Are you self-conscious about your slightly crooked teeth but hesitant about getting metal braces? Invisalign® Clear Braces offers a modern solution to align your teeth discreetly and comfortably… without worrying about ugly metal brackets.
Invisalign
Matthews, NC
Invisalign® Clear Braces
They are virtually invisible, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a more aesthetic orthodontic option. Contact us to schedule an appointment or learn more about Invisalign in Matthews, NC.
What are Invisalign® Clear Braces?
Invisalign® clear braces are a modern orthodontic treatment designed to straighten teeth discreetly and comfortably. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign® uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners that fit snugly over the teeth. They are made of a patented FDA-approved thermoplastic material called SmartTrack. They contain no BPA, BPS, latex, or gluten. These aligners gradually shift the teeth into the desired position, and they are virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for both teens and adults who prefer a less noticeable orthodontic option.
The process begins with a consultation, during which our dentist creates a treatment plan. Using 3D imaging technology, a series of aligners is crafted to fit the patient’s teeth at each stage of the realignment process. Patients typically wear each set of aligners for about two weeks before progressing to the next set, with the entire treatment lasting anywhere from several months to a couple of years, depending on the complexity of the case.
Who can use Invisalign®?
Invisalign® is suitable for both teens and adults seeking a discreet way to straighten their teeth. The ideal candidates are those with mild to moderate dental issues like overcrowding, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. It’s also a great option for individuals who have previously had braces and need minor adjustments.
Generally speaking, Invisalign in Matthews, NC is suitable for:
- Teens and adults seeking a discreet orthodontic solution
- Individuals with mild to moderate overcrowding, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites
- Patients who prefer removable aligners for easier oral hygiene
- People who want a comfortable alternative to traditional metal braces
- Those committed to wearing aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours per day
A consultation with our family dentists is essential to determine if Invisalign® is the right treatment for your specific needs.
Real Patient Results
What are the benefits of Invisalign®?
- They are removable – Unlike the traditional metal braces, Invisalign® braces can be removed to eat, brush and floss. They can easily be removed at your convenience and without any hassles.
- You can eat what you want – You are not restricted in what you can eat because there are no wires or brackets to avoid.
- Easier to brush and floss your teeth – You don’t have to worry about flossing around your brackets, or being careful with how you brush. Just remove Invisalign®, brush, floss, clean your Invisalign® braces per instructions, and put them back on!
- Less discomfort – Invisalign® braces are smooth, and fit comfortably to the teeth and do not cause irritation to the teeth and gums. With Invisalign®, you do not have brackets or wires that can scratch your gums/cheeks. You will experience fewer visits to the dentist without the hassle of brackets and wires breaking.
- They are discreet -Unlike the traditional metal braces that give the same end-result, Invisalign® braces are made of clear plastic that it is difficult to see. Other clear braces options such as ceramic braces and lingual braces are also less noticeable, but with Invisalign® clear plastic, some people may not even notice you have braces!
- Blue dot technology – The blue compliance indicator dot on the outside of teen aligners ensures that the teenager is wearing clear aligners enough.
How Does it Work?
Your Invisalign in Matthews, NC starts with a consultation with our dentist.
Dr. Monica Patel will begin by evaluating your smile and digitally mapping a precise, customized treatment plan. This treatment plan will illustrate the step-by-step transformation of your teeth.
- Smile scan – Technology has taken over the age-old method of using teeth molds. Our dentists at Craft Smiles will capture an accurate 3D image of your teeth using an iTero Element scanner.
- Customized Treatment Plan – Using the digital impression of your teeth, we will design a customized treatment plan. The treatment plan is designed after shifting every tooth in every direction using the ClinCheck software. This will act as a roadmap to your new smile and will let us know how long it will take to reach our goal, and how often you will need your aligners replaced. We can show you your new smile even before you get started with the Invisalign® braces.
