Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are the clear choice for many orthodontic cases in Nanaimo, Parksville, and surrounding areas.
Braces were due for a revamp, and did they ever get it in the form of Invisalign. Invisalign aligners are a modern option for straightening teeth or solving bite issues. At Nanaimo Smiles, we appreciate that Invisalign combines advanced technology with comfort and convenience, allowing us to deliver precise, personalized treatment with minimal disruption to your daily life. Patients love Invisalign for its clear, nearly invisible aligners that make orthodontic treatment discreet and comfortable.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to gradually straighten teeth. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, removable, and designed to be worn over the teeth. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks before being replaced with the next in the series, gently shifting the teeth into their desired positions. This system is designed to address a range of dental issues, including misalignment, crowding, and gaps, while offering a more discreet and flexible alternative to traditional braces.
How does Invisalign work?
At our dental office, we offer Invisalign as a cutting-edge solution for straightening teeth. The process begins with a thorough consultation where we evaluate your suitability for Invisalign. If you’re a good candidate, we use our advanced 3D intraoral scanner to create a detailed digital model of your teeth and develop a customized treatment plan. Based on this plan, we craft a series of clear, removable aligners tailored specifically to your needs. You’ll actually be able to digitally see how your smile will respond to the treatment prior to wearing your first aligner thanks to the incredible iTero technology.
You’ll wear each set of aligners for about one to two weeks, keeping them in for 20-22 hours a day and removing them only for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. Throughout your treatment, we schedule regular check-ups to monitor your progress and provide you with new aligners as needed. Once you’ve completed the aligner series and your teeth are in their ideal positions, we recommend a retainer to help maintain your new smile.
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What are the benefits of Invisalign compared to traditional braces?
Invisalign offers numerous benefits compared to traditional metal braces, making it a highly appealing choice for many. The aligners are clear and virtually invisible, providing a discreet way to straighten your teeth without drawing attention. Their smooth plastic design enhances comfort by avoiding the irritation often associated with metal brackets and wires. Invisalign aligners are removable, which simplifies oral hygiene and allows you to enjoy all your favourite foods without restriction. With fewer office visits needed for adjustments and the convenience of receiving multiple aligners at once, Invisalign offers a streamlined treatment process. The use of advanced digital technology ensures precise, predictable results, and many patients find that Invisalign can achieve their desired smile faster than traditional braces.
Am I a good Invisalign candidate?
Invisalign can address a wide range of dental issues, but its effectiveness depends on the complexity of your specific case. For many patients with mild to moderate concerns, such as crooked teeth, gaps, or some bite problems, Invisalign can achieve results comparable to traditional braces. However, for more complex issues, such as severe misalignment, significant bite discrepancies, or large gaps, traditional braces may sometimes offer more precise adjustments and greater force. During your initial consultation, we will assess your dental needs and recommend the most suitable treatment option for you. While Invisalign has advanced significantly and can be highly effective for many cases, the choice between Invisalign and traditional braces will be based on the specific details of your dental issues and treatment goals.
How long does it take to see results from Invisalign?
You can usually start seeing noticeable results from Invisalign within a few weeks of beginning treatment. The exact timeline varies depending on the complexity of your case and the specific issues being addressed. Most patients observe gradual changes as they progress through the series of aligners, with more significant improvements typically becoming visible within a few months. For optimal results, it’s important to wear your aligners as prescribed and attend regular dental check-ups to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments.
Are Invisalign aligners painful or uncomfortable?
Invisalign aligners are designed to be comfortable and minimally invasive, but some people may experience mild discomfort or pressure, especially when starting a new set of aligners. This sensation usually occurs because the aligners are applying gentle, consistent pressure to shift your teeth into their desired positions. The discomfort is typically brief and tends to lessen as you get used to wearing the aligners. Unlike traditional braces, which can cause irritation to the gums and cheeks due to metal brackets and wires, Invisalign aligners are made from smooth plastic that is less likely to cause irritation. Additionally, because they are removable, you can take them out for eating and oral hygiene, which can help avoid some of the discomfort associated with fixed appliances. Remember, the more diligently you wear your aligners, the more comfortable they will be!
How often do I need to visit the dentist during Invisalign treatment?
During your Invisalign treatment, we typically schedule visits every six to eight weeks to monitor your progress and ensure everything is proceeding as planned. These regular check-ups are crucial for evaluating how well your teeth are shifting and making any necessary adjustments to your treatment. At each appointment, we’ll review your progress, provide you with the next sets of aligners, and address any questions or concerns you may have. This schedule generally makes treatment more convenient compared to traditional braces, which require more frequent adjustments.
Can I eat and drink normally with Invisalign?
Yes, this is one of the top benefits of choosing to straighten your smile with Invisalign. With Invisalign, you can eat and drink normally, but aligners should be removed when you eat or drink anything other than water. This means you can enjoy your favourite foods without restrictions, as you simply take out the aligners before meals. After eating or drinking, it’s important to brush and floss your teeth and clean the aligners before putting them back in to maintain optimal oral hygiene and prevent staining. Drinking water while wearing the aligners is fine, but you should avoid beverages that can stain the aligners or cause damage, such as coffee or soda. Following these guidelines helps ensure that your treatment progresses smoothly and that your aligners remain in good condition.
How do I clean and care for my Invisalign aligners?
To keep your Invisalign aligners in top condition, rinse them with lukewarm water each time you remove them, and gently brush them daily with a soft toothbrush and clear, mild soap—avoid toothpaste as it can scratch the surface, leaving opportunity for bacterial growth. Regularly soak the aligners in a cleaning solution designed for Invisalign or a mixture of water and non-alcoholic mouthwash to remove bacteria and keep them fresh. Always use lukewarm water for cleaning, as extremely hot water may warp the aligners. Before reinserting the aligners, brush and floss your teeth to prevent food particles and bacteria from getting trapped. Store your aligners in their provided case when not in use to protect them, and avoid drinking beverages that can stain the aligners, such as coffee or tea, while wearing them. Inspect the aligners daily for damage or buildup and be sure to contact us if you notice any issues.
Is Invisalign covered by insurance?
Invisalign may be covered by dental insurance, but coverage varies by plan. Many plans offer partial coverage for orthodontic treatments, including Invisalign, though specifics can differ. To find out your exact coverage, please check with your insurance provider. We can assist with insurance verification and discuss financing options to help manage costs.
Invisalign in Nanaimo, BC
Invisalign is a modern and discreet alternative to traditional braces. Invisalign aligners provide a comfortable, clear, and convenient way to straighten teeth and address bite issues. Combining advanced technology with minimal impact on your daily life, Invisalign in Nanaimo, BC ensures precise, personalized treatment. For your complimentary Invisalign consultation, contact our team today.