Invisalign® Clear Aligners in Andover, MA

Do you Need To See An Orthodontist For Invisalign®?

An Orthodontist is a dentist who has completed 2 to 3 years of additional training to learn how to move teeth. Moving teeth can be very complicated. The teeth need to be positioned properly so they not only look good, but function correctly. Poorly placed teeth can alter your bite making it difficult to close your teeth together, and can even affect the health of your teeth and gums. Having an Orthodontist closely monitoring your tooth movement, and available to answer all your questions, is the fastest and most effective way to get that smile you have always wanted.

How Much Does Invisalign Cost?

Treatment cost varies with the complexity of a case. Invisalign treatment typically costs between $2500 and $6500. Limited treatment, just addressing 1 or 2 teeth can cost as little as $300.00 using in house aligners. Consultations at our office are always free so it is worth making an appointment to discuss your concerns and treatment options with an experienced orthodontist.

Invisalign Vs Traditional Braces: Which Is Right For You?

Many patients love that Invisalign aligners are almost invisible, and are easily removed when cleaning your teeth. Some patients like that traditional braces are always on their teeth so they don’t have to worry about remembering to wear their aligners, or losing an aligner. Most cases can be treated with Invisalign or traditional braces. It is free and easy to make an appointment at our office to learn your treatment options.

What Exactly Is Invisalign, And How Does It Work?

Invisalign is a proprietary system of clear aligners that do an excellent job of straightening teeth in most case types. The orthodontist takes a digital scan of your teeth and using Invisalign’s software designs your treatment. The orthodontist decides how much to move the teeth, and how they will fit into your bite. When the orthodontist is happy with the treatment design they will have Invisalign manufacture the aligners. Once manufactured, the orthodontist will add any necessary “attachments” to your teeth and place the aligners. You wear the aligners as directed, change them at scheduled intervals, and see your orthodontist regularly to monitor your tooth movement.

Am I A Candidate For Invisalign?

Most cases can be treated with Invisalign. Please call our office for your free consultation and we will discuss all your treatment options.

Are There Alternatives To Invisalign?

Invisalign is a proprietary system of clear aligners that can work even in complicated cases. Fixed braces, whether metal or clear, can be used in complicated cases as well. There are other aligner systems out there with various price points, which may or may not be as effective in certain situations. We can often offer in house aligners for minor tooth movement which are very cost effective. Your best bet is to come in for a free consultation and discuss your options with the orthodontist.

Is It Difficult To Talk With Invisalign?

When you first receive your aligners it typically takes 2 to 5 days to get used to how the aligners and attachments feel, and how it affects your speech. Everyone is different, but usually by the end of your first week everything feels fine and there are no problems talking with the aligners in.

Can You Eat And Drink With Invisalign?

Yes, you can eat and drink with aligners in your mouth. Most people remove the aligners for their major meals, but if you are just popping something in your mouth it is fine to have the aligners in. What we want to be aware of is not allowing food or surgary drinks to stay trapped in the aligner for long periods of time. This can damage your enamel and lead to decalcification and tooth decay. So, don’t take little sips of soda or a sports drink over a long period of time. Just have your drink and when you are able to, go to the bathroom and rinse out your aligners and mouth.

How Long Will Invisalign Treatment Take?

This depends on how many teeth we are moving, and if we have to correct your bite or not. Most full mouth Invisalign treatments take from 10 to 18 months. Many cases get a first set of aligners for 8 months, and then get a second set or “refinement” for the last 4 months. If you are really diligent about wearing your aligners you can change your trays more quickly and speed up your treatment. Limited treatments meaning straightening just a few front teeth can be completed in 3 to 6 months.