Invisalign has built a reputation as a popular alternative to braces, but does it work for everyone? How is Invisalign different from traditional metal braces? How much does it cost?
These are some of the many questions we get about Invisalign clear aligners. Advancements in clear aligner technology have made Invisalign an option for more people than ever. Appel Orthodontics is a proud provider, and we’re happy to answer your questions about clear aligner treatment.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign clear aligners are an alternative to traditional metal braces or clear braces. Unlike braces, which use brackets and wires to move your teeth, they use custom-molded acrylic trays that fit your teeth snugly.
Invisalign fixes many of the same dental issues as braces.
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
- Gap teeth
- Crowded teeth
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign applies gentle pressure to move your teeth using a series of clear aligners. We harness cutting-edge technology to craft custom plans and clear aligners that gently guide your teeth into alignment.
Each set includes an upper and lower tray that is worn for 1-2 weeks. Then, they are switched out for the next set in the series. You usually get several sets at a time, which means fewer office visits for adjustments and checkups than with braces.
Invisalign VS Braces
Invisalign does have a few advantages over braces, but braces have their own advantages. They deliver equally impressive results as braces, but severe dental issues may require braces for full correction.
Their biggest advantage is the appearance — or, more accurately, its lack thereof. The clear aligners are nearly invisible on the teeth. That means no more mouthful of metal. People may not even notice you’re straightening your teeth!
Treatment times for clear aligners tend to be shorter than braces on average. How long does Invisalign take? Most patients only wear the clear aligners for 9-15 months on average, compared to 12-24 months for braces.
Eating and oral hygiene are easier as well. You remove the trays to eat, drink, brush, or floss your teeth.
It may seem the clear advantage in this fight is with the aligners, but it’s not that simple. Braces have the advantage of working 24/7 because they aren’t removable. They also can treat nearly every orthodontic problem, even the severe ones. Also, you can’t lose braces like you can clear aligners.
Can everyone wear a clear set of aligners? No, but that doesn’t mean you can’t. Can you switch from braces to Invisalign mid-treatment? We don’t recommend it, but it is possible in some cases.
When you visit Appel Orthodontics in Philadelphia, PA, we will give you a full examination and evaluation. We’ll let you know if braces or Invisalign treatment option is better for you.
Are There Food Restrictions With Invisalign?
We know there are foods to avoid with braces, but can you eat those foods with Invisalign? The answer is yes! In fact, there are no food restrictions.
You can remove your clear aligners before each meal. Be sure to rinse them well after removing them and before placing them back in your mouth after eating and brushing your teeth. Wear the aligners for at least 22 hours a day for best results; avoid leaving them out for too long.
Be sure to store your clear aligners in a proper storage case so they do not get lost or damaged. Never wrap your trays in a napkin — it’s too easy to throw them away accidentally!
Is Invisalign Painful?
As with braces, you may feel discomfort right after getting your trays for the first time. You also may feel a bit of discomfort when you change to the next set of trays. Any pain should only last a few days at most.
You can use an over-the-counter pain reliever to alleviate any discomfort. We also recommend rinsing your mouth with warm salt water a few times a day. If your discomfort level doesn’t change after a couple of days, give us a call. We may need to adjust your clear aligners.
How Do I Clean My Invisalign?
Can you use a denture cleanser to clean Invisalign? Many people have asked this question. The answer is yes, but only if you use tablets that don’t have “scrubbing” power. They may have abrasives that can create microabrasions on your trays and make them look cloudy.
Cleaning crystals and tablets are available, especially for clear aligners. To use Invisalign cleaning crystals, dissolve them in warm water and soak your clear aligners for 15-20 minutes.
You can also dilute dish soap or vinegar to clean your clear aligners. Do not use toothpaste! Most toothpaste has abrasive material in it that can cloud your clear aligners.
How Much Does Invisalign Cost?
The cost of Invisalign today is more comparable to braces than even a few years ago. Braces average $1,800-$5,000, while Invisalign runs about $3,000-$5,000. The final cost will depend on your particular treatment.
Appel Orthodontics has several financing options to help you pay for Invisalign or braces. We offer no down payment and zero percent interest payment plans. We also offer extended payment plans to lower the payments on your monthly payment plan. We accept Flexible Spending Account (FSA) payments as well.
Where Can I Get Invisalign Near Me?
Looking for an orthodontist in Philadelphia? Appel Orthodontics is a top Invisalign provider in the city! Schedule an appointment with us if you’re ready to see what Invisalign can do for you!
