Invisalign
Get the beautiful smile you've always wanted.
Invisalign is the invisible way to straighten teeth using a series of custom-made,
nearly undetectable aligners. And it's been proven effective in both clinical
research and in practices nationwide. So whether your teeth are crowded, too
far apart or have shifted since wearing braces, you'll have a new reason to
smile.
The latest technology makes it possible
After an initial examination, Dr. Brown decides if Invisalign is right
for you. A customized treatment plan is created and impressions of
your teeth are taken, which are submitted to Invisalign. Using the latest advances
in 3-D computer technology, Invisalign carefully translates your doctor's instructions
into a series of precisely customized aligners. You then wear each set of aligners
for about two weeks, moving your teeth, gradually, until you've achieved the
intended result: straighter teeth. Generally, you visit your doctor no more than
you would with braces and the length of treatment is about the same.
No braces. Nothing to hold you back
Because there are no metal wires and brackets, Invisalign
is comfortable. And because it is removable, eating, brushing
and flossing is no problem. You can still enjoy your favorite
foods and smile without holding back. With Invisalign, there's
nothing to hide.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
How does Invisalign work?
Using the latest advances in 3-D computer technology,
Invisalign translates your doctor's instructions into a
series of nearly undetectable Aligners. You wear each set
of Aligners for two weeks, moving your teeth gradually
week by week, millimeter by millimeter you've achieved
the desired result.
How are Invisalign aligners made?
State of the art computer technology plays a vital role in the process. In fact,
Invisalign's customized manufacturing process is the first of its kind in the
world. The diagrams below show how Invisalign aligners are made.
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First we take impressions
of your teeth. |
We send Invisalign your
impressions which are analyzed by CAT
scan to create models of your teeth. |
Using advanced imaging
technology, Invisalign transforms your impressions
into a highly accurate 3-D digital image. |
ClinCheck - a computerized
treatment movie - is created depicting the movement
of your teeth from the beginning to their final position. |
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Using the Internet, we
review your ClinCheck file prior to fabrication.
If necessary, adjustments to the treatment plan can
be made. |
From your approved ClinCheck
file, Invisalign uses laser scanning to build a set
of actual models that reflect each stage of your
treatment plan. |
Your customized set of
aligners is made from these models. It is sent to
our office and we distribute them to you gradually.
You wear each aligner for about two weeks. |
After wearing all of
your aligners in the series, you get the beautiful
smile you've always wanted. |
Is Invisalign effective?
Thousands of doctors are treating patients with Invisalign. It works for a wide
range of patients whose teeth are too crowded or have spaces between them,
as well as for those whose teeth may have shifted after having worn braces
in their youth.
How often will I have to wear my Aligners?
Invisalign only works while you're wearing the Aligners. You wear your
Aligners full-time, day and night, except to eat, brush and floss your teeth
- or as directed by your doctor.
How long does Invisalign take?
The duration of treatment depends on the severity
of your case, which determines the number of Aligners need
to achieve the desired result. The average case is
about 12 months.
How much does Invisalign cost?
As with traditional braces, the cost will be based on the
complexity of your case and the length of treatment. Many
doctors charge the same for Invisalign as they do for traditional
braces. Also, if your dental insurance plan covers traditional
braces, it will typically cover Invisalign to the same
extent
Will a retainer be necessary?
Wearing a retainer after Invisalign treatment is an important
step, because it keeps the teeth stable after the active
orthodontic tooth movement treatment is complete. Without
retainers, your teeth would most likely return to their
old positions. If you want your teeth to remain in their
ideal positions for the rest of your life, it would be
best to wear a retainer that long. Some retainers can be
put in permanently.
The retainer is made of a clear plastic removable material
that fits on your teeth like a glove on your hand that
can be worn at home and while you are sleeping. It would
look like the Invisalign aligner but would be a harder
material.
Retainers are the cheapest form of insurance around. If
you lose your retainer, it is cheaper to replace it IMMEDIATELY
than to do your orthodontic treatment over again.
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