The idea of braces can be troublesome for many, especially teens and young adults who may feel self-conscious. Braces can be unsightly and even more uncomfortable, changing how wearers perceive themselves and sometimes affecting activities and relationships. On top of this, those with traditional metal braces must avoid certain foods that can get caught in the hardware. Invisalign is the perfect way to get straighter teeth without the appearance or harsh feelings of metal braces. If you or your child is in need of braces, there’s no need to wait any longer. Invisalign is more expensive than regular braces, but many customers say the higher costs are worth the benefits. Read on to learn more about Invisalign.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign braces are virtually invisible. Custom-molded, clear plastic aligners are made to fit perfectly in your mouth and are completely clear, so nobody will be able to tell you are wearing them but you. The plastic mold is both smooth and comfortable, and the aligners connect to tiny clear plastic brackets to lock them in place. Because Invisalign braces can be removed, they come with a certain level of freedom compared to traditional braces, including the ability to eat any food you want.
Highlights:
- Clear, virtually invisible molds
- Smooth and comfortable to wear
- Connect to brackets to stay in place
The Process
Talking to a provider is the first step to a straighter, more beautiful smile. Any Invisalign-trained orthodontist will give you a consultation and establish whether Invisalign is right for you. From there, your doctor will devise a customized treatment plan based on X-rays, pictures, and impressions of your mouth. From there, a digital image of your mouth will be rendered so that the Invisalign lab can create your custom-molded braces. You’ll need to continue the process every couple weeks as your teeth shift.
Highlights:
- Get a free consult
- Get an impression made
- Get your mold made from a digital image
Advantages of Invisalign
Invisalign braces can treat a variety of mouth conditions including overbite, crowding, crossbite, and spacing just like traditional braces can. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign braces can be removed every time you eat, and also when you floss, so no unique flossing techniques are required either. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, Invisalign is a lot more comfortable than traditional braces but straightens teeth just the same. Best of all, teens and adults can use them, so they are right for anyone.
Highlights:
- Suitable for teens and adult
- More comfortable than traditional braces
- Invisalign is removable
Invisalign Cost
Invisalign can cost up to $10,000 for the most extensive treatment, but only without insurance. Even then, you can choose to make monthly payments that will reduce the upfront cost to an affordable monthly payment over the course of many months. Insurance plans can cover up to $3,500, and generally, most dental insurance will cover Invisalign. Flexible spending may also be used, up to $2,500, which will also help you to reduce the cost of Invisalign braces.
Highlights:
- Most insurance will cover it
- Make monthly payments
- Use flexible spending
Conclusion
Invisalign is the ideal solution for teens and adults apprehensive about wearing braces, allowing them to retain their confidence as they improve their smile. Removable and comfortable, wearing braces has never felt this good before.