Considering Invisalign? Questions every patient should ask.

1. Am I a candidate for Invisalign?

Invisalign can be a great treatment choice for many people who desire a more beautiful smile but unfortunately it is not the right choice for every one.  Invisalign works best for mild to moderate crowding or spacing and in those situations treatment results can be tremendous.  It does not work as well with severe crowding or spacing or to correct significant bite problems. To know if you are a candidate an orthodontic consult is necessary to determine if Invisalign is right for you.  In our practice diagnostic photos and x-rays are done in combination with a thorough exam.  

2. What if Invisalgn doesn't provide me with the result that I desire?

As an orthodontic specialist, I am able to use additional orthodontic methods to achieve excellent results for my patients.  In fact, it is very common for Invisalign patients to wear braces as part of their treatment.  Fortunately, the braces are usually worn for a short period of time and usually in the lower arch only.  

3. What training is necessary to become an Invisalign provider?

To become an Invisalign provider an orthodontist or dentist must attend a "weekend" training and certification course provided by Invisalign.  Although the aligners are made by Invisalign, it is the treating clinicians responsibility to determine how and where the teeth will be moved. A clinician must possess a  thorough understanding of orthodontic principles.

4. Is Invisalign treatment easy?

Yes and no.  For the patient it is generally an easy process with minimal discomfort.  As an orthodontist, it is one of the most challenging things I do on a daily basis.  As a provider of Invisalign for over nine years and having successfully treated hundreds of patients, I can safely say that it is generally much easier to move teeth with braces than with Invisalign. 

5. How do I keep my teeth straight after treatment?

Long term, life time retention is the only way to ensure that you will maintain a beautiful smile after your treatment is complete.  While many dentists and orthodontists use the final aligners as retainers, I do not believe that is an adequate solution.  Since most patients find it difficult to wear removable retainers for the rest of their lives, I place bonded retainers on the vast majority of my Invisalgn patients.  We also provide removable retainers which are generally worn only at night time.  With a "belt and suspenders" approach, I do everything possible to help my patients maintain their beautiful smile for their entire life.
Please remember:  Invisalign is just a tool for straightening teeth.  Just as a carpenter uses many tools to build a house, I use many different appliances to move teeth.  If your goal is straight teeth and a beautiful smile be sure your Invisalign provider has all the tools!