Invisalign – Corpus Christi, TX

Achieve Straight Teeth Without the Brackets and Wires

How Invisalign Works

After Dr. John Thompson has performed a comprehensive exam and confirmed that you’re a candidate, he will use images and impressions to create a map of your treatment. Using this information, he will develop a series of custom-made aligners.

You will wear each aligner in the series for about three weeks. You need to keep the aligners in place at all times, except when eating, drinking, and caring for your teeth. Over the course of the next few months, you will gradually see your teeth move into their correct position. At the end of your treatment, you will briefly need a retainer to prevent your teeth from moving back into their previous positions.

Indications for Invisalign

Over the last two decades, Invisalign has continued to advance. As a result, their clear aligners can help patients with everything from overcrowded teeth to uneven bites! To learn more about common orthodontic issues and how Invisalign can correct them, read on:

Crowded Teeth

Crowded teeth can take a toll on your self-confidence. Perhaps even more importantly, the unique crevices from overlapping teeth can make it easy for food particles and debris to get stuck, increasing your chances of developing cavities. To address this, the clear aligners apply just enough pressure to gradually shift your teeth into their ideal positions.

Gaps Between Teeth

Gapped teeth also have the potential to negatively affect your oral health and your confidence. Once again, Invisalign can close the gaps – step by step, aligner by aligner. With an average treatment timeline of just 12 to 18 months, you can have the straight teeth and beautiful smile you’ve been dreaming of in no time at all!

Bite Alignment

If your bite alignment is off, your chewing and speaking patterns may be off as well. Don’t worry – Invisalign can correct uneven bites! That way, you have a smile that is as functional as it is beautiful.

The Benefits of Invisalign

Over the years, Invisalign has become the preferred orthodontic treatment because:

• The aligners are clear – No one will be able to tell you’re wearing them!
• The aligners are removable – So you will not have oral hygiene or dietary restrictions like those with metal braces.
• The aligners are comfortabale – Since the material is smooth, there is no irritation to the inside of the lips or cheeks.
• There are fewer check-in visits – In short, no adjustments are needed, so you do not need to visit the dentist as often.
• The average treatment timeline is shorter – Although the length of your treatment plan will vary depending on your specific needs, the average treatment length is about 12 months.

The Cost of Invisalign

Simply put, Invisalign isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment. As a result, there isn’t a flat fee. Before providing you with a cost estimate at your consultation, we will need to take numerous factors into account, from how severe your misalignment is and how many trays you need to whether you need to straighten one or both arches of teeth. Don’t worry – we’ll go the extra mile to make understanding the cost as simple and straightforward as possible.

Invisalign FAQs

Investing in orthodontics is a big decision. It’s normal to have a few questions before you’re ready to commit to Invisalign in Corpus Christi, but don’t let that stand in your way of a straight smile. Dr. Thompson will explain everything during your consultation for clear aligners. Here are the answers to a few frequently asked questions to ease any apprehensions about the road ahead.

What does Invisalign look like?

Invisalign is unlike traditional braces because brackets and wires aren’t necessary. Instead, clear plastic aligners are worn over your teeth. While you can see them in your hand, they are virtually invisible while they are in your mouth. With the right care and maintenance, your aligners will stay transparent, so unnecessary attention won’t be drawn to your smile. Some patients require attachments, elastics, or buttons to promote the alignment process. Although they aren’t transparent, they are still less noticeable than metal braces.

Can you eat with Invisalign?

Many patients choose Invisalign because they don’t have to deal with any dietary restrictions. You can snack on some popcorn or even a piece of candy because your aligners are removable. You can eat and drink anything you want; however, remove your aligners beforehand to avoid damaging them and placing unnecessary pressure on your teeth. It’s best to only have water while wearing them. Be sure to store your aligners in a safe place, so you don’t accidentally lose them. Don’t forget to brush your teeth and rinse your aligners before putting them back in your mouth.

What happens after Invisalign?

Orthodontics is a big investment. You don’t want your teeth moving back into their previous positions after finishing your series of aligners. A retainer will help maintain your results. Initially, you’ll need to wear your retainer all the time. There are many types available to find the discreet, sophisticated option you need. Over time, your cosmetic dentist in Corpus Christi will reduce how often you must wear it until it is only necessary at night.

How do I clean my aligners?

Your oral hygiene routine is crucial to keeping your teeth and gums healthy while protecting your aligners from stains. There are special cleaning kits designed for clear aligners, but you can also use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear antibacterial hand soap. Only use room temperature water when rinsing them, which should be done throughout the day. You will also need to keep your mouth clean. Brush and floss your teeth after every meal to prevent cavity-causing bacteria and food particles from being trapped between the aligners and your enamel. Although you’ll see your dentist often to monitor your treatment progression, you will also need to have a cleaning and checkup at least every 6 months. With the right daily care, you don’t have to worry about any stains or discoloration. You’ll also keep odor-causing bacteria at bay, so you always feel your best about your smile.