You want straight teeth. You’re curious about Invisalign. But you don’t know if this orthodontic alternative is right for you or worth the investment. Discover the answers to your most common Invisalign questions from your Red Bank dentist and get the information you need to weigh the pros and cons of this innovative cosmetic dentistry treatment.
Do I have to wear Invisalign all the time?
Yes, pretty much. You do have some freedom though that wearers of conventional metal braces do not have. Invisalign trays are removable, and they must come out before every meal and snack, so you do not damage or stain them while eating and drinking. The goal is to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day – in short, as much as possible.
Are Invisalign aligners actually invisible?
Invisibility is difficult to achieve anywhere, but Invisalign trays get pretty close. The composition of the clear aligners is so smooth and slim that they fit snugly against the teeth, making them difficult to see whether you’re smiling or speaking. One of the biggest and best perks of Invisalign is being able to straighten your teeth without drawing attention to the process.
Do I need a retainer after Invisalign?
No matter what kind of braces you wear, no matter how long they’re on your teeth, you need a retainer to keep those adjusted smiles in their new positions. Retainers are customized just like Invisalign trays and usually look like the trays too. Your Red Bank dentist may recommend wearing the retainers around the clock at first and then move to wearing them only at night. These instructions keep your newly aligned teeth and hard-won smile in its proper place.
How long does treatment take?
Every Invisalign patient is different, but the average treatment time ends up being about one year for most people. There are some patients who only need a few tweaks and may only require several months of Invisalign; others will require more than 12 months to fix everything that’s out of alignment. What’s most important is staying in compliance with your Red Bank Invisalign provider’s instructions.
How much does Invisalign cost?
This is one of the most common and most important questions. Invisalign is equivalent to the cost of other orthodontic treatment, depending of course on the complexity of your case and how long your treatment is expected to last. Most patients can expect their all-inclusive number to fall between $3,000 and $7,000.
Is Invisalign right for me?
Invisalign is indeed an investment, but it’s not just a treatment that gives you a straight smile. Aligned teeth are also healthier because they’re easier to take care of, which means you are less likely to develop tooth decay or other infections and can maintain excellent oral health.
Find out if you’re a candidate for Invisalign from your Red Bank dentist and certified Invisalign provider Dr. Carole Sherrod Jewell at Red Bank Dentistry in New Jersey. Schedule a consultation and get answers to all your Invisalign questions.
