Dr. Justin Bonaventure answers the top 10 most frequently asked questions about Invisalign Aligners

We would all love great looking teeth! But very few people are lucky enough to have perfect teeth and this can have a damaging effect on their confidence or self-esteem.

Many avoid treatment for crooked smiles or crowded teeth because of the stigma of traditional braces, whether that’s down to the irritation they can often cause or simply because of how they look.

Today there are various alternatives to traditional braces such as Invisalign. But what is Invisalign? And how does Invisalign work?

To help, our very own Dr Justin Bonaventure will answer the 10 most frequently asked questions we often get asked about Invisalign.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a very popular and effective straight teeth brace that was developed back in 1997 and is suitable for adults and teenagers. It is used to straighten teeth and can also improve overbites, underbites, crowded or gappy teeth and some bite issues. Invisalign is a set of clear (practically invisible), removable plastic trays that you snap onto your teeth. It means no more metal brackets or wires. The trays are made from a type of plastic which is also free from BPA, BPs, latex and gluten.  

How does Invisalign straighten your teeth?

We create a unique digital treatment plan for you which maps out where your teeth will move. Then each Invisalign tray will apply general pressure to your teeth which gradually shifts your teeth until you have the desired result.

What is the Invisalign process?

The process begins with a visit to us for a full mouth assessment. We offer FREE consultations where you can sit down and discuss your goals and we will examine your teeth and bite using a state-of-the-art 3D CADCAM which scans your teeth. From there once you approve the plan the aligners are custom-made in the laboratory and within a fortnight, you’ll be ready to pop your first set of aligners in. 

How long does the procedure take?

Each set of trays are worn for 2 weeks, and you pop in to see us at the dental office every 8 weeks for a check-up. The aligners should be worn for at least 20 to 22 hours a day just taking them out to eat and to clean your teeth. Total treatment time can be anything from as little as 6 to 9 months or if for more severe treatment between 12 to 18 months on average, depending on individual cases.

Is it painful?

The level of discomfort is minimal. Honestly! Tooth movement can always cause a little discomfort, especially during the first few days when you change the aligner, but that does subside. Because the aligners are made from smooth plastic, they are much more comfortable than brackets and wires in your mouth.

Can I eat and drink normally?

The best bit about Invisalign is that you remove the trays before eating and drinking (except water), so the aligners aren’t stained or damaged. We do suggest steering clear of hard foods such as raw carrots or toffee which could push your teeth out of alignment, but you can eat and drink normally. The trays should be rinsed and brushed gently to clean, and you should just generally maintain good oral hygiene.

What is it like wearing the trays initially?

You may have a little trouble adapting to them at first and you may feel a dull ache for a day or two with each new tray as your jaw and teeth adjust. Some patients take a few days to adjust talking with their new Invisalign and may have a lisp initially, but the mouth gradually adapts.

What happens when you’ve finished the treatment?

So once your time is up, we’ll remove the aligners and re-scan your teeth. We usually recommend a clear removable retainer to continue with during the night or in some cases a fixed retainer which fits behind the front teeth to keep them aligned. 

How much does Invisalign cost?

The all-important question! This will depend on treatment time and severity of the realignment or bite issue. But on average the cost is similar to most other brace treatments, so starting from the $3,000 mark upwards. All materials are included so there’s no hidden costs.  We also offer finance options and don’t forget we’ll give you a FREE no obligation consultation where we can discuss the treatment plan and payment options. 

Pros and Cons of Invisalign.

The Pros: They are removable! They are practically invisible! They are highly effective! You can even take the aligners out for a special event!

Invisalign is a huge breakthrough in how we, as dentists, help patients achieve their best smile. We are so impressed by Invisalign we are an elite provider – and the only one in Baton Rouge.

The Cons:  As with any brace, you’ll need to persevere to achieve the desired result. And you do need to wear them pretty much 24/7 so you need to be committed to wearing them every day. Plus, you need to come and see us regularly! Although we are a friendly bunch, so perhaps that should be in Pro’s column

If you’d like more information or have a question we haven’t covered please visit our Invisalign page here where you can also download our free Straight Teeth guide. Or get in touch with us at the dental office – we’ll be happy to help.