Our dentist and team want you stay informed during every step of your Invisalign® treatment. That is why Dr. Mojgan Hashemi has provided the following frequently asked questions below. Do you have a question that wasn’t answered? Want to learn more about Invisalign clear aligners in Thousand Oaks, California? Call Los Robles General & Cosmetic Dental today at 805-449-9952 to schedule your consultation.
What are Invisalign® clear aligners?
Invisalign clear aligners are an orthodontic treatment that uses custom-made, clear plastic aligners rather than traditional braces to straighten your teeth.
How does Invisalign treatment work?
Invisalign treatment uses a digital treatment plan to map out the tooth movements that are needed to straighten your teeth and smile. Our dentist can then provide a series of specially designed aligners to gradually move your teeth into their optimal positions. As you switch to each new set of aligners, small adjustments will be made to the positions of your teeth until they are in the correct positions.
What are the benefits of Invisalign treatment?
There are many benefits to Invisalign treatment, including:
- A nearly invisible treatment
- Removable aligners that allow you to brush, floss and eat normally
- No metal brackets or wires
- Custom-made aligners that are comfortable and will not irritate your mouth
Who is a candidate for Invisalign treatment?
Anyone can be a candidate for Invisalign treatment. This orthodontic treatment option is popular among teenagers and adults, as it is both discreet and effective.
What is the treatment process with Invisalign?
Your Invisalign treatment will begin with a consultation. Once our dentist and team have evaluated your mouth and determined that Invisalign treatment is a good option for you, we will map out your digital treatment plan and arrange for your aligners to be created. You will wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day and will switch to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, as directed by our dentist. You will need to visit our office regularly throughout your treatment to ensure that your teeth and smile are moving into their correct positions.
How much does Invisalign treatment cost?
The cost of Invisalign treatment is comparable to braces. Your treatment cost will depend on how complex your case is and how many sets of aligners are needed. Most dental insurance providers will cover Invisalign treatment, and our office also provides several financial options for your use.
How will Invisalign aligners affect my lifestyle?
Invisalign clear aligners are minimally invasive and designed to have as little impact on your lifestyle as possible. Your aligners are nearly invisible as well as removable so that you can eat, brush and floss normally.
Is Invisalign treatment painful?
No. While you may feel some temporary discomfort for the first few days you wear your aligners, it will fade as your mouth and tongue adjust to the aligners.
How do I take care of my aligners?
There are several ways to care for your aligners. We recommend using the Invisalign® cleaning system, though you can also brush them with a toothbrush and rinse them in lukewarm water. Do not use hot water, as it will warp the plastic and ruin your aligners. We also strongly recommend that you do not chew gum, smoke, eat or drink while wearing the aligners, as it can cause damage to the appliance.
What do I do if an aligner breaks?
If your aligner breaks or is lost, please contact our office immediately. We may order a replacement aligner or have you wear an aligner from your previous or next set.
Can I still use Invisalign aligners if I have had braces or other dental work?
Yes. Many people receive a combination treatment using both braces and Invisalign aligners, and a number of patients who have had braces in the past use Invisalign aligners if their teeth shift out of position. You can also receive Invisalign treatment if you have veneers or crowns. Our dentist will evaluate your mouth during your initial consultation to determine if Invisalign treatment is a good option for you.
What happens when I finish treatment?
After completing your Invisalign treatment, you will need to wear a retainer. The retainer can keep your teeth in their correct positions to prevent regression and make your newly straightened smile permanent. Our dentist will provide instructions on wearing and caring for your retainer at the time you receive it.
Invisalign and the Invisalign logo, among others, are trademarks of Align Technology, Inc., and are registered in the U.S. and other countries.
