WHAT IS INVISALIGN?

Invisalign is a type of orthodontic treatment that utilizes clear, removable aligners to straighten and move teeth. With cutting edge technology and streamlined digital platforms, Invisalign provides a comprehensive approach to treating patients of all ages.

WHY INVISALIGN VS. TRADITIONAL BRACES?

CLEAR

Aligners are virtually invisible so no one can tell you have them in

REMOVABLE 

You can eat and drink whatever, brush and floss like normal, and engage in all your regular sports and activities

FASTER

Utilizes advanced 3D technology to predictably move teeth with less chairside time

LIFE WITH INVISALIGN…

  • Aligners should be worn 20-22 hours per day. Remove them before eating, drinking, and oral care
  • Aligners should be cleaned prior to each insertion
  • Each set of aligners is worn for 1-2 weeks, depending on where you are in your treatment
  • You will be seen in our office every 2-3 months to check on progress and to receive your next aligners
  • Attachments or “bumps” are placed on the front side of some teeth using a tooth colored composite material to help secure the aligners and provide the desired movements. These are all polished off at the end of treatment and you’ll never know they were there.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

HOW DO I KEEP MY ALIGNERS CLEAN?

Keep your aligners clean by utitlizing the different options below:

  • Brush aligners with toothbrush and toothpaste and rinse with water
  • Soak in Invisalign Cleaning Crystals
  • Over-the-counter denture cleaning tablets (i.e. Polident, Efferedent, etc.)
  • 1:1 Hydrogen Peroxide and water mixture, soak for 10 minutes

WILL TREATMENT BE PAINFUL?

Most patients will experience some soreness throughout treatment, typically during the first few days of a new set of aligners. This soreness gradually subsides after a few days. Ibuprofen/Advil or Tylenol can be taken for any temporary discomfort. Please call us if soreness persists for an extended period of time.

WILL THE ALIGNERS AFFECT MY SPEECH?

You may experience a temporary lisp or change in speech for the first few days of treatment. The tongue needs to get used to the new aligner material and positions of your teeth. As your tongue adapts, you will notice these speech changes disappear in a short amount of time.

WHAT BEVERAGES CAN I DRINK WITH MY ALIGNERS?

We recommend only clear liquids while wearing your aligners. You should avoid HOT and DARK liquids. These can cause warping and staining of the aligners and teeth. If you do have dark liquids with your aligners, remove and clean ASAP.

WHAT IF I LOSE OR BREAK AN ALIGNER?

Contact us immediately. We will decide whether to have you wear your previous aligner or start the next aligner. Replacement aligners can be ordered (if needed).

WHAT IF I LOSE OR BREAK AN ATTACHMENT OR “BUMP”?

Contact us immediately. We will decide whether you need to be seen right away for a new attachment.

DOES MY INSURANCE COVER INVISALIGN?

  • Invisalign is considered an orthodontic benefit
  • Only about 40% of patients who have dental insurance will have orthodontic coverage
  • Coverage is often determined by age
  • Liftetime orthodontic maximum could be per individual or family

Our office will look into your insurance prior to your Invisalign consult and we will meet with you after your appointment to discuss cost.

HOW DO I BEGIN THE PROCESS?

We begin by seeing you in our office for a free Invisalign consult with Dr Liberko. At this time we will determine if you are a candidate and the approximate amount of time needed for your case. You will then meet with our insurance coordinator to get an estimate of cost and discuss coverage. If you want to proceed then you will schedule your first appointment which we refer to as the “records” appointment.