . Invisalign check-in appointments usually take just a few minutes. Plus, there are fewer appointments than with traditional braces.
- Comfort . The smooth plastic of the Invisalign trays is designed to fit comfortably against the teeth and gums.
- A subtle appearance . The aligners are not totally invisible, but they are unlikely to be the first thing that other people notice about your smile.
How Much Does Invisalign Cost?
The cost of Invisalign varies from case to case. It depends on the severity of your case and other factors. During your consultation, we will be able to talk about some specific numbers. We will also help you to understand your payment options. Some dental insurance plans cover clear aligners, so you might be able to use your benefits to reduce your out-of-pocket costs. You might also be able to apply for low-interest financing from a third-party. With the aid of available provisions, most patients are able to fit it into their budget without too much stress!
Invisalign FAQs
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions with Invisalign?
Technically, no. However, there are certain foods we recommend avoiding to reduce the chances of tooth decay developing or an attachment from breaking. Gummy candies are a great example because their sticky consistency can cling to your teeth, making them difficult to clean. Not only that, but they can tug an attachment out of position, which can lead to treatment plan delays. Ultimately, it’s best to eat softer, more nutrient-dense foods during your teeth-straightening journey, like bananas, oatmeal, and plain yogurt.
What Should I Do If I Lost an Invisalign Aligner?
Having clear aligners is a huge advantage… until you’ve misplaced them. If you find yourself in this situation, we recommend re-tracing your steps. In the process, make sure to look in not-so-obvious places, like the pockets of the pants you were wearing earlier. If you don’t have any luck, then call our Fountain Valley dental team. If you’re only a day or two from moving onto the next set in the series, we may ask you to do that. Otherwise, we will ask you to wear your previous set while we have replacements made.
Does Invisalign Hurt?
Since Invisalign uses clear, custom-made aligners instead of metal brackets and wires, the teeth-straightening process is considerably more comfortable. That said, it is normal to feel some soreness and pressure, especially when you first get your trays. To help combat these sensations, use cold compresses, stick to soft foods, and, if needed, take OTC pain medication. If you can, switch to each new set of aligners right before bed too. That way, you can sleep while your teeth are adjusting the most.
How Long Do I Need to Wear My Aligners Each Day?
The general rule-of-thumb is 20-22 hours a day. Since that only leaves you with a few hours of aligner-free time each day, it’s important to be mindful of how you use them. We recommend finding a schedule that works for you, like 30 minutes for breakfast, 40 minutes for lunch, 10 minutes for a snack, 50 minutes for dinner, and 10 minutes for dental care throughout the day. Of course, some days will be easier than others, but as long as you are hitting the mark the majority of the time, you should stay on-track with your treatment plan.
Can I Drink Coffee with Invisalign?
Yes, as long as you remove your aligners first, you can drink coffee throughout your Invisalign treatment. When it comes time to enjoy this caffeinated beverage, remove your trays, rinse them with clean, cool water, and place them in their designated case. When you’re done, brush your teeth, clean your trays, and put them back on.
Tip: Drink your coffee with your breakfast instead of separately! This will make wearing your aligners for 20-22 hours a day significantly easier.