If you've always wanted straight teeth, but never liked the idea of having braces, Invisalign® may be the perfect treatment for you. Invisalign® is a clinically proven method to straighten teeth that uses a series of clear removable aligners instead of metal wires or brackets.
Our office will give you an initial examination to determine if the Invisalign® treatment is right for you. If it appears that it is an option, we will take photographs, X-rays, and an impression of your teeth.
Dr. Kneib, a certified Invisalign® dentist, will then complete further diagnostic analysis to verify that Invisalign® will work for you and create a treatment plan that will determine exactly how the teeth will be straightened. At that time, we will also be able to let you know the estimated cost and length of the Invisalign® treatment and determine if you qualify for orthodontic insurance benefits.
When the treatment plan is finalized, your records will be sent to Invisalign® along with instructions from Dr. Kneib. Using the latest advances in 3-D computer technology, Invisalign® then translates those instructions into a series of aligners, customized specifically for you.
The total treatment time for most Invisalign® patients averages between 9 and 15 months. During that time, most patients will wear between 18 and 30 different aligners. As you replace each aligner with the next one in the series, your teeth will move—little by little, week by week—until they have straightened into the final position your dentist has prescribed. Typically, each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks. You should wear the aligners at all times to achieve the best results, only removing them to eat, drink, brush, and floss. You will also visit our office once every six weeks to ensure that your Invisalign® treatment is progressing as planned.
Before Invisalign |
After Invisalign |
How long does it take to straighten your teeth using Invisalign?
This can vary widely, depending on the severity of the case. It can take anywhere from several months to around 18 months for Invisalign to straighten your teeth, but this amount of time can indeed vary from person to person. Some people see a difference in their smile within the first 3 or 4 months of wearing Invisalign.
Is Invisalign better than braces?
Depending on the severity of the misalignment of your teeth, Invisalign may be a better option than braces. This is because the Invisalign retainer is more comfortable than braces. Not only is it softer on the gums, but Invisalign also does not apply as much pressure to your teeth as braces.
What are the cons of Invisalign?
While Invisalign can be a great option to realign teeth, there are some cons to keep in mind.
Can Invisalign fix an overbite and/or underbite?
Yes! Invisalign can fix an overbite. Invisalign clear aligners do this by repositioning protruding teeth. On average, it takes about a year to correct an overbite with Invisalign.
How much does Invisalign cost?
The average cost of Invisalign ranges from $3,500 to $8,000 (without insurance), according to the manufacturer. The cost may vary depending on the needs of patients and the amount of different retainers (trays) required.
Compared to traditional orthodontic braces, Invisalign can be quite comparable in price, but once again can vary depending on the severity of the case at hand.
How many hours a day should you wear your Invisalign?
Patients should wear their Invisalign for 22 hours a day for best results.
Less daily wear time will result in a longer overall orthodontic timeline. Additionally, when not wearing Invisalign, teeth may still tend to shift, making it more uncomfortable and difficult to put the Invisalign back in after having it out.
Can teeth move back after Invisalign treatments?
Yes. Teeth can and will move back to (or close to) their original place after completing Invisalign treatments if patients fail to wear a retainer. This is why it is important to have a retainer that fits well and a routine for wearing it.
If you are having problems with your retainer or are afraid that your teeth are shifting back, it is important to make an appointment with your dentist right away.
Monday | 7:30am - 5:00pm |
Tuesday | 7:30am - 5:00pm |
Wednesday | 7:30am - 5:00pm |
Thursday | 8:00am - 5:00pm |
Friday | 8:00am - 1:00pm | No Appointments |