Do you dream of having a confident, healthy smile? Many patients come to us feeling self-conscious about crooked or misaligned teeth. These issues can also make brushing and flossing difficult, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Fortunately, you don’t need metal braces to straighten your teeth. At Ames Family Dental, we offer clear aligners, including advanced solutions like Invisalign®, so you can achieve beautiful, straight teeth comfortably and discreetly.
What Are Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners, often known as invisible aligners, are thin, transparent trays that gently guide your teeth into better alignment. They fit comfortably over your teeth and are almost invisible when worn, making them a great choice for adults and teens who want orthodontic treatment without metal braces.
Many patients ask, “What is Invisalign®?” Invisalign® is one of the most popular clear aligner systems, designed to help improve teeth alignment using a custom-made series of aligners. As an experienced Invisalign® provider, our team ensures your treatment is tailored to your smile and your goals.
How Does Invisalign® Work?
Invisalign® uses a series of custom-designed trays that apply gentle, steady pressure. Here’s how Invisalign® treatment typically works at Ames Family Dental:
- Digital Scan and Consultation
We begin with a detailed dental exam and a digital scan of your teeth. This scan is used to create your personalized treatment plan and answer important questions like how long Invisalign® takes for your specific case. - Custom Aligner Fabrication
Your aligners are crafted to match the precise shape of your mouth. Each set is slightly adjusted to move your teeth a fraction of a millimeter at a time. - Wearing Your Aligners
You’ll wear each set for about two weeks, for 20–22 hours per day. Aligners should be removed when eating, drinking anything besides water, and while brushing or flossing. - Progress Check-ins
You’ll visit our office once every four weeks to ensure your teeth alignment is progressing as planned. Most patients complete treatment in 9-15 months, but timing varies based on your needs. - Retainers After Treatment
Once you reach your new smile, you’ll wear a nighttime retainer to maintain your results.
What Clear Aligners Can Treat
Clear aligners are effective for many orthodontic conditions, including:
- Crooked teeth
- Gapped teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
If you’re comparing options, many patients ask about Invisalign® vs braces. Invisalign® retainers are removable, more discreet, and often more comfortable, while braces may be recommended for more complex cases. During your consultation, your Invisalign® dentist will help determine the best teeth treatment for your unique smile.
How Much Does Invisalign® Cost?
A common question we hear is “Does dental insurance cover Invisalign®?”
The cost varies depending on your level of misalignment and treatment length. Many dental insurance plans with orthodontic benefits help cover the Invisalign® cost just like traditional braces.
Start Your Clear Aligner Journey Today
If you’re ready to straighten your teeth, improve your oral health, and feel more confident in your smile, our team at Ames Family Dental is here to help. Whether you’re just beginning to explore clear aligners or you have questions about Invisalign®, we’re happy to guide you.
