Straightening Smiles with Invisalign in Waco
If you are interested in improving the alignment of your crowded, gapped, or otherwise misaligned teeth, you do not have to sacrifice a year or more of your life wearing conventional metal braces. More adults than ever are seeking orthodontic treatment thanks to Invisalign, which uses clear, removable aligners to gradually reposition the teeth. Teens can also benefit from this method thanks to modifications that make it easier for young patients to comply with the treatment. Keep reading to find out more about Invisalign in Waco -- and whether or not it’s right for your smile.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a clear aligner braces system that is backed by the experience of 20 years and over 4 million smiles treated worldwide. Using a series of clear plastic aligners that are custom-fitted to your unique dentition, Invisalign places focused pressure on different areas of the bite throughout the treatment to gradually bring your teeth into the proper position.
Invisalign uses the same orthodontic principles as conventional orthodontics, but with clear, removable materials. That makes it a wonderful alternative for busy adults and image-conscious teens alike.
This clear braces system can be used to correct the most common orthodontic issues, including:
- Gapped teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Overbite, when the upper teeth reach too far over the lower ones
- Underbite, when the lower teeth cover the upper ones
- Crossbite, when the upper and lower jaw are both misaligned
- Open bite, when the upper and lower jaw do not meet
You wear each aligner for 20 to 22 hours each day, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Switch to the next aligner in the series after one to two weeks, gradually working your way to your beautiful, confident smile!
Advantages of Invisalign
- Clear plastic aligners are practically invisible when worn
- You don’t have to modify your diet with removable aligners
- Fewer visits to the dentist are required throughout the treatment with Invisalign
- Brushing and flossing are as easy as ever with removable aligners
- Smooth plastic is more comfortable than bulky metal brackets
- You can remove Invisalign to speak and smile with confidence for special occasions
Understanding the Cost of Invisalign
Invisalign is associated with a large price tag, but it’s more affordable than you might think. Many factors affect the cost of Invisalign, but Dental Station Family Dentistry strives to keep a straight, healthy smile affordable for everyone. We can improve your bite and alignment without costing you an arm or a leg. Here’s how you can invest in the clear choice in orthodontics.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Invisalign
There’s a certain art and science involved with moving teeth. Even the smallest error can create significant complications. With every mouth as unique as fingerprints, there’s no one-size-fits-all series of aligners. Instead, your dentist creates a personalized strategy to move your teeth gradually. Various things will influence your treatment plan and the cost, like:
- Preliminary Treatments: You must have healthy teeth and gums to be a candidate for Invisalign. It’s not unusual to require a little prep work, like a dental cleaning, filling, or gum disease therapy.
- Complexity of Tooth Movements: Major tooth movements will require more time to treat. You’ll need more aligners than a person with minor bite and alignment problems.
- Age: Adults can experience slower tooth movements than teens because their teeth are more firmly set in the jawbone.
- The Number of Arches: Treating both arches will increase the cost, but only fixing the top or bottom is rare.
Invisalign vs. Smile Direct Club™: Which Costs More?
You’ve probably seen several ads for mail-order aligners, which cut out the middleman to save money. However, a dentist is much more than a middleman. They are a highly qualified professional who specializes in orthodontic treatment. They will ensure your mouth is healthy and you’re a candidate for clear aligners, which doesn’t happen with mail-order products. You’re also responsible for taking your own impression to create your aligners. The smallest movement or error can cause serious issues that can lead to tooth and gum damage, pain, and much more. Since you're never under the supervision of a dentist, issues can go undetected until they turn into a big problem. You’ll save money initially with mail-order braces, but they can cost you your smile down the road. It’s best to invest in the experience and qualifications of a cosmetic dentist.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Invisalign?
Every insurance policy differs, but many dental plans can be used to pay for some of the expenses, like your consultation, diagnostic services, or preliminary procedures. After meeting your deductible, your insurance can pay a set amount to reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Options for Making Invisalign Affordable
Besides using your dental insurance, we also accept other payment methods, including:
- Traditional Payments: Our office accepts personal checks, cash, and credit cards for your convenience.
- CareCredit: Based on your credit approval, you can enjoy little or no interest financing to make monthly payments on any out-of-pocket expenses.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
To learn more about Invisalign and whether or not this popular orthodontic option is right for your smile, we invite you to contact Dental Station Waco. It’s never too late to benefit from straighter teeth! Request an appointment online today.
Invisalign FAQs
Whether you’ve suffered orthodontic regression or you’re finally ready to invest in a straight smile, Invisalign in Waco is a discreet solution to get the results you want. The clear aligners are a comfortable and nearly invisible treatment to move your teeth into their ideal positions. While you’re excited to discover their benefits for yourself, it’s normal to have a few concerns before you’re ready to commit to the treatment. We’ll take the time to address them during your consultation. In the meantime, here are the answers to a few of the most common questions we hear to feel confident in the decisions you’re making for your smile.
Does Invisalign hurt?
Many patients prefer Invisalign because the aligners are smooth and custom fit. There aren’t any brackets or wires causing irritation to the inside of your lips or cheeks. As a result, the aligners are often more comfortable than traditional braces. You will experience some discomfort when switching to a new aligner in your series; however, it’s minimal and can be managed using an over-the-counter pain reliever.
How many aligners will I need?
There isn’t any way to determine how many aligners you’ll need without first examining your teeth and bite. Generally, people who have more complex needs will require more aligners than someone who only needs minor adjustments. We will explain how many aligners you’ll need during your initial consultation.
How long will my treatment take?
The average treatment plan takes about 12 months to complete; however, everyone’s needs differ. The more aligners you need, the longer you can expect your treatment to take. To ensure there aren’t any unnecessary delays, it’s best to wear your aligners for at least 22 hours per day and switch to the next one in the series on time. Changing your aligners too soon or late can create complications in your treatment plan that add to the duration you’ll need to wear them.
Will I need a retainer afterward?
After you’ve finished your series of aligners, you’ll need a retainer to protect your investment. At first, you’ll only need to wear your retainer all the time to prevent your teeth from moving back into their previous positions. Over time, you’ll only need to wear it at night. There are many types available to find the perfect one to meet your needs and your individual preferences.
Can I use my dental insurance?
Believe it or not, many dental insurance companies cover Invisalign, although every policy differs. A member of our team will work on your behalf with your insurance carrier, so you will have one less thing to worry about. We will file the necessary claims and forms to lower your out-of-pocket cost. We’ll take the time to explain how your benefits are being used and if there’s a remaining balance. Don’t worry, we’ll help you find the solutions you need to keep your dream smile within your budget.