Invisalign in Hampton, NH

Dr. Harbpinder Shevchenko

What are Invisalign aligners, and how do they straighten teeth without braces?

Let's answer the first part first: What are Invisalign aligners?

Invisalign aligners, which many patients also refer to as clear aligners, are a series of clear plastic trays customized specifically for your mouth and your teeth. These trays are designed to move your teeth slowly and discreetly over time.

You will wear the aligners throughout the day, and each tray is part of a series. Patients wear one tray after another until we achieve the desired result. Some patients choose Invisalign because their teeth are crowded, while others have spacing issues. Some simply want to improve their smile even further. There are many reasons why someone may choose Invisalign treatment.

As for how Invisalign works, each tray is designed with specific tooth movements built into it. For example, if a patient has crowded teeth, we begin by taking a scan. The aligners are then custom-made, and each tray gradually moves the teeth from one position to the next.

Think of it as moving from point A to point Z. Tray number one moves the teeth from A to B, tray number two moves them from B to C, and so on until we reach the final result. Invisalign aligners move teeth gradually, comfortably, and discreetly. They are virtually invisible and generally much more comfortable than traditional braces.

What are the benefits of Invisalign for teens and adults?

There are many benefits to Invisalign treatment for young teens, teenagers, and adults. In fact, Invisalign has become increasingly popular among younger patients as well.

One of the biggest advantages is improved oral health. If you have crowded teeth or large gaps between your teeth, it can be difficult to brush and floss effectively. Once your teeth are properly aligned, it becomes much easier to clean them thoroughly, helping you maintain healthier teeth and gums.

Another important benefit is the way proper alignment affects the overall health of your teeth and jaw. Think of it like a car with tires that are out of alignment. If the tires aren't aligned correctly, something will wear out faster. The same concept applies to your teeth.

When teeth are not aligned properly, it can affect your jaw joints, your enamel, and your gums. Enamel is the protective outer layer of your teeth, and once it wears down, the underlying tooth structure becomes more vulnerable to damage and decay. Misalignment can also contribute to gum problems over time.

There are cosmetic and emotional benefits as well. Many patients tell me they avoid smiling in photos, speaking in social settings, or attending gatherings because they feel self-conscious about their teeth.

Improving your smile can have a significant impact on your confidence and self-esteem. Invisalign helps address both the functional and cosmetic concerns that many patients experience.

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

The length of Invisalign treatment varies from patient to patient. In many cases, we are able to complete treatment in less than a year.

I have personally completed some cases in as little as four months. In those situations, I tell patients that they may finish treatment before their next six-month dental cleaning appointment.

Generally speaking, most Invisalign treatments fall somewhere between four months and one year, although some more complex cases may take longer.

What can affect my Invisalign treatment timeline?

The biggest factor that affects treatment length is the complexity of your case.

This includes factors such as how much crowding is present, how much spacing exists between the teeth, and whether bite issues need to be corrected.

One common issue we address with Invisalign is excessive overlap of the teeth, often referred to as a deep bite. Ideally, there should be a small amount of horizontal and vertical overlap. However, significant overbites, underbites, or severe crowding can create excessive friction and wear on the teeth.

Over time, this can contribute to enamel wear, gum recession, bone loss, and other oral health concerns.

The more complex the alignment and bite issues are, the longer treatment may take. Ultimately, the amount of crowding, spacing, and bite correction needed will help determine the length of your Invisalign treatment.

How often should I change my Invisalign trays?

The timing for changing Invisalign trays can vary based on your dentist's treatment philosophy and the specifics of your case.

There are several different treatment approaches that dentists may use when planning Invisalign treatment. Based on the approach selected for your case, your dentist will provide instructions on when to move to your next set of aligners.

Typically, patients change their trays every four to seven days. Depending on your treatment plan, you may be instructed to change your aligners every four days, every five days, or every seven days.

How much does Invisalign cost?

On average, Invisalign treatment typically ranges from approximately $5,000 to $8,500.

The cost depends largely on the complexity of your case. Factors such as severe crowding, deep bites, spacing issues, or other conditions that require additional treatment can affect both the length and complexity of treatment.

In some cases, additional procedures may be needed as part of the overall treatment plan, which can also influence the total cost.

After a consultation and examination, your dentist will be able to provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific needs.

At Smiles By The Sea Family Dentistry, there are often financing options available for both adult and younger patients. Monthly payment plans may be available to help make treatment more affordable.

Our goal is to help you achieve healthier, straighter teeth, improve your confidence, and help you maintain your smile for years to come.

What results can I expect from Invisalign treatment?

Most patients notice a significant difference after Invisalign treatment, especially if they begin with crowded teeth, bite issues, or spacing concerns.

Sometimes the changes are dramatic, while other times they may be more subtle. I often meet patients who are told their teeth look straight, but they personally notice small imperfections that bother them when they smile, take photos, or even when they run their tongue across their teeth.

Before starting treatment, we'll discuss your goals and what you're hoping to achieve with Invisalign.

For patients with significant crowding, one of the biggest improvements is how much easier it becomes to brush and floss. Many patients tell me they constantly felt like food was getting trapped between their teeth before treatment. Once their teeth are properly aligned, it's a night-and-day difference.

Patients often find that brushing is more effective, flossing is easier, and their teeth simply feel cleaner. Because the teeth are properly aligned, plaque and buildup are easier to remove, helping improve overall oral health.

Another thing I hear frequently from patients is how different their mouth feels after treatment. It's a very positive feeling. Many patients tell me they are surprised by how much they enjoy the results beyond simply improving their appearance.

