10010 N. Division St. Spokane, WA 99218 Call Us (509) 466-2587
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Invisalign® FAQ Spokane, WA If you're considering orthodontic treatment but hesitant about traditional metal braces, Invisalign offers an innovative solution that transforms smiles. Spokane's leading dental practice Dynamic Dental Care has witnessed firsthand how clear aligners can dramatically improve both oral health and confidence. What Is Invisalign and How Does It Work?Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners to gradually move your teeth into their ideal positions. Unlike traditional braces with metal brackets and wires, these virtually invisible aligners are crafted from smooth, comfortable plastic that fits snugly over your teeth. The process begins with advanced 3D imaging technology that creates a precise digital model of your teeth. Using this detailed scan, our Invisalign dentists will develop a personalized treatment plan that maps out the exact movements your teeth will make. Each set of aligners is designed to make small, controlled movements, with patients typically switching to a new set every one to two weeks. The aligners work by applying gentle, consistent pressure to specific teeth, gradually shifting them into proper alignment. This controlled movement is based on the same biological principles that govern all orthodontic treatment, but with far more comfort and aesthetic appeal. What Dental Issues Can Invisalign Treat?Invisalign treatments can address a wide range of orthodontic concerns. The system effectively treats overcrowding, where teeth are bunched together due to insufficient space in the jaw. It also corrects spacing issues, including gaps between teeth that can trap food and contribute to dental problems. Bite irregularities respond well to Invisalign treatment as well. Overbites, where upper teeth significantly overlap lower teeth, can be corrected to improve both function and appearance. Underbites, crossbites, and open bites can also be successfully treated with clear aligners. However, extremely complex cases involving severe rotations or major bite corrections may require traditional orthodontic treatment. During your consultation, we'll thoroughly evaluate your specific situation to determine if Invisalign is the most appropriate treatment option. What Are the Benefits of Invisalign?The advantages of choosing Invisalign over traditional braces are numerous and significant. AestheticsThe most obvious benefit is aesthetics. The clear aligners are virtually invisible, allowing you to straighten your teeth without drawing attention to your orthodontic treatment. This discretion is particularly valuable for adults in professional settings or anyone who feels self-conscious about their appearance during treatment. ComfortComfort is another major advantage. Without metal brackets and wires, there are no sharp edges to irritate your cheeks and lips. The smooth plastic aligners are custom-fitted to your teeth, minimizing discomfort and eliminating the mouth sores often associated with traditional braces. RemovableThe removable nature of Invisalign aligners offers unparalleled convenience. You can remove them for eating, allowing you to enjoy all your favorite foods without restriction. Oral hygiene is also much easier since you can brush and floss normally after removing the aligners. Who Is a Good Candidate for Invisalign in Spokane?The ideal candidate for clear aligners is someone with mild to moderate orthodontic issues who values discretion and convenience. Adults and teenagers who want to straighten their teeth without the aesthetic impact of metal braces often find Invisalign particularly appealing. Successful treatment requires commitment and responsibility. Since the aligners are removable, patients must wear them for the recommended 20-22 hours per day. Good oral hygiene is essential for success. Candidates should have healthy gums and be free of active dental disease before beginning treatment. Additionally, patients who grind their teeth severely may need to address this issue before starting Invisalign therapy. What Is the Invisalign Treatment Process?We will first begin with a comprehensive consultation at our Spokane dental office. During this initial visit, we'll examine your teeth, discuss your goals, and determine if Invisalign is right for you. If you're a good candidate, we'll take detailed impressions or digital scans of your teeth to create your personalized treatment plan. Using advanced software, we'll show you a virtual representation of how your teeth will move throughout treatment and what your final results should look like. This preview helps you understand the treatment timeline and set realistic expectations for your smile transformation. Once you approve the treatment plan, your custom aligners will be manufactured. You will receive several sets at a time, along with detailed instructions for wear and care. Regular check-up appointments, typically scheduled every six to eight weeks, allow us to monitor your progress and provide new sets of aligners as your teeth move into their new positions. Throughout treatment, we'll track your progress and make any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal results. The removable nature of the aligners means you can continue eating your favorite foods and maintain your normal oral hygiene routine with minimal disruption to your daily life. How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?Treatment duration varies based on the complexity of your case and how consistently you wear your aligners. Most Invisalign patients complete their treatment in 12-18 months. The key factor influencing treatment time is compliance. Patients who wear their aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours daily typically see faster, more predictable results. Those who frequently remove their aligners or don't follow the prescribed wearing schedule may experience longer treatment times and less optimal outcomes. Your individual treatment timeline will be established during your initial consultation and refined as treatment progresses. We'll provide you with realistic expectations based on your specific case complexity and help you understand the factors that can influence your treatment duration. How Do I Care for My Invisalign Aligners?Proper care of your clear aligners is crucial for treatment success and oral health. Clean your aligners daily using lukewarm water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic, and harsh chemicals that might damage the material or create harmful residues. Remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. Food particles and colored beverages can stain the aligners and create an environment for bacterial growth. Always brush your teeth before reinserting your aligners to prevent trapping food particles and bacteria against your teeth. Store your aligners in their protective case whenever they're not in your mouth. This prevents loss, damage, and contamination. Regular cleaning with specialized aligner cleaning products can help maintain clarity and freshness. However, avoid using toothpaste on your aligners, as its abrasive properties can scratch the plastic and make them more visible. How Do I Get Started with Invisalign in Spokane?Beginning your Invisalign journey is straightforward. Contact our Spokane dental office at (509) 466-2587 to schedule your initial consultation with our experienced Invisalign dentist and team. During this appointment, we'll evaluate your teeth, discuss your goals, and determine if Invisalign is the right choice for your situation. |
Contact Information10010 N. Division Street Spokane, WA 99218-1305 (509) 466-2587 info@dynamicdentalcare.com Follow Us |
