Invisalign is arguably the most popular clear aligner system in the world, and it is undoubtedly the treatment patients ask for by name, which is why we’re pleased to offer it in our Lakeville dental office.
Our dentists love helping patients achieve their smile goals, and Invisalign helps them do that!
If you have crooked or crowded teeth, it certainly detracts from your smile, but correcting these issues also promotes better oral health.
Part 1 of this guide explores the following:
- How Clear Aligners Work
- The Benefits of Invisalign in Lakeville, MN
- Invisalign: The Step-by-Step Process
- Why Choose Platt Dentistry for Your Invisalign Treatment
- Invisalign Costs at a Glance
- About the Next Installment: The Ultimate Guide to Invisalign Clear Aligners (Part 2)
How Clear Aligners Work
Clear aligners fit discreetly over your teeth, gently guiding them into straighter positions over the course of the treatment timeline. The shift is gradual to promote a more comfortable orthodontic treatment.
After you start aligner therapy with Invisalign, you’ll change them every few weeks (moving on to the next set in the series) and notice your teeth gradually moving into straighter positions as you work through your aligner supply. We determine your treatment timeline during your initial evaluation with our Invisalign dentist in Lakeville, MN. The timeline is based on the complexity of your orthodontic issues.
If you have questions along the way, our friendly team is always here to provide practical tips and guidance.
The Benefits of Invisalign in Lakeville, MN
Invisalign offers several advantages compared to traditional braces, including the following:
- Discreet Treatment: Unlike traditional metal and bracket braces, Invisalign does not draw attention to treatment. Friends and colleagues may not even notice your aligners
- Easier Oral Hygiene: You can remove your aligners to brush and floss; there are no wires to work around.
- Fewer Trips to the Dentist: Typically, you visit us only periodically for monitoring during your Invisalign journey.
- No Eating Restrictions: Because you remove your aligners to eat, you don’t have to restrict your diet.
- Comfort: Of course, any appliance or aligner in the mouth means an adjustment period, but Invisalign is made of smooth plastic for your comfort. You should assimilate in no time!
There are certainly benefits to consider after treatment as well.
You’ll enjoy more productive brushing and flossing with fewer tight spaces for bacteria to collect. An aligned bite also contributes to tooth health and helps reduce wear and tear.
Additionally, orthodontic treatment supports the health of your jaw joint, allowing for normal function and potentially reducing nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism).
Invisalign: The Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: The Consultation
Your consultation determines whether Invisalign can correct your orthodontic issues and help you achieve your smile goals.
Drs. Mackenzie King Platt or Kacie Sharpe, your dentists in Lakeville, MN, will then evaluate your oral health to ensure that Invisalign is the correct orthodontic treatment for you.
In some cases, you’re an immediate candidate. Other times, the dentist discusses pretreatments to help make Invisalign a reality. Pretreatments may include an extraction if the jaw is overcrowded or cavity treatment if we find decay; it’s best to address your oral health issues before starting Invisalign.
This appointment is also a great time to ask questions and share your concerns with the dentist. During this visit, we can also determine the treatment timeline, allowing you to make an informed decision about your orthodontic care.
Step 2: Preparation
The dentist performs all necessary pretreatments, takes impressions of your teeth, and forwards the results to the Invisalign lab.
When the aligners arrive in our dental office, you come in to pick them up. Now, it’s time to start treatment.
Step 3: Treatment
Treatment can last anywhere from several months to more than two years, with an average duration of 18 months.
You should wear your aligners according to your dentist’s schedule (shoot for approximately 22 hours daily) and change them on time. As you move through your aligners, you’ll notice your teeth moving into desirable positions, which is always exciting.
Step 4: Aftercare
After Invisalign therapy, your dentist creates a custom retainer to help your teeth remain in their new, straight position. It’s essential to wear this retainer as directed to prevent orthodontic relapse.
Why Choose Platt Dentistry for Your Invisalign Treatment
Our compassionate dentists bring over two decades of combined experience to our valued patients. Daily, they combine skill with genuine patient care and take pleasure in connecting with members of our community.
Of course, they also stay current on the latest advances in dental care and are always eager to bring innovative solutions to Platt Dentistry.
With Drs. Mackenzie King Platt or Kacie Sharpe, you are in excellent hands!
Invisalign Costs at a Glance
Invisalign costs vary from patient to patient, depending on the complexity of each patient's orthodontic issues. However, your consultation determines costs and candidacy. Your dentist or a member of our team can break down the costs after we’ve evaluated your orthodontic needs and learn more about your specific goals.
About the Next Installment: The Ultimate Guide to Invisalign Clear Aligners (Part 2)
Click here to read part 2!
Invisalign: Because You Deserve a Beautiful Smile
To learn more about Invisalign or to book a consultation with one of our dedicated dentists, call us today at (952) 469-4588 to get started.