Frequently Asked Questions about Invisalign®

Many people want the perfect smile; however, the thought of burdensome braces may cause people to abandon the idea. For these patients, orthodontic specialist Dr. Steven Ricci offers Invisalign® at Ricci Orthodontics. However, many have questions regarding this option of treatment. Consider the following Invisalign® FAQs to learn more.

INVISALIGN® FAQS

Invisalign® is a cosmetic dental procedure that allows patients to have their teeth straightened without the appearance of traditional metal braces. It uses removable, aligner trays to shift teeth into their proper place. Because the trays are clear, no one will notice that you are wearing them. The aligner trays are comfortable and realign your teeth gradually over time. You also get to eliminate the discomfort associated with tightening braces and metal brackets. You replace the trays every two weeks. Invisalign® allows you to perfect your smile without ruining your existing one.

What Should I Reasonably Expect from an Invisalign® Treatment?

At your initial consultation, Dr. Steven Ricci will discuss your orthodontic needs and how Invisalign® can help you achieve the smile you desire. Our orthodontist will also address your concerns, as well as the financial and medical implications of the treatment. Dr. Steven Ricci will then take a series of pictures and X-rays and make an impression of your mouth to create a three-dimensional image of your teeth. The 3D image helps us create a personalized treatment plan for each patient. This helps us take into consideration the potential movement of your teeth as they adjust to their correct position.

The treatment plan that Dr. Steven Ricci develops facilitates the creation of your custom, clear aligner trays. The aligners are worn all day and only removed when eating and for cleaning. Every two weeks, the set of trays you are wearing get replaced with newer aligner trays. The process continues until the teeth have shifted into their correct positions. Every 6 – 12 weeks, you will return to our office for a checkup. The checkup will ensure that the Invisalign® treatment is progressing smoothly.

Are There Advantages to Using Invisalign®?

Yes. While the overall results are the same as with traditional braces, there are several advantages to using Invisalign®, such as:

• Your teeth become straight without the unsightly appearance of braces.
• Invisalign® does not affect your oral hygiene regimen, allowing you to maintain good oral health.
• The removable aligner trays mean there are no eating restrictions.
• Fewer orthodontic visits are required.
• The aligners are comfortable and will not irritate the gums or cheeks like traditional braces.

How Does Invisalign® Straighten My Teeth?

Using methods similar to those used by the brackets and wires of braces, Invisalign® uses controlled force. The controlled force is placed at the appropriate locations on the teeth to move them into position. What makes Invisalign® different from braces is the fact that these forces are timed. During each stage of the process, specific teeth are shifted. The timing of the movement is mapped out by Dr. Steven Ricci when he designs your treatment plan.

What is the Material of the Aligner Trays? How Do They Look?

The aligners are made of thermoplastic material created specifically for Invisalign®. Virtually invisible, the aligners resemble teeth-whitening trays. Dr. Steven Ricci custom designs the aligner trays for you to move your teeth in sequence according to the treatment plan.

How Much Does Invisalign® Cost?

Our team understands that finances are a major part of this process, and this is why we always strive to make these orthodontic devices as affordable as possible. Due to the fact that no two patients are alike, there isn’t a set cost for Invisalign® aligners. Variables such as the severity of the patient’s malocclusion and the length of their treatment determine the final cost. We now accept a wide variety of payment types to help you budget for your treatment.

One of the options is our in-house, INTEREST-FREE monthly payment plan. We also offer outside financing for people that need to make payments for a period of time that is longer than the treatment time. In addition, our office accepts payments by cash, checks, and Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover credit cards.

Does Insurance Cover Invisalign®?

Not all insurance policies cover Invisalign® aligners, but one of our team members will review your current policy to see if it will cover some or all of the costs.

INVISALIGN® FAQS AND RICCI ORTHODONTICS

If you have a question regarding Invisalign® other than these Invisalign® FAQs, contact Ricci Orthodontics at (678) 932-0308 today.