Invisalign Specialist

What is Invisalign®?

Invisalign is a type of orthodontic treatment that uses clear, nearly invisible plastic mouthpieces to gradually straighten your teeth and jaw. Unlike traditional braces, each mouthpiece is removable. That means you can still eat your favorite foods without worry.

Invisalign aligners are made from an FDA-approved thermoplastic called SmartTrack®. SmartTrack doesn’t contain chemicals like BPA, BPS, or latex. That means it’s safe for people with allergies and pregnant women.

What types of issues can Invisalign correct?

The team at Hillcrest Family Dentistry uses Invisalign to correct various alignment issues, including:

• Spaces between teeth
• Overcrowding
• Crossbite
• Underbite
• Overbite
• Overjet
  
  

You might also benefit from Invisalign if you have crooked teeth or a misaligned jaw.

What does Invisalign treatment involve?

Invisalign treatment begins with a comprehensive oral exam, a review of your dental health history, and a discussion of your goals for treatment. 

The team then takes impressions of your mouth with an intraoral scanner and uploads them to a computer-based design program. 

They use your scans to develop a custom treatment plan that gradually restores balance to your smile. Afterward, they send your scans to a laboratory that manufactures your first set of aligners.

Two weeks later, you return to Hillcrest Family Dentistry. You try on your first set of aligners and the team teaches you how to clean and care for them. 

Throughout treatment, you transition to a new set of aligners every three weeks. To ensure a quick effective outcome, wear your aligners for at least 20-22 hours a day.

How long does orthodontic treatment with Invisalign take?

The length of time that Invisalign treatment takes depends on the issues addressed and how closely you adhere to the team’s plan. 

Most people achieve straighter, more attractive smiles in 6-12* months, but it can take as many as 18 months or longer. For optimal results, wear your aligners daily and follow the team’s recommendations closely.

Do Invisalign aligners require cleaning and maintenance?

Invisalign aligners are just like your teeth in that they collect plaque, food particles, and bacteria. To prevent these materials from hardening or interfering with treatment, it’s important to clean your mouthpieces regularly. 

The team at Hillcrest Family Dentistry recommends rinsing your aligners in tap water several times a day and brushing them with a toothbrush at night. For more comprehensive cleanings, ask about the Invisalign cleaning system.

To learn more about the benefits of Invisalign, request a consultation at Hillcrest Family Dentistry. Book an appointment online, or call the office to speak with a member of the administrative staff today.

*Individual results may vary.