Invisalign Dentist – Canarsie
Straighten your teeth the smart way with INVISALIGN.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign, an orthodontic treatment approved by the FDA, is the virtually invisible method to straighten your teeth without conventional metal braces. With Invisalign, a custom-molded set of transparent, removable aligners will progressively reposition your teeth. You can simply remove the aligners before eating, brushing, flossing, or special occasions. This technology is more comfortable and convenient than traditional braces. Patients do not experience the mouth abrasions caused by metal and wires.
Invisalign is probably the most popular brand name when it comes to clear aligners. In fact, many people simply say “Invisalign” to refer to any clear aligner, no matter the brand.
Invisalign’s aligners are made by Align Technology, from their patented SmartTrack. SmartTrack aligners are FDA-approved and BPA and BPS-free. They are also free from gluten and latex. Invisalign is currently the only brand to use SmartTrack, known for offering a secure and comfortable fit.
Before starting treatment with Invisalign, you will meet with an Invisalign certified dentist. This dentist doesn’t have to have orthodontic training, but is a licensed dentist and must have registered as an Invisalign provider. To be registered with Invisalign they must pass a training course that includes practical experience.
Your Invisalign dentist will have either a VIP, silver, platinum, diamond, or plus status, depending on the number of patients they’ve treated with clear aligners.
Our goal is to identify underlying oral issues and support our patients in preventing future dental problems.
How Much Does it Cost?
The cost of Invisalign treatment is comparable to that of traditional braces – ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 (based on the U.S. national average). However, only your dentist can determine the actual cost of treatment because it will be based on your specific needs, including how extensive your dental problems are, how long your treatment will last, etc.
Payment options or financing may be available through your dentist’s office. If your dentist doesn’t offer financing, you may be able to enlist the services of a third-party financing company like CareCredit or Capital One.
Additionally, orthodontic coverage through a dental insurance plan may cover Invisalign in the same manner that traditional orthodontic treatments are covered. Consult your dental insurance policy to determine what orthodontic benefits you may qualify for.
Compared with Traditional Orthodontics
Invisalign may not be appropriate for certain cases of misalignment or complex bite problems. Fixed orthodontic appliances (traditional wire and bracket braces) can be used for complex malocclusions.
Though not as aesthetically appealing as clear aligners, today’s traditional braces have been improved so they are smaller, less visible, and more efficient. These newer wire-and-bracket braces also help to correct misalignment much faster than before.
Only a dentist can determine which treatment option might be right for you. In addition, an orthodontic specialist (orthodontist) can advise you about orthodontic treatment alternatives. If Invisalign is not appropriate, traditional orthodontics can still be used for such conditions as:
- Crowding and spacing greater than five millimeters.
- Skeletal malocclusions.
- Discrepancies involving centric-relation/centric-occlusion (how the upper and lower jaw joints and jaw muscles close together).
- Teeth that are severely rotated.
- Open bites in the front and back of the mouth that need to be closed.
- Teeth that are severely tipped.
- Upper or lower jaws with multiple missing teeth.
Invisalign Certification
Not all dentists or orthodontic specialists use Invisalign. Align Technologies specially trains dentists to use the aligners. As of April 2007, an estimated 20,000 general dentists in the United States had trained in how to prescribe Invisalign and become certified by Align Technologies to prescribe the aligners to their patients.
However, it is important to understand that a certified Invisalign dentist may not necessarily be an orthodontist. Being an orthodontist is not a prerequisite for certification.
How Does It Work?
First, we use 3-D computer imaging to design a comprehensive treatment plan. This allows you to preview the final positioning of your teeth before you start treatment. Yes, you will see your future smile before treatment begins.
Then a lab will create a series of aligners to reposition your teeth over one to two years. You’ll change aligners every two weeks until your smile is straight and beautiful.
Transparent, removable, no-hassle orthodontia – now that should put a smile on your face! We invite you to schedule an appointment with us today.
