Invisalign
Misaligned or crowded teeth may seem like only a cosmetic concern, but they can deeply impact your oral health. You may have a greater risk of decay, physical symptoms, and even wearing down your teeth. Invisalign allows patients to have subtle orthodontic treatment for a healthier bite. A full treatment often lasts less than 2 years while providing significant improvements in the function, feel, and appearance of your smile.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an orthodontic system that uses clear aligners instead of traditional metal brackets. You wear a series of aligning trays that gradually move your teeth into the desired position. Every 1 to 2 weeks, you receive a new tray, which picks up where the previous one left off. By the end, your teeth will have settled into better alignment, all without any visible dental appliances.
Benefits of Invisalign
- Subtle treatment with clear aligners
- More comfortable than traditional braces
- Fewer dental visits needed during treatment
- Convenient to remove and clean
- Significant improvements with proper treatment
Who Is a Candidate for Invisalign?
Invisalign works best for mild to moderate alignment issues. If you have severe crowding or misalignment, we may need to consider traditional braces. However, improvements in Invisalign techniques now make the treatment viable for a broader range of patients dealing with:
- Overbite or underbite
- Crossbite
- Teeth crowding
- Gaps between teeth
- Shifting after previous braces
The Process
Examination: Dr. Patel will assess your bite and how much space is available for your teeth. If Invisalign is possible, he will build an individualized treatment plan.
3D Scanning: Successful treatment starts with fully visualizing your bite and jaw. This lets us plan each stage of treatment ahead of time to optimize the process.
First Trays: Once we receive your first sets of trays, you can come in to try them. We check again that every detail is in order. You will need to wear them for at least 22 hours daily, removing them only for meals and daily cleaning.
Subsequent Trays: Depending on your treatment plan, you will receive additional trays that you will switch to every 1–2 weeks. Invisalign works through a gradual, staged process, with each new set moving the treatment along.
Why Choose Dr. Vimal Patel for Invisalign in Moreno Valley?
- Strategic planning for optimized timeframes
- Detailed 3D scanning for tray fabrication
- Attentive follow-up care throughout the process
- Quality, custom-made clear aligners
Schedule a Consultation in Moreno Valley
Patients who want a subtle, consistent solution to a healthier bite and smile may find their solution in Invisalign. You can start with a consultation at Dr. Patel’s practice in Moreno Valley, where you can work with a leading provider of orthodontic care in the area.
Invisalign FAQs
How long does Invisalign take?
Most Invisalign treatments take between 6 and 18 months. The main factors will be the severity of alignment issues, patient age, and consistency of wearing your aligners. Moderate bite issues may take longer, with treatment possibly lasting 24+ months. When planning your treatment, Dr. Patel will let you know what timeline to expect based on your situation.
Will I need a retainer after treatment?
We recommend aligners for almost all patients following Invisalign treatment. Otherwise, your teeth can begin shifting back to their original positions. Usually, patients will start with a retainer worn both day and night while your teeth fully settle into their position. From there, you may still need a retainer, but most patients will only need to wear it at night.
Can adults get Invisalign?
While orthodontic treatment is most common for adolescents, adults can also have Invisalign. Many of our patients are in their 30s to 50s and have had successful treatment. One key difference is that the process may take longer for adults. As long as you have good oral health, age is rarely a factor that rules out candidates.
How do I clean my Invisalign trays?
Caring for your Invisalign trays is very straightforward, but it is an important part of the treatment. Without proper cleaning, bacteria can build up inside the trays, leading to oral health risks, a foul smell, and delayed treatment. Cleaning involves three steps:
- Rinse: Rinse away debris and saliva using lukewarm water.
- Brush: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the interior and exterior of the trays.
- Rinse Again: Rinse again with lukewarm water and place the trays back over your teeth.
How much does Invisalign cost in Moreno Valley?
Invisalign usually costs around $4,000 for a full treatment. The cost can vary, though, based on treatment complexity and duration. Insurance often covers orthodontic treatment for adolescents and children. However, plans often do not have coverage for adult patients, though plan details vary.
