
Many adults would like to achieve straighter teeth, but they balk at the idea of getting traditional braces. If that is true of you, we invite you to talk to us about an alternative orthodontic treatment: Invisalign® in Needham. This convenient and discreet option can address most types of dental alignment — without the need for unsightly, uncomfortable brackets and wires. Contact our friendly team today to learn more about Invisalign® or schedule your consultation. We look forward to serving you!
If we determine that you are a good candidate for Invisalign®, we will use advanced technology to capture a digital impression of your teeth. Invisalign® will use that impression to manufacture your custom-made clear aligners. You will wear each aligner for 20 – 22 hours each day for about two weeks before you graduate to the next. Each one will apply gentle pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them closer to their ideal positions. After you work your way through all of your aligners, we will provide you with a retainer to prevent your teeth from drifting back out of place.
Invisalign® can correct most types of mild to moderate dental misalignment, including common problems like crowded teeth, gaps between the teeth, and malocclusion (bite problems).
If your teeth are too close together (or you have extra teeth), you are at an increased risk of cavities, gum disease, and broken teeth. Invisalign®, along with possible extractions, can allow each of your teeth to have the space it needs to stay healthy and functional.
Large gaps between the teeth are often regarded as unsightly, and they may make it easier for the gums to suffer irritation. Invisalign® can gradually move the teeth closer together, resulting in a healthier, more attractive smile.
Overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite are some common bite problems that we see in our practice. They can cause TMD, mouth breathing, and a range of other issues. Invisalign®, along with other orthodontic accessories, is often able to correct a poor bite.
Some of the most outstanding benefits of Invisalign® include:
The cost of Invisalign® in Needham depends on the severity of your dental misalignment, how many aligners you will need, and a few other factors. We will provide you with a price estimate during your initial consultation. In some cases, insurance covers part of the cost of Invisalign®, and most patients qualify for low-interest financing. Although Invisalign® presents a significant investment, the benefits to your oral health and appearance make it a wise use of money!
Some of the primary factors that influence the price of Invisalign® include:
Mail-order and DIY clear aligners are more popular than ever. They typically cost around $2,000 for start to finish treatment, which in many cases makes them at least $1,000 less expensive than Invisalign®.
Do not let an attractive price tag stop you from considering what you are getting for your money. With DIY aligners, you do not get to enjoy the personal support of a professional dental team. With some systems, you might even have to take your own dental impressions, and even a small error while doing so could lead to unsatisfactory treatment results.
With Invisalign®, on the other hand, you get to take advantage of a tried-and-true clear aligner treatment. You will have the support of a local dental team during every stage of your orthodontic journey. Plus, the aligners are made out of a patented material that is designed both for comfort and precise tooth movements (as opposed to the basic plastic used in most DIY treatments).
Some dental insurance policies include a lifetime orthodontic maximum, which may or may not be applicable to Invisalign® in Needham. Our team will verify your benefits and let you know if you can use them to lower your out-of-pocket costs for your treatment. We will also be happy to file claims on your behalf. If your insurance does not cover Invisalign®, you might choose to use your FSA or HSA to pay for part or all of it.
As your Invisalign® dentist in Needham, we offer a few provisions that may make it easier for you to manage the cost of your treatment:
The team at Gillis Dental is ready to help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can help you navigate the financial aspect of your care.
Invisalign® in Needham is one of the most convenient ways to straighten teeth. If you are ready to take advantage of this treatment, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with us. However, if you want more information before you visit us, we understand. Below, you will find succinct answers to some frequently asked questions about Invisalign®. If you would like further explanation on anything you see here, give us a call. Our team looks forward to speaking with you.
On average, it takes about 12 months for Invisalign® to complete its work. However, your case could require significantly more or less time — it depends on your specific circumstances. Some patients, particularly those with very mild misalignment, need to wear Invisalign® for just 6 months. Other individuals require treatment that spans for 18 months or longer. Although 18 months may seem like a long time, it is still shorter than the length of time you might have to spend with traditional metal braces, which can take anywhere from 18 to 36 months.
Invisalign® aligners are constructed out of a high-quality, patented plastic material. It is smooth, thin, and designed for precise tooth movements. It has no metal parts to irritate the soft tissues in your mouth, and the edges of aligners are smoothed out to rest easily against the gums. Therefore, you can expect Invisalign® to be as comfortable as possible.
However, keep in mind that orthodontic treatment uses pressure to move the teeth. Naturally, this can cause some soreness, particularly when you switch to a new aligner. You can minimize discomfort by taking pain relievers, sipping on cool water, and transitioning to a new aligner at night (so you can sleep through the initial part of the adjustment period).
Once you complete your series of aligners, we will verify your results. Then, your cosmetic dentist in Needham will provide you with a retainer, a small oral appliance that is designed to prevent your teeth from drifting back out of place. At first, you should wear the retainer full-time (20 – 22 hours each day). Later, you might be able to progress to using it only at night.
It is almost impossible to overstate the importance of using your retainer. Without it, your teeth can quickly shift out of place, undoing your hard work with Invisalign®.
If the damage is minor (for example, if you notice some hairline cracks), you might be able to continue wearing your aligner. You will just have to take extra care when you are taking it in and out of your mouth. If the damage is more severe, do not attempt DIY repairs. Instead, give our office a call. We might advise you to wear a previous aligner until we can order a replacement for the one that is no longer functional. It is also possible that we will give you the go ahead to move on to your next aligner a few days early.