There are a variety of orthodontic methods to straightening teeth. At McDowell Dental Group, we are proud to offer patients in Rydal, Jenkintown, and the surrounding area Invisalign®. Invisalign® is one of the most popular and effective methods of straightening teeth without the hassle and discomfort of traditional braces.
What Is Invisalign®?
Invisalign® is the invisible way to straighten teeth without braces. Invisalign® uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth, without metal or wires.
How Does Invisalign® Work?
Invisalign® uses 3-D computer imaging technology to depict the complete treatment plan from the initial position to the final desired position from which a series of custom-made, clear “aligners” are produced. Each “aligner” moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then is replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.
What Are The Primary Benefits Of Invisalign®?
Invisalign® is clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing. Invisalign® is removable. Unlike braces, you can eat and drink what you want during treatment. You can also brush and floss normally to maintain good oral hygiene. Invisalign® is comfortable. There are no metal brackets or wires as with braces to cause mouth irritation, and no metal or wires means you spend less time in the doctor’s chair getting adjustments. Our doctors can show you your own virtual treatment plan before you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.
What Are Aligners Made Of?
Aligners are made of clear, strong medical grade plastic that is virtually invisible when worn.
What Do Aligners Look Like?
Aligners are clear and look similar to tooth-whitening trays, but are custom-made for a better fit to move teeth. Some orthodontists and dentists have referred to them as “contact lenses for teeth.”
Is This A New Way To Straighten Teeth?
For years, orthodontists and dentists have used removable appliances for limited treatment. Today, with the application of computer technology and custom manufacturing, Invisalign® treats a broader range of cases with greater precision.
How Old Is The Company?
Align Technology, Inc., the company that manufactures Invisalign®, was founded in 1997. Since then, Align has manufactured over 10 million aligners and 250,000 patients have received treatment.
How Old Is This Technology?
In 1945, Dr. H.D. Kesling envisioned that one day modern technology would enable the use of a series of tooth positioners to produce the kinds of movements required for comprehensive orthodontic treatment. Technology has made this vision a reality. Using advanced computer technology, Align crafted Invisalign®, a series of customized clear appliances called “aligners.” Each aligner is worn sequentially by the patient to produce extensive tooth movements in both upper and lower arches.
How Many Patients Use Invisalign®
Worldwide, almost 250,000 patients have been treated with Invisalign®. The number grows daily.
Do Doctors Need Special Training In Order To Use Invisalign®?
While Invisalign® can be used with virtually any treatment philosophy, specific training is needed. All orthodontists and dentists interested in treating patients with Invisalign® must attend training before cases will be accepted from their office. Close to 30,000 orthodontists and dentists worldwide are certified to use Invisalign®.
How Invisalign® Works
Like brackets and arch wires are to braces, Invisalign® aligners move teeth through appropriate placement of controlled force on the teeth. The principal difference is that Invisalign® not only controls forces, but also controls the timing of the force application. At each stage, only certain teeth are allowed to move, and these movements are determined by the orthodontic treatment plan for that particular stage. This results in an efficient force delivery system.
Is Invisalign® FDA Approved?
Yes, the FDA has reviewed our application and in August 1998 determined that Invisalign® is exempt from 510(k) pre-market notification.
What Is Invisalign® Express?
Invisalign® Express is an orthodontic treatment designed to correct mild orthodontic problems such as minor crowding and spacing. Since it’s designed for mild problems only, treatment time is generally less than six months. If you live in or around Abington and are considering Invisalign® treatment, call us today!
How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?
How long Invisalign treatment takes varies from patient to patient. On average, patients have to wear Invisalign for at least 12 months, but it can take up to 18 months. There may be some cases where the duration of Invisalign treatment is shorter for some, while others have to wear it for longer.
Invisalign treatment can take longer if you have complex orthodontic issues, such as severe crowding or impacted teeth. Dr. McDowell can give you a more accurate estimate of how long you will need to wear Invisalign during your consultation with her.
What Are The Risks of Getting Invisalign?
Invisalign is usually a safe cosmetic procedure for most patients. But as with any kind of dental procedure, there are risks of Invisalign that you should be aware of.
These risks include the following:
- Discomfort and soreness - Similar to other types of orthodontic treatment, it is normal to experience some mild discomfort and soreness. These symptoms usually fade away on their own, but if they persist or feel like they are getting worse, contact Dr. McDowell immediately.
- Speech impediments - In some cases, patients may experience temporary changes in their speech, such as a lisp. This is common during the adjustment period. It will take some time to adapt to your Invisalign aligners, but with enough practice, you can return to normal speech.
- Tracking issues - In order for your Invisalign aligners to be effective, you must follow Dr. McDowell’s instructions. If you do not wear Invisalign for the recommended amount of time, tracking issues can occur. Tracking issues can cause the teeth to not move where they are supposed to be. This can increase the amount of time you have to wear Invisalign and may have an impact on the final results.
- Having an allergic reaction - This is a rare occurrence, but it is possible for patients to experience an allergic reaction to the materials used to make the aligners, such as the dyes. Some of the most common symptoms of an allergic reaction from Invisalign treatment can include irritation, swelling, and itchy gums. If you experience any of these or other unusual reactions, contact Dr. McDowell immediately.
- Dry mouth - Wearing Invisalign can potentially cause your mouth to be dry. This is because wearing the aligners can decrease your saliva flow. You can counteract this by keeping yourself hydrated and practicing good oral hygiene. Chewing sugar-free gum can help stimulate saliva production.
- They are not suitable for severe cases - Any patient that has a severe orthodontic issue or a skeletal discrepancy may not be suitable for Invisalign. Dr. McDowell will assess your dental health and the condition of your teeth to determine whether or not Invisalign is right for you.
Is Invisalign Covered by Insurance?
No, Invisalign is not usually covered by insurance. This is because Invisalign is considered to be a cosmetic procedure. However, it is possible that your policy covers Invisalign. You will need to contact your insurance provider to know what your policy covers before scheduling your appointment.
"Dr. Ashley and her staff make you feel very comfortable. Their compassionate, professional care fulfill your dental needs."
Contact Us Today
For more information about Invisalign in Rydal, Jenkintown, Horsham, Willow Grove, and Philadelphia, PA, please call 215.885.0555 or fill out our contact form today!
