Invisalign®

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign are clear, custom-made aligners that straighten your teeth without the need for braces. They’re nearly invisible and slip easily on and off for eating, as well as brushing and flossing your teeth.

Once a mold is made of your teeth and images are taken, a series of trays will be created to gradually move your teeth into place. After you start, you’ll switch to a new tray every week or so, each one bringing a bit more straightness, until you reach your desired results.

How is Invisalign different from braces?

Both Invisalign and braces will straighten your teeth, but braces are more visible, they can’t be removed, and are more likely to interfere with everyday activities such as eating or brushing your teeth. With Invisalign, you simply remove the trays when you want to. The aligners are also very easy to clean.

Invisalign also allows you to see progress of your straightening teeth more easily along the way. Teens are twice as likely to experience a boost in self-esteem from Invisalign compared to braces.   

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

During your treatment with Invisalign, you’ll ideally wear your trays for about 22 hours each day, removing them only as needed. The actual treatment length varies, depending on factors such as the current state of your teeth and your desired results. Every six to eight weeks or so during treatment, you’ll visit Dr. Lane for checkups to make sure you’re progressing well.

Are they covered by insurance?

Invisalign is covered by most orthodontic insurance plans. If you don’t have that type of insurance, which is also typically needed to cover for braces, convenient payment plan options are available. For teens, Invisalign offers a guarantee: if you’re unsatisfied with the treatment after six months, you can switch to braces without additional fees.

What happens after treatment?

Once you’ve finished your tooth-straightening treatment with Invisalign, Dr. Lane may recommend a retainer, such as a clear night retainer, to help keep your teeth aligned. To create the retainer, a custom mold is taken of your teeth in their straightened state.

While you await the retainer, you can continue wearing your last Invisalign trays at night.