If you’re new to orthodontic treatment and considering clear aligners, you’re probably asking a lot of questions. How long does Invisalign take? Does insurance cover Invisalign? How does Invisalign technology work? Understanding the science behind the treatment can provide context for the course of your smile journey going forward, so keep reading to learn more about the logistics behind Invisalign technology at Chamberlain Family Orthodontics.
The Technology Behind Invisalign
As a modern alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign’s patented technology is what makes it so different from all other treatment options. This high-tech treatment relies on several key components to straighten your teeth with comfort and convenience.
iTero Digital Scanner
Before the iTero digital scanner, orthodontists used impression molds to create a model of your teeth. These molds often had small inaccuracies that made a big difference in treatment later on – not to mention they were uncomfortable.
The iTero digital scanner is Invisalign’s alternative to traditional impressions. By capturing highly accurate 3D images of the teeth and gums, the iTero scanner not only enhances comfort during the impression process but also improves the accuracy of the aligners, leading to more predictable and efficient treatment outcomes.
Custom Aligner Trays
Unlike the brackets and wires of traditional braces, Invisalign uses a series of custom-designed, clear plastic aligners to gradually move teeth into their desired positions. This system allows for a more discreet treatment process, reducing the visual and physical intrusiveness associated with braces.
SmartTrack Material
One of the most unique aspects of Invisalign treatment is the material used to create each aligner. This patented SmartTrack material is engineered for a snug fit over your teeth to apply the consistent and controlled force necessary to move the teeth into alignment. Because the material is designed to fit the unique contours of your smile, it helps to minimize your discomfort and irritation to the gums and mouth more effectively than other aligner brands.
The Process: How Invisalign Straightens Teeth
From start to finish, the Invisalign treatment path combines cutting-edge orthodontic technology with Dr. Chamberlain’s years of experience and precise approach to treatment. Here’s how Invisalign technology works within your comprehensive treatment plan.
Initial Consultation
The first step in the Invisalign process is an in-depth consultation at Chamberlain Family Orthodontics. During this visit, our team will take a series of 3D images of your smile with our iTero digital scanner. Dr. Chamberlain will use these images to propose a personalized treatment plan that works for your unique needs. We’ll even be able to show you a projection of how Invisalign will straighten your smile from start to finish!
Crafting Your Personalized Aligner Trays
Dr. Chamberlain will use your 3D scan, extra- and intraoral photographs, and x-rays to create a digital smile design that addresses your individual concerns and treatment goals. The treatment planning process requires a high level of precision and a deep understanding of craniofacial biology and physics. Essentially, Dr. Chamberlain programs the final tooth positions and calculates the most efficient path of movement for each tooth. After the smile design is finalized, your case is submitted to Invisalign’s lab for manufacturing of the custom aligners.
Gradual Movement
Invisalign works by applying gentle, constant pressure on your teeth to gradually move them into their correct positions over time. You’ll typically transition to a new set of trays every week, with each set making slight adjustments to the alignment of the teeth. The duration of treatment varies, usually lasting between 18-30 months, depending on the complexity of the bite and alignment issues being addressed. Throughout this period, we’ll monitor your progress with in-office visits every 8-12 weeks to make sure your treatment plan is advancing as intended. We also use Invisalign’s Virtual Care Portal to track your progress remotely before every tray change.
Living with Invisalign
While Invisalign technology simplifies the process, you’ll still have an active role in your treatment plan. Working with Invisalign requires that you stay compliant with Dr. Chamberlain’s recommendations so you can keep your plan on track for success.
Daily Wear & Maintenance
First and foremost, you’ll need to wear your Invisalign aligners for at least 22 hours per day to ensure they’re working properly. This commitment to consistency gives them adequate time to exert the necessary force to shift your teeth in line. This means you should only remove your trays when eating, drinking anything other than water, or brushing your teeth.
Adjusting to Aligners
While Invisalign aligners are designed for comfort, the initial days following a switch to a new set may bring a feeling of pressure or discomfort as the teeth begin to shift. This sensation is typically mild and is a sign that your treatment is working. Over time, you’ll likely find the aligners become a natural part of your daily routine that hardly feels noticeable in your day-to-day activities.
Eating Habits and Oral Hygiene
One of the most appreciated advantages of Invisalign is the lack of dietary restrictions. Because you can remove your clear aligner trays before eating, you can enjoy your favorite crunchy and sticky foods without worry. However, the tradeoff is that brushing after each meal before reinserting the aligners is key to maintaining oral health and avoiding trapping food particles or bacteria against your teeth.
Invisalign FAQs
Why should I see an orthodontic specialist instead of a general dentist? Dentists are experts at maintaining your oral health in general, but orthodontists are specifically trained in moving the teeth safely and effectively. During their training, orthodontists learn about the biology of tooth movement, the biomechanics of applying controlled forces to the teeth using braces, aligners, and other appliances, how teeth respond to pressure, and how to guide their movement safely over time, ensuring that the surrounding tissues and structures, such as gums and bones, remain healthy. In the same way you’d choose a surgeon over a dermatologist to perform an operation, you’ll also benefit from choosing a board-certified orthodontist over a general dentist to get the most optimal results for your smile. |
How long does Invisalign take to straighten my smile? Treatment plans are as unique to you as your smile is, which means estimated treatment times vary from patient to patient. Typically, however, you can expect your treatment to last between 12-18 months for moderate cases and 24-36 months for more complex cases. |
How soon will my Invisalign aligners arrive? Your custom aligner trays will arrive at our office 6-8 weeks after your diagnostic records appointment. If you’re ready to start treatment at your initial consultation, we can speed up the process by taking your diagnostic records the same day (while also giving you the benefits of our Same Day Advantage promotion!) |
Will Invisalign cost more than traditional braces? Chamberlain Family Orthodontics charges based on case complexity, not treatment type. This gives us the opportunity to recommend the most effective course of treatment without compromising on your case goals, lifestyle, or unique needs. |
Does insurance cover Invisalign? If your insurance plan covers orthodontic treatment, you’ll get coverage for Invisalign, too. Chamberlain Family Orthodontics will be happy to provide you with an estimate of benefits at your consultation exam. Once treatment has started, we’ll file PPO claims on your behalf to help you maximize your benefits and get the most coverage possible. |
Can Invisalign treat complicated cases? Dr. Chamberlain is a dedicated Invisalign specialist. As such, she can customize your treatment plan to fit your lifestyle, no matter the case complexity. While all cases can be treated with Invisalign, some may be more efficiently treated with fixed braces. Candidacy is often based on lifestyle goals and compliance, so we will discuss these factors together at your consultation appointment to determine the right course of treatment for your needs. |
Do I have to have attachments? All Invisalign treatments require attachments. In fact, Dr. Chamberlain will apply an attachment to almost every single tooth being moved to provide the most efficient, predictable, and accurate outcome possible. But don’t stress about the appearance of these attachments! We use a highly aesthetic, translucent attachment material to keep your treatment discreet. |
Can you wear elastics with aligners? Absolutely! Just like with braces, elastics are worn with aligners for bite correction. This makes it possible to treat complex cases with aligners, so you don’t have to compromise on aesthetics, accuracy, or efficiency – you can have it all! |
Learn More About Invisalign at Chamberlain Family Orthodontics
As one of the most versatile, comfortable treatment plans available, Invisalign is a top choice for patients at Chamberlain Family Orthodontics. From start to finish, our team goes above and beyond to make you and your family feel comfortable during treatment – after all, your smiles make us smile! If you’re ready to learn more about how Invisalign technology can give you the straight teeth you’ve always wanted, schedule a free consultation in Redlands or Beaumont today!