Invisalign FAQs:
Q. How does Invisalign work?
A. Over the course of treatment, you will be supplied with a series of aligners. Each aligner will make slight adjustments to tooth position. When the aligners are placed on the teeth, they cause the teeth to gradually shift from their current position. After approximately two weeks, you will begin using the next set of aligners, which will continue the teeth straightening process. At each visit, we’ll give you several sets of trays to last you the next few weeks. Dr. B will see you every six to eight weeks and continue the process!
Q. How much does Invisalign cost?
A. Invisalign treatment is comparable to the cost of traditional braces. However, as with other medical treatments, only your Invisalign-trained orthodontist can determine the cost, based on your specific needs. Other factors may include your treatment goals, the difficulty of your case, and how long you are in treatment. At Dr. B Smiles, we offer several flexible payment plans to help make Invisalign affordable for you!
Q. Will my insurance cover Invisalign?
A. Because dental benefits differ significantly from policy to policy, you should review your dental plan (the Dr. B Smiles Team can help you!). However, in general, if a patient has orthodontic coverage, Invisalign should be covered to the same extent as conventional braces.
Q. Are payment options are available for Invisalign?
A. Absolutely! At your initial consultation with Dr. B, our treatment coordinator will review the Invisalign cost with you and customize a payment plan for your Invisalign treatment. We offer low down-payment options as well as zero interest payment plans.
Q. How often should I wear my aligners each day?
A. In order for Invisalign to work most effectively, you should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day. You may remove them for eating, drinking and regular oral hygiene.
Q. Are there any restrictions to what I can eat while in treatment?
A. No! Unlike braces, you have no food restrictions! You may eat whatever you like as long as you remove your aligners before eating. Prior to placing your aligners back on, it is important to brush your teeth and the aligners.
Q. Will wearing the aligners affect my speech?
A. Like any orthodontic treatment, there is a short adjustment period. The more you speak with the aligners on, the quicker you will adjust!
Q. Is there any discomfort with Invisalign® treatment?
A. There will be some pressure and minor discomfort for a day or two after each initial insertion. This is a sign that your teeth are moving and you’re getting closer to your final result!
Q. Can I chew gum?
A. Yes! You can chew gum however it is recommended that you remove your aligners prior to chewing gum as the gum will stick to the aligners.
Q. How do I keep my aligners clean?
A. Brushing them with toothpaste will keep them fresh and clean.
Q. How often do I see Dr. Bonavoglia while wearing Invisalign®?
A. Regular office visits with Dr. B are on average every 8 weeks. This will ensure that your Invisalign treatment is progressing as planned.
Q. What happens after my treatment is complete? Do I need retainers?
A. Once your treatment is complete, Dr. B will make you retainers. He will review the retainer protocol with you and we will see you for periodic follow up visits to make sure your teeth still look great! Just like braces, retainer wear is a life-long commitment to ensure your teeth continue to look straight and beautiful.
Q. How long does Invisalign treatment take?
A. Treatment time varies depending on the severity of your case. On average, most of our Invisalign cases last 6 to 18 months.
Q. Does Invisalign work for kids?
A. Yes, Invisalign offers Invisalign Teen, which is designed for adolescent treatment.