Invisalign Dentist in Bowie, MD
Dental patients in Bowie, MD, have a new option for straightening their teeth: Invisalign. This innovative treatment involves wearing clear plastic braces that are nearly invisible to the naked eye. Invisalign is an excellent choice for people who want to have beautiful straight teeth without dealing with the hassles of braces. If you are considering Invisalign, be sure to contact us at 301-464-2323 to schedule a consultation.
What to Expect With Orthodontic Treatment
Many people turn to orthodontic treatments such as braces or Invisalign to achieve an aesthetically pleasing smile. These methods offer patients the opportunity to improve their smiles through these proven effective treatments, which can straighten crooked teeth and fix problems like overcrowding and gaps between teeth.
To begin Invisalign, we will start with a consultation to determine if this is the right treatment plan for you. We will then determine the cost and timeframe based on the severity of your case. From here, we will be able to begin the treatment process. Treatment begins with taking impressions of your teeth to create your aligner trays in our lab. You will wear these aligners for about two weeks and receive new ones to continue shifting your teeth.
Invisalign Treatment vs. Traditional Braces
Invisalign Treatment
Invisalign is a clear, removable dental appliance that can straighten teeth without the metal brackets and wires of braces. It is made of a series of comfortable aligners that are worn on the teeth for 23 hours per day for 6-18 months. Invisalign treatment time and cost vary depending on your unique needs, but treatment is usually completed in just 12 months. Invisalign allows you the freedom to eat what you want and go about your life with little to no interruptions. Invisalign and braces are very comparable in costs, so they have become the popular choice among many of our patients.
Traditional Braces
Traditional braces are made from metal or ceramic brackets that attach to the teeth with wires that run through each bracket. They work by applying pressure against your teeth with elastic tension rods until they gradually slide over each tooth to close gaps and straighten them out. Total treatment time can take anywhere from 2-5 years, depending on the severity of your case. Metal braces can cause more discomfort due to the roughness of the brackets rubbing against their mouths. They also do not allow you the freedom to eat what they want due to food getting stuck in the brackets and wires.
Invisalign FAQs
Is Invisalign painful?
You may feel temporary discomfort when you begin wearing your aligners. This is due to them initiating the shifting of your teeth into their correct position. This is something over-the-counter medication can alleviate.
Do I need to change any of my oral hygiene habits?
With Invisalign, we recommend brushing your teeth each time after eating to have good oral health. This is to prevent bacteria and food particles from becoming trapped on your teeth under the aligner. We also encourage daily cleaning of your aligner trays with toothpaste and lukewarm water.
Will I need a retainer after completing treatment?
We recommend that anybody who has received any sort of orthodontic treatment wear a retainer to maintain their beautiful smile. This is to prevent your teeth from shifting again and protecting the investment you just made. Every case will vary. Whether you need a permanent or removable retainer will be left up to your orthodontist.
How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost of Invisalign will vary by patient. It depends on several factors, including your case’s severity and how many aligners you will require. The price is usually the same as traditional braces. It is best to schedule a consultation to get an accurate quote for your treatment.
Will insurance cover the cost of Invisalign?
This will depend on your insurance provider and how much they choose to cover. Typically, Invisalign is covered just the same as traditional braces. It is best to consult with your insurance provider and dentist to get an accurate quote.
Contact Us For a Consultation
If you live in Bowie, MD, and are thinking about getting Invisalign to straighten your smile, please contact our office at 301-464-2323 to schedule a complimentary consultation. We will be happy to answer any questions that you have and help determine if this treatment is proper for you. Our team of orthodontists is committed to providing the highest quality care available to our Bowie patients.