As teeth move into their final positions, patients switch to new aligners every 2 weeks. Some dental insurance plans cover some or all of the cost of masshealth invisalign in Boston.
Wearing the retainers correctly is key to maintaining your new, straight smile. If you do not, your teeth may return to their original position.
How does invisalign work?
Invisalign trays can be custom-made for each patient using a 3D scan. They’re nearly transparent and fit your teeth and gumline perfectly, and are removable when you eat or drink. To achieve the best results they should be worn for 20-22 hours each day, and replaced every one to 2 weeks with the next in the series.
Your Invisalign treatment starts with a consultation to determine the best course of action for you. They use the latest technology like 3D imaging to get a thorough look at your dental landscape and map out a step-by-step guide to your dream smile.
You will also receive a set clear aligners which you can exchange at your regular dental appointments. Each set is slightly different from the previous one, and gradually shifts your teeth into their final positions.
Invisalign has a feature called IPR, or interproximal reduction (IPR), which helps guide the movement of your teeth. This is done by adding small white fillings to the front teeth, which the trays will ‘lock’ into and push against in order to help tooth movement.
What are the advantages of invisalign aligners?
Invisalign can correct a wide range dental misalignment concerns, including underbites, overbites, crooked and other teeth. The process involves digital impressions taken of the teeth to create an individual treatment plan. The plan shows the gradual movement of a patient’s teeth. A series of custom-made aligners are then fabricated based on the treatment plan.
The aligners can be removed, allowing patients to eat or drink as normal. They must be worn 20-22 hours a day and removed prior to brushing and flossing. Patients will have to floss and brush their teeth more frequently, but this is a small cost to pay for healthier, straighter teeth.
Invisalign also helps improve chewing efficiency which can lead better digestion and overall well-being. It can also reduce the likelihood that a teeth-grinding habit, called bruxism, will develop. This condition can cause headaches and wear down the enamel on the teeth, which can lead to cavities and other dental issues. Straighter teeth also improve the quality of your sleep.
How long will it take invisalign treatment to work?
Invisalign’s time to work depends on your orthodontist and the customized treatment plan. Your dentist will create a treatment plan using complex 3D images of your mouth, then your aligners are custom made. You will need to change your aligners every two weeks and visit your doctor once a month for a checkup.
Compliance is the biggest factor in determining how long Invisalign will take. If you don’t wear the aligners as much as your orthodontist prescribes, it can extend your treatment time significantly. Wear them 24 hours a day, except when you are eating and brushing your teeth.
The complexity of your case is another factor. Invisalign takes longer to work if you have a severe crowding. Gaps between teeth can also make the treatment process longer, as these require more force to close. If you have large gaps, your orthodontist will likely recommend traditional braces or headgear. If you have a severe misalignment it may be necessary for you to undergo additional treatment such as jaw surgery.
How much will invisalign cost?
The cost of Invisalign varies depending on your insurance, your provider, and the complexity of your case. Invisalign’s average cost is $5,000. Prices vary by location and dentist.
It is important to consult a trained Invisalign provider. They have specialized training in treating complex issues, such as crowding and misalignment. They will be able determine if Invisalign would be the right choice for you or whether you’d be better off with traditional metal brackets.
During your initial Invisalign consultation, your orthodontist will evaluate your mouth for crowded teeth, gaps between teeth and an overbite. They will take photos and bite impressions of your teeth to send to Invisalign to create your customized aligners.
Many orthodontists and dentists offer monthly payment plans that are affordable to make Invisalign accessible. You may also be able to use your FSA or HSA to pay for Invisalign with tax-free dollars. For those without insurance, it is often possible to get 0% interest financing or auto-draft payments, which can break up the total cost into small, affordable monthly payments.