At Smiles of Palmetto Bay, we repair all kinds of bites. Overbites, underbites, and crossbites are just the beginning. Every smile has potential and we have yet to see someone leave without grinning from ear to ear. One of the best modern ways to straighten bad bites is with Invisalign. With Invisalign, you can fix your overbite, underbite, crossbite, and any other bite you can think of! Dr. Ross and Dr. Martinez have seen so many clients fix their smiles with Invisalign that our teams can no longer keep track.
The Invisalign clear aligner has become a household name. They’ve done for orthodontic appliances what Xerox did for copy machines. Just before the turn of the millennium, Invisalign became publicly available for purchase. Orthodontists were initially hesitant to use Invisalign. But over the last two decades, that hesitation has diminished. According to manufacturer Align Technology, Invisalign has helped over 13 million smiles worldwide.
How Is Invisalign Different From Regular Braces?
Invisalign is indeed an orthodontic appliance. Its purpose is to straighten teeth over a period of time. Like traditional braces, a patient may have to wear Invisalign for an extended period. In those ways, Invisalign is similar to conventional braces. But to call them the same would be inaccurate. Braces, whether metal or clear, have brackets and wires.
Additionally, Dr. Ross and Dr. Martinez will likely recommend braces to fix a bad bite. You may hear him use the term “malocclusion.” Braces can work better (and, in many cases, more quickly) on bad bites. That said, patients may eventually transition from braces to Invisalign to help them further hone their smile. Nevertheless, Invisalign and braces are distinctly different for that reason.
What Is Invisalign Then?
We’ve established that Invisalign is not the same as braces. So then, what is it? Invisalign works more like a retainer than braces. When you wear braces, you can’t take them off to eat or brush your teeth. But since Invisalign is a removable retainer, you have the bonus of taking it out when you have a meal or get ready to brush and floss.
Dr. Ross and Dr. Martinez design sets of Invisalign customized acrylic aligners for each specific set of teeth. Each Invisalign aligner is composed of smooth, sleek, and virtually unseeable plastic. At Smiles of Palmetto Bay, we use a digital scanner to analyze your bite, leading to a tailored aligner. We do all this without requiring yucky trays and impressions. Dr. Ross and Dr. Martinez then generate a unique plan for your teeth. Next, you’ll receive your complete set of aligners about two weeks later. The entire Invisalign treatment process takes roughly 6 to 15 months for most patients.
Is Invisalign Temporary Or Permanent?
This is a misunderstanding. Braces are affixed to the teeth with glue. The wires and brackets help pull the teeth into position over a while. If Dr. Ross and Dr. Martinez did fit you with Braces, he might give you a list of food and beverages to abstain from. You might have to temporarily say goodbye to some of your favorite snacks and beverages. But with Invisalign, that’s not the case. Invisalign is definitely not permanent, and Dr. Ross and Dr. Martinez do not attach it to you.
Can I Take Out My Invisalign If I Want To?
Yes, absolutely. Using only your fingers, you can apply and take out your Invisalign aligners whenever you please. This means that you get first dibs on straightening your smile. You might sometimes see results as early as three months after initiating treatment! Another advantage of unfastening Invisalign is the ability to eat (and drink) whatever you want!
Craving chicken wings, a big meaty burger, or some crunchy popcorn? Have at it! If you have an oral report or presentation for work or school, you can do away with your aligner for that too. Dr. Ross and Dr. Martinez recommend that you wear your Invisalign for 22 hours each day.
You can remove the aligners temporarily for that, too. However, for Invisalign to be most effective, they do need to be worn for approximately 22 hours a day. You won’t get that kind of freedom with conventional braces.
What’s The Price Range Like?
Smiles of Palmetto Bay understands budget constraints. In any circumstance, patients come first. Dr. Ross and Dr. Martinez will only offer treatment plans a patient will actually benefit from. We don’t believe in surprise charges or hidden fees.
With that in mind, sometimes people are intimidated by anything described as “state-of-the-art.” To many folks, that’s just another word for “expensive.” In reality, the price for Invisalign isn’t that different from traditional braces.
Will My Insurance Help?
Suppose your insurance provider covers dental and orthodontic interventions. In that case, you can use it to help with either Invisalign or regular braces. The team at Smiles of Palmetto Bay works with all Florida insurance companies. We’ll check and double-check any benefits you’re entitled to. Furthermore, we’re happy to talk with you about a payment plan that fits your budget.
Pick Smiles of Palmetto Bay For Your Needs
Yes, Invisalign can indeed fix your overbite. Invisalign works for all sorts of smiles. It’s easy to use, convenient, and affordable. Plus, it’s less restrictive than more conventional braces. Now that you’ve educated yourself a bit on Invisalign, you’re ready to commit! Go here to schedule a free consult. Not sure you can make it into the office? Don’t sweat it! Visit us here for a virtual consultation.