Back to School with Invisalign®

When is a good time to get Invisalign?

Fall is here and school is in session for nearly all students in the area. Whether your kids attend class in-person, join class virtually school, or are going back to school yourself, the start of school is a great time to assess those bright smiles, consider Invisalign to instill confidence, and discuss Invisalign with Dr. Griffith, an Invisalign-trained provider. The team at Grand Corner Dental treats your overall oral health to help you achieve the smile you always wanted.

Within six months of the first tooth erupting, we want to see your kiddos, then at least once a year after that. About the time permanent teeth erupt, many parents begin considering braces for their kids. Some teens want to have teeth realigned but avoid it because they don’t like the look of traditional braces. Invisalign, with its clear aligners, is an excellent solution when patients want a better smile but don’t want to wear traditional braces. Many patients have questions about Invisalign so we answer some of the common questions below.

How does Invisalign work?

The powerful but comfortable Invisalign process starts with your consultation with Dr. Griffith. After determining if Invisalign is right for you, we use an impression system to map out your custom treatment plan. After we create your treatment plan, you’ll visit our office so we can fit your aligners. Throughout treatment, you’ll have regular check-ins with Dr. Griffith as you progress through your custom-made aligners to ensure the treatment plan is maintained and make any adjustments.

What can Invisalign treat?

Invisalign can treat overbites, underbites, crowding, crossbites, open bites, and more. Contact us to schedule an appointment with Dr. Griffith to discuss treatment plans.

How do I eat, drink, brush, and floss with Invisalign?

Your aligners are virtually invisible and can be discretely removed and stored in a convenient case. Invisalign aligners are removable, allowing you to eat, drink, brush, and floss as usual. You won’t have to thread floss around wires, which means fewer bacteria traps, so in some ways, Invisalign allows you to maintain a healthier smile while aligning your teeth. Remove trays before eating or drinking anything except water. And, you won’t have to worry about breaking brackets on popcorn kernels!

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

Wearing your aligners is crucial and helps you progress through Invisalign treatment. The length of treatment varies by person. Some patients can complete treatment in as few as six months, but individual needs will determine the actual time. Most people see a noticeable difference in just weeks. When using Invisalign aligners, patients avoid emergency visits for broken wires and brackets that traditional braces often require.

Will I still need a retainer after Invisalign?

After treatment, you’ll be fitted with an advanced clear retainer to maintain your new smile. Most people wear their retainers at night, but Dr. Griffith will instruct you on how and when to wear your retainer.

How old are most people when they start Invisalign?

Our first evaluation of your bite/occlusion and teeth alignment occurs when patients turn seven years old. During that evaluation, we will discuss treatment options for your case. We encourage patients to consider Invisalign when they feel comfortable taking care of and handling their aligner trays. Teens, young adults, and adults can all benefit from the Invisalign process.

How much does Invisalign cost?

The cost for Invisalign is in line with traditional braces, but your needs and treatment plan will determine the actual cost. Dental insurance usually covers Invisalign like other braces, and paying with pre-tax dollars from your HSA is another option. In addition, we offer options for convenient monthly payment plans.

Are there other benefits of Invisalign?

Not only do properly aligned teeth make your smile look nice esthetically, but properly aligned teeth also help reduce the risk of tooth wear and broken teeth. It also reduces the risk of gum recession, makes it easier to clean teeth, and reduces the risk of TMJ symptoms, like jaw pain and headaches, throughout your life. A win-win!

We look forward to answering any of your questions and encourage you to call our office (509) 838-2434 to set up a consultation with Dr. Griffith to get started on Invisalign and achieve your brightest smile.