Of course, patients appreciate having a straighter smile and feeling more confident in photos, but they also enjoy having healthier teeth and gums. I often joke with patients that their gums will thank them because good alignment makes brushing and flossing so much more effective.

These are some of the benefits and changes you can expect after Invisalign treatment.

What are Invisalign attachments, and why might I need them?

Invisalign attachments are small tooth-colored shapes that are bonded to certain teeth during treatment. Some patients refer to them as little buttons.

If you've seen traditional braces, you may be familiar with the large metal brackets attached to the teeth. Invisalign attachments serve a similar purpose, but they are much smaller and made from a tooth-colored composite resin material.

Because they closely match the color of your teeth, most people won't notice them unless they are looking very closely.

Most Invisalign patients require attachments. In fact, it is relatively uncommon not to need them because they play an important role in helping the aligners move your teeth efficiently and predictably.

Attachments come in different shapes and sizes depending on what we are trying to correct. The type and number of attachments used will vary based on factors such as crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, or other alignment concerns.

You may feel the attachments with your lips or tongue because they are attached directly to your teeth. However, once your aligners are in place, they are covered by the trays, which helps create a smooth feel.

The attachments remain in place throughout treatment and are removed once your Invisalign treatment is complete. After they are removed and your teeth are polished, your teeth will feel normal again.

At that point, you will typically transition to wearing a retainer to help maintain your results.

How do I clean my Invisalign aligners during treatment?

Keeping your aligners clean is just as important as maintaining good oral hygiene during treatment.

While you're brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash to keep your teeth healthy, you should also be cleaning your aligners regularly. In general, aligners should be cleaned two to three times per day, including when you wake up in the morning.

There are several different ways to clean Invisalign trays. Invisalign provides cleaning crystals with many cases, which can be used to help remove buildup and keep the trays fresh.

You can also use a separate soft toothbrush to gently brush away plaque and debris from the aligners.

Another popular option is an ultrasonic aligner cleaning pod. Many patients purchase these devices online. The aligners can be placed inside the pod with water and cleaning crystals while you brush and floss your teeth.

If you prefer not to use a cleaning pod, a simple combination of mild soap, water, and a soft toothbrush can also be effective. Light brushing helps remove plaque and buildup without damaging the trays.

Many patients clean their aligners in the morning and evening, while others prefer to clean them after lunch as well. The goal is to reduce plaque and bacteria buildup on both your teeth and your aligners. Proper cleaning helps reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health concerns during treatment.

By maintaining good oral hygiene and keeping your aligners clean, you'll be able to complete your Invisalign treatment with a healthier smile, healthier gums, and healthier teeth.

If you’re ready to schedule an exam or would like to learn more about our services, we’d love to hear from you. Call us at (603) 634-9445 or email [email protected]. We look forward to caring for your smile.

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How does Invisalign compare to traditional treatment?

So Invisalign is a series of clear aligners, which are designed to move your teeth to correct, for example, one patient might be trying to correct a crossbite. Another patient might be trying to correct a gap in their teeth. Another patient might be trying to correct any crowding in their teeth. It's a series of clear aligners that are designed specifically for your case, and a patient wears them for a designated length of time to correct the problem that they have.

Is Invisalign really faster than braces?

Invisalign, usually, yes. It is usually faster than braces, much faster than braces.

Why is Invisalign often considered more comfortable than braces?

Invisalign is usually considered more comfortable than braces because the movements built into Invisalign are usually slow and gradual. With Invisalign trays, the patient is always wearing the trays and the movements are subtle, providing slight pressure instead of sudden pressure, which is common with braces tightening. Because the trays are sleek and firm to your teeth, you don't feel the discomfort of metal wires in your mouth. Patients generally find Invisalign to be a more comfortable orthodontic treatment.

What is the process involved in Invisalign treatment?

The process for Invisalign treatment is very simple and straightforward. When a patient comes in for a consultation, I will ensure they are qualified and that it is the best treatment for them. We do a quick 3D scan, take precise pictures, and submit them to Invisalign. They create a 3D model and produce the trays. We bring the patient back in, give them the trays, and provide instructions on how to use them. We schedule a couple of checkups during the treatment to monitor progress. Finally, we do a final check, remove any attachments, and create retainers. The whole process does not involve any needles or drills.

How many Invisalign trays might I need?

The number of Invisalign trays you need can vary based on the length of your treatment. One person might need 15 trays, while another might need 60 trays. The number of trays is determined by what we are trying to correct and achieve for you.

Do I sleep with Invisalign?

Yes, patients do sleep with Invisalign. This ensures that the movement is consistent and prevents any backward movement, helping to complete the treatment efficiently and quickly so you can enjoy your beautiful smile.

Is there anything that could disqualify me from using Invisalign?

There are some factors that can disqualify a patient from getting Invisalign treatment. If a patient has severe active decay, we need to address that first. Active periodontal disease is another disqualifier because we need healthy gums to support tooth movement. Any infection in the mouth also needs to be treated before starting Invisalign.

Can Invisalign fix crossbite?

Invisalign can fix many types of crossbites. However, certain types of crossbites may not be suitable for Invisalign. We evaluate each patient to determine if Invisalign can effectively treat their specific type of crossbite.

Is Invisalign painful?

Invisalign is not painful. Sometimes patients may feel some discomfort, which usually subsides within the first week, but there is no pain afterward.

Does most dental insurance cover the cost of Invisalign?

Invisalign can be covered by dental insurance, but it depends on your specific plan and benefits. Coverage can vary from $500 to $2,000 based on the policy, age limitations, and other factors.

I hope I was able to answer most of your questions. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to call us at (603) 634-9445, and we will be happy to help you.