Seven Questions To Ask Your Dentist About Invisalign

If you live with crooked teeth, you may have considered orthodontics in the past. However, the appearance of metal braces does not sound appealing. Now, individuals can get a better smile in less time with Invisalign®. This system uses a series of removable aligners to gradually shift your teeth. Invisalign has quickly become one of the most preferred teeth-straightening options for adults and teenagers alike.

But is Invisalign safe, and how do aligners work? At MINT dentistry, we understand you may have some questions before making a decision about treatment. To make sure nothing is overlooked, our medical professionals put together some questions you can ask when scheduling an Invisalign appointment in Dallas and Houston, TX. Read the following information and give us a call to schedule an appointment when you feel ready.

1. Is Invisalign safe?

Invisalign is safe for both adolescents and adults who want a straighter smile without braces. They can be worn at work and when participating in everyday activities. Patients should remove their aligners during high-impact sports, like boxing or wrestling, especially if they need to wear a mouth guard while competing. While this decision varies among families, some parents also choose not to give their young children removable aligners because they are more likely to lose or damage them.

2. How do aligners work?

Unlike traditional braces that use a wire to move teeth into proper alignment, Invisalign uses invisible aligners. These are custom made using the digital impressions we take at MINT dentistry. Aligners should be worn for 20 – 22 hours each day to be effective. Over time, patients move on to the next set of aligners. Patients should schedule follow-up appointments every 4 – 6 weeks to make sure we are on track to meet their goals.

3. What issues can be treated with Invisalign?

There are a number of common problems Invisalign can fix. This includes issues like underbite and overbite. Invisalign can also successfully straighten crooked teeth and close small gaps in your smile. When it comes to major tooth movement or complex orthodontic treatment, patients may require a more traditional method, like braces.

4. Can I eat with Invisalign?

The most important thing to remember about eating with Invisalign is that you must remove your aligners before you eat. This is because food can damage the material and slow the straightening process. The great news is that patients are not limited to what they eat during Invisalign treatment. MINT dentistry recommends brushing and flossing your teeth after every meal to achieve the best results.

5. What can I drink while wearing Invisalign?

Water is the only approved beverage patients can drink while wearing Invisalign aligners. This is because hot drinks, like coffee and tea, can stain and warp the aligners. Not only that, but sugary drinks, such as juice and soda, may also seep into the small space between your teeth and the aligners. This can cause issues like dental decay or cavities. For these reasons and more, the dentists at MINT dentistry highly recommend taking out the aligners before drinking most beverages.

6. How long is Invisalign treatment?

Many of our patients want to know – how long is Invisalign treatment? Most individuals should expect to wear Invisalign aligners for about one year. Sometimes, patients require more time, especially if their aligners are not worn as directed. Your orthodontist in Dallas and Houston, TX, is happy to discuss your progress during regular appointments and follow-up visits.

7. How much does Invisalign cost?

In many cases, Invisalign treatment may be covered in part by dental insurance. MINT dentistry is happy to confirm your benefits and calculate any personal costs. We also accept many payment methods for out-of-pocket costs. During your consultation, our support staff will go out of our way to make sure your treatment is as accessible and affordable as possible.

Enjoy a straighter, healthier smile

So, is Invisalign safe, and how do aligners work? And how long is Invisalign treatment? We understand aligners can be stressful, especially if patients have no experience with orthodontics. No matter what procedure you opt for, it is important to make sure you understand how it works. MINT dentistry is here to make your treatment as successful as possible. Once you have your answers, you should feel more comfortable moving forward.

Establishing lasting relationships with patients is important to MINT dentistry in Dallas and Houston, TX. Our services include everything from routine cleaning and examinations to innovative treatments like veneers and dental implants. Because we believe all families should have beautiful smiles, we also offer affordably priced treatments and easy payment plans. Experience the difference by contacting a member of our team today for a consultation.