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Your Top Invisalign® Questions

Six million people worldwide have chosen to improve their smiles with Invisalign®, according to the manufacturer of the plastic aligners. They’ve been around for over two decades, providing an effective alternative to metal braces. Are they right for you? Contact our dentists to find out. In the meantime, see if some of these common FAQs answer your questions:

How Long Does Invisalign® Treatment Take?

The treatment length varies. The primary factor is the complexity of your case. Certain cases of crooked teeth and misaligned jaws will take longer to fix than others. So there’s no way to give you a definite timeline without first meeting you.

Patient compliance is another important factor to consider. Patients who have a difficult time wearing their aligners as close to 24 hours a day as possible may find their treatment time extended. Remember to wear those aligners at least 22 hours a day in order to complete the process on time.

How Much Does Invisalign® Cost?

The cost is roughly comparable to that of traditional braces. It varies slightly depending on your case. We will provide you with cost estimates at the time of your consultation. It is possible your dental insurance policy provides some coverage for orthodontics like Invisalign®, although most policies do not cover orthodontics.

There are a few payment options available to you. We accept Lending Club and Alphaeon financing, so you can apply for one of their plans online, which makes it possible to pay for Invisalign® in monthly installments. Invisalign® is an eligible medical expense for Health Savings and Flexible Spending accounts (HSAs and FSAs), so that is an option you may be able to utilize as well.

Will I Have To Get The Attachments?

You may be familiar with “buttons” or the tiny, tooth-colored attachments that are sometimes a part of Invisalign® treatment. These little shapes may be affixed to the surface of your teeth to complete complex tooth movements. Sometimes the Invisalign® aligners need something to grip and push in order to move the teeth, and the attachments make that possible. Not all patients require attachments, but some do. They blend in quite well to the natural color of your teeth.

Is Everyone A Candidate For Invisalign®?

While it won’t work for everyone, Invisalign® is a good option in a wide array of cases. It can treat bite problems that range from simple to complex, although the treatment time may vary accordingly. The only way to know if you are a candidate is to visit our dentists for an evaluation.

An Aligned Bite Is A Healthy Bite

The bottom line is this: Invisalign® may be the right way for you to enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile. The aligners straighten teeth and create the ideal overlap between the upper and lower jaw. Not only will you feel better about how straight teeth look, you are also likely to have a more comfortable bite free from jaw pain or worn teeth. To arrange your consultation to discuss Invisalign® with our experienced Bay Area dentists, please call the DENTAL STUDIO at 415-392-5052.