Invisalign
Straighten on your terms
Many adults are interested in straightening their teeth. You may never have had braces as a child, or have experienced your teeth returning to their original positions post-braces, or have noticed your teeth shifting during adulthood. But the metal wires and brackets just aren’t feasible for many adults. Invisalign offers a subtle but effective solution. With clear, removable aligners, you can straighten without self-consciousness.
What to Expect from Invisalign
Ideal Invisalign Cases
Invisalign isn’t ideal for every patient, but is appropriate for mildly to moderately crooked teeth. You may be able to receive Invisalign if you would like to address any of the following:
- Mild crowding, with teeth slightly overlapping
- Small gaps between your teeth
- A minor overbite or underbite, where your jaws don’t quite fit together
If you have complex issues with your bite, have severe crowding or large spaces between teeth, or need significant jaw movement, you may need traditional braces. Schedule a consultation to learn more about whether Invisalign will work for your needs.
What to Expect From the Invisalign Process
- Consultation – At your initial consult, Dr. Patel will examine your teeth, take x-rays, and learn more about what you’d like to achieve. She will confirm that Invisalign will work for you and take scans of your mouth to have your aligners made.
- Receive your aligners – Dr. Patel will provide your first set of aligners, check that they fit properly and are comfortable, and give you care and cleaning instructions.
- Appointments – You will have regular check-ins with Dr. Patel to receive new sets of aligners and also monitor your progress. You will need to wear your aligners at least 22 hours a day to progress on schedule.
- Post-treatment – Once your straightening is complete, you’ll wear a retainer as instructed to maintain your new smile.
Caring for Your Teeth During Invisalign
During Invisalign, your oral hygiene becomes more important than ever. Because your trays fit snugly against your teeth, they trap leftover food particles in place. Brushing and flossing before replacing your trays will keep your teeth clean and cavity-free.
Wondering whether you're an Invisalign candidate?
Schedule your consultation to take the first step. Dr. Patel will be able to tell you whether it’s the right treatment option after an evaluation and exam.