- Aligners – Once the digital plan is finalized, a state-of-the-art printing process is used to make the aligners. The aligners are made using SmartTrack material engineered especially for the Invisalign® system. The aligners are custom made, because every gum line is different. When the customized aligners arrive, you can put them on and be ready to go. About every two weeks, you should receive a new set of aligners. It is essential you wear your aligners at least 22 hours a day.
- Periodic Appointments – Your progress will depend upon how well you follow the instructions given by your dentist. We will schedule appointments with you to make sure your treatment is progressing as planned. Please don’t skip these appointments.
Invisalign Vs. Traditional Braces
Appearance:
- Invisalign: Nearly invisible clear aligners
- Traditional Braces: Noticeable metal brackets and wires
Comfort:
- Invisalign: Smooth plastic aligners with no sharp edges
- Traditional Braces: Metal brackets can cause irritation to cheeks and gums
Removability:
- Invisalign: Removable for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing
- Traditional Braces: Fixed in place, making oral hygiene more challenging
Dietary Restrictions:
- Invisalign: No restrictions; aligners are removed during meals
- Traditional Braces: Avoid sticky, hard, and chewy foods that can damage brackets
Treatment Duration:
- Invisalign: Varies, often shorter for mild to moderate cases
- Traditional Braces: Typically longer, especially for complex cases
Follow-Up Visits:
- Invisalign: Fewer office visits are required, usually every 6-8 weeks
- Traditional Braces: More frequent adjustments, typically every 4-6 weeks
Effectiveness:
- Invisalign: Effective for a wide range of orthodontic issues, but not all
- Traditional Braces: Effective for all types of orthodontic cases, including severe misalignments
Meet Dr. Monica Patel
Dr. Monica Patel is a highly skilled and compassionate dentist at Craft Smiles in Matthews, NC. A Charlotte native, she completed her undergraduate studies at NC State and earned a Master’s in Nutritional Sciences from Columbia University. Dr. Patel then attended Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, where she met her colleague, Dr. Sameer Kashyap. Committed to providing top-notch dental care, Dr. Patel combines her extensive training with a patient-centered approach, ensuring personalized treatments for all her patients.
Invisalign FAQs
Does Invisalign cost more than metal braces?
Due to its advanced technology and custom-made aligners, Invisalign in Matthews, NC typically costs slightly more than metal braces. However, the cost can vary based on factors such as treatment complexity. Many patients find the benefits of Invisalign justify the slightly higher investment.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
The duration of Invisalign treatment varies depending on individual needs, but it typically ranges from 6 to 18 months. More complex cases may require longer treatment times. Your orthodontist will create a customized plan to provide you with a clear timeline based on your dental needs.
Is Invisalign suitable for everyone?
Invisalign is suitable for many people, but not all. It is an effective option for addressing mild to moderate orthodontic issues such as crooked teeth, overcrowding, and gaps. However, severe cases may require traditional braces or alternative treatments.
Is Invisalign as effective as traditional braces?
Invisalign can be as effective as traditional braces for many orthodontic issues. It utilizes advanced technology to gradually move teeth into their desired positions with custom-made aligners. However, certain complex cases may still benefit from traditional braces.
Will I need to wear a retainer after treatment?
Yes, wearing a retainer after completing Invisalign treatment is crucial to maintain the results. Retainers help prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Your orthodontist will provide instructions on how often to wear your retainer, typically starting with full-time retainers and then transitioning to nightly wear.
Why Choose Us For Your Invisalign in Matthews, NC?
Invisalign® Clear Braces are made to fit your life and not to interrupt it like traditional braces do. You can also stay active in sports and activities you love. You will not be embarrassed to wear the Invisalign® clear braces to movie nights or coffee with friends as they are virtually invisible. Your friends will not even know that you are wearing them. Invisalign® has every benefit you can ask for. The best benefit being, you will be able to see the changes in every stage as your teeth transform. We want to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. If you are looking for Invisalign in Matthews, NC, call and make your appointment today!
