Invisalign

Invisalign is an esthetically pleasing orthodontic alternative for traditional metal braces, which are often thought to be unattractive. Another clear aligner alternative for straightening the teeth is called ClearCorrect. Invisalign straightens teeth using a series of clear plastic aligners that are specifically designed to slowly move teeth into the desired position. Because the removable aligners (measuring less than one millimeter thick) offer a more appealing teeth-straightening option than conventional braces, Invisalign has grown in popularity among adults and teenagers.

What's Involved with Invisalign Treatment?

Invisalign treatment begins with a set of impressions and photographs of your teeth, which are taken during an initial examination. These impressions are used to construct a three-dimensional computer prediction of how your teeth could be moved incrementally, which is the basis for creating a series of custom-made aligners to achieve this movement. The ClearCorrect series of aligners are created in a similar way.

Using computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) processes, Invisalign aligners are manufactured at a specialized dental laboratory, then sent back to your dentist. Your dentist will provide you with your aligners in groups of one or two at a time during routine follow-up appointments (approximately every four to six weeks) so that your treatment can be appropriately managed.

The aligners must be worn in a specific order for about two weeks each, during which time your teeth can move in small amounts (about .25 to .33 millimeters). The aligners are removable to allow for eating, drinking certain beverages and brushing/flossing, but in order to successfully realign teeth, it is best that you wear them for a minimum of 20 hours per day.

About 20 to 30 aligners are required for both upper and lower teeth. Although many adults can potentially complete their treatment in less than a year, the extent of treatment is based on an individual's specific alignment problem.

Invisalign Treatment: What Dental Problems Can Be Corrected?

Invisalign can be used to correct dental problems such as overly crowded teeth, widely spaced teeth, overbite/overjet, and crossbite. In addition, Invisalign can correct mild relapses after removal of traditional braces, where some relapsing tooth movements have occurred. Invisalign may also be a treatment option for simple bite irregularities. Invisalign might not be a viable option for more complex dental problems or specific cases of misalignment.

Cost for Invisalign Treatment

The cost for Invisalign treatment is similar to the cost of traditional braces, averaging around $3,000 to $5,000. However, only your dentist can determine the exact treatment cost, because the cost is based on significant factors such as the specific needs of the patient, including the extent of the dental problem, how long treatment lasts, etc.

Some dental offices may offer certain payment options or financing. In addition, some dental insurance plans also may provide coverage for Invisalign treatment in the same way that traditional orthodontic treatments (such as braces) are covered. Check with your dental insurance plan to find out what benefits you have.

Invisalign vs. ClearCorrect

Another clear aligner alternative for straightening teeth is ClearCorrect, which also is a series of custom-fit, removable aligners that slowly realign teeth into the desired position. Similar to Invisalign, impressions are used to create a 3-D model of the teeth so that sets of ClearCorrect aligners can be fabricated to gradually move your teeth to correct crowded or spaced teeth, overbites, underbites and crooked (turned) teeth.