Invisalign: The Clear Choice for Straighter Teeth
If you’re looking for a discreet and effective way to straighten your teeth in Hilliard, Invisalign® clear aligners may be the ideal solution. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign is nearly invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing, making it a comfortable and convenient treatment option. Long gone are the days of straightening your teeth with metal brackets, uncomfortable bands, and restricted diets.
Dr. Nathan Desai offers Invisalign in Hilliard as a way to improve both oral health and appearance. If you’re ready to see if Invisalign treatment is right for you, contact our Hilliard dental office today at (614) 771-6060.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a revolutionary alternative to traditional braces. Instead of brackets and metal wires, Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually shift your teeth into proper alignment.
This advanced clear aligner system is custom-made for your unique smile and is nearly invisible when worn, making it a popular choice for adults and teens in Hilliard who are looking to improve their oral health and appearance without the hassle of regular braces. While not everyone qualifies for this orthodontic treatment, it has revolutionized the field of dentistry.
The Importance of Straight Teeth
Having straight teeth isn’t just about looking good and feeling confident — it’s also important for your oral health. Benefits of straight teeth include:
- Nicer Appearance: Straighter teeth are often considered more attractive and can boost self-confidence, while crooked or crowded teeth can detract from one’s smile.
- Better Oral Hygiene: Properly aligned teeth are easier to brush and floss, allowing you to maintain good oral hygiene and reduce the risk of periodontal disease.
- Improved Speech: Aligned teeth make it easier to speak clearly and pronounce words.
- Eating With Ease: Having properly positioned teeth makes chewing and biting easier, without accidental biting of the tongue or cheeks.
- Avoiding Problems: Crooked teeth are more prone to excessive wear, chipping, and cracking, leading to an increased chance of tooth decay and gum disease. Straight teeth distribute force evenly.
- Increase in Confidence: A nice smile projects confidence and straight teeth are seen as attractive and healthy.
- Reduced Amount of Headaches: Correcting bite issues and misaligned teeth can relieve headaches or migraines.
What Do Invisalign Clear Aligners Fix?
Invisalign aligners can correct a wide range of orthodontic issues, including:
- Crooked teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Crossbites
During your initial consultation with one of our Hilliard dentists, they’ll evaluate your teeth and determine if Invisalign treatment is the right choice for your unique dental issues.
Invisalign Candidacy
Invisalign treatment is a great option for many patients, but it’s not suitable for everyone. Good candidates for Invisalign in Hilliard, OH, typically include:
- Have mild to moderate orthodontic issues
- Are committed to wearing their aligners for at least 22 hours a day
- Brush and floss regularly to maintain good oral hygiene
- Can afford the cost of treatment or have insurance that covers Invisalign
- Are in good overall oral health
If you have more complex or severe orthodontic issues, our Hilliard dentist may recommend traditional braces or other types of orthodontic treatment.
Benefits of Invisalign
Patients can enjoy various benefits with Invisalign:
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Comfortable treatment
- Removable
- Better oral health
- Easy care
- Predictable
- Fewer office visits
How Invisalign Treatment Works
The Invisalign treatment begins with an initial consultation where one of our Hilliard dentists performs a full examination, potentially including X-rays, to determine if you are a suitable candidate for Invisalign clear aligners. The dentist will evaluate what dental issues are present and let you know if they can be effectively corrected with Invisalign treatment.
If you and the dentist decide to proceed with Invisalign, the next step is taking thorough 3D digital scans of your teeth. These scans allow you to preview how your teeth will shift into the desired position over the course of treatment. The scan data is then used to custom-manufacture your series of clear plastic aligners.
During a follow-up appointment, the first aligner tray will be installed and trimmed to fit along your gum line. You’ll be sent home with this initial set of aligners and instructed to wear them for 20 to 22 hours per day, only removing them for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. Each set of aligners is worn for around two weeks before moving on to the next set in the series.
You will need to attend regular check-up visits every six to eight weeks so your Invisalign dentist or orthodontist can monitor your progress and provide you with the next few sets of aligners in the sequence. With each new aligner tray, your teeth will undergo a subtle shift toward the final desired positioning.
The tooth movements are gradual, and most patients do not experience any significant pain throughout the Invisalign treatment process. Over time, the incremental aligner changes will gently yet effectively move your teeth into proper alignment.
Cost of Invisalign Treatment
The cost of Invisalign treatment can vary depending on various factors, such as your geographic location, the complexity of your case, and your dental insurance coverage. On average, the cost of Invisalign ranges between $3,000 and $8,000. Many dentists and orthodontists offer flexible monthly payment plans to help make the treatment more affordable.
Your insurance company may cover a portion of the Invisalign cost, so be sure to check with your provider about their coverage for orthodontic treatment. The Invisalign company also offers various financing options to help make the treatment more accessible.
Before and After
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Invisalign aligners worth it?
For many patients, Invisalign aligners are worth the investment due to their aesthetic appeal, comfort, removability, and ability to achieve predictable results in straightening teeth while allowing for better oral hygiene during treatment.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
The average Invisalign treatment time is 12 to 18 months, but the exact duration can vary depending on the complexity of your orthodontic issues and how well you follow your treatment plan.
Are Invisalign clear aligners uncomfortable to wear?
When you first start wearing a new set of Invisalign clear aligners, they may feel slightly uncomfortable or tight. This is completely normal, as the clear aligners are designed to fit snugly over your teeth to gradually shift them into their proper position. However, any discomfort typically subsides within a few days of wearing the new clear aligners.
How often do I need to visit the dentist during Invisalign treatment?
You’ll need to visit your dentist or orthodontist every six to eight weeks during your Invisalign treatment plan. These visits are important for monitoring your progress and making any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. At each visit, you’ll receive your next set of aligners to continue the progression of your custom treatment plan.
Get a Straighter, Healthier Smile at Fishinger Dental
Don’t let crooked or misaligned teeth hold you back from feeling confident and happy with your smile. Dr. Nathan Desai and our team at Fishinger Dental in Hilliard, OH, are here to help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile with Invisalign clear aligners. We understand the emotional impact that dental issues can have on your self-esteem and overall well-being, which is why we’re committed to providing compassionate care and effective orthodontic treatment options like Invisalign.
Contact our Hilliard dental office today at (614) 771-6060 to schedule your Invisalign consultation. We welcome new and returning patients from Columbus, Dublin, Upper Arlington, Grove City, Westerville, and surrounding areas in Ohio. Take the first step toward your new smile with Invisalign at Fishinger Dental!