Invisalign® Clear Aligners in Alpharetta, GA

Most people envision orthodontic care as a mouthful of metal brackets and wires. This type of framework is a suitable choice for many people. Teens and adults who would prefer to avoid the common inconveniences of conventional braces have a new choice: Invisalign® clear aligners. They are like having clear braces!
The Invisalign system offers a comfortable, discreet treatment for misalignment. Made of durable, clear polyurethane plastic, aligners are barely noticeable when you smile, laugh, or speak. They are not noticeable when you eat. This is because Invisalign aligners are completely removable. No metal structures are bonded to your teeth, which means virtually no disadvantages to treatment.
The only disadvantage could stem from the fact that aligners can be removed, but shouldn’t be for any longer than necessary. The intent of removal is to facilitate comfortable eating and unobstructed oral hygiene. Aligners can also be removed for the occasional special event. The more compliant you are with prescribed use, however, the more effective your treatment will be.
Advantages of the Invisalign system include:
- Barely-there look. Your oral health is your concern, and your quest for a straighter smile does not have to be obvious with metal braces. With Invisalign, your self-image remains intact and is completely in your control.
- Oral health. Because aligners are removable, treatment does not increase the risk of tooth decay or other issues. Teeth can be brushed and flossed without braces getting in the way, allowing you to enjoy optimal oral health throughout your treatment process.
- Comfort. The smoothness and flexibility of Invisalign aligners lends to a gentler, more comfortable smile transformation.
- Dining convenience. With braces that are bonded to teeth, patients must carefully watch what they eat. Invisalign aligners are removed for meals, so you can continue eating all the foods you love.
- Protection from teeth grinding. Most people clench or grind to some degree while they sleep; some do it in excess. This can cause undue wear on teeth. Aligners, worn at night, can help to alleviate the stress that is caused when clenching or grinding occurs.
Over the past several years since Invisalign was first developed, a number of improvements have been made to this system. Today, Invisalign is used to treat a number of bite issues that once may have been more challenging. Some patients will benefit the most from conventional orthodontic treatment. Find out if Invisalign is suited to your smile needs in consultation with our friendly team.
How the Invisalign system straightens teeth
The principles of Invisalign are the same that apply to braces. Teeth are gradually moved by the controlled application of force. The difference is that Invisalign aligners are made of flexible, clear plastic, not metal.
Invisalign treatment involves planning via specialized computer software. This software uses a model of your teeth and takes them on a virtual journey from their current positions to their ideal alignment. Before you wear your first aligner, you will get to see your smile’s transformation on our computer screen.
Like traditional orthodontic treatment, Invisalign straightens teeth in stages. The stages of Invisalign include a series of aligners. Each aligner is designed in a shape that will further the progress of the movement. Aligners are worn 20 hours a day or more, one on the top arch and one on the bottom. Each set is worn for two weeks, after which a new set will be inserted. Each new set of aligners will feel slightly tight and will apply gentle force were needed to achieve the desired movement. When you reach the end of your series of aligners, you will see a much healthier, much more attractive smile.
Invisalign for teens
One of the improvements that have been made to the Invisalign system is the design of a model specifically for teens. This system features what are called “eruption tabs,” small areas in which space is left open for molars that are still growing. Teens also benefit from “compliance indicators” that enable teens, their parents, and Dr. Hepler to ensure proper wear. Compliance indicators fade as aligners are worn and they facilitate responsible to use that leads to successful alignment and a beautiful smile.
What is Invisalign?
Traditional braces have always been the go-to standard for orthodontic issues. Conventional braces use metal wires and brackets to align teeth. Invisalign, however, is a modern approach to straightening teeth. Instead of metal appliances, Invisalign uses transparent and removable aligners created from high-quality flexible plastic. The aligners are custom-fitted to apply controlled pressure over your teeth to move them into a straighter, healthier position.
What issues can Invisalign help with?
In the past, doctors used Invisalign to address mild orthodontic issues, such as slight crowding or small gaps between teeth. Invisalign was considered a more cosmetic and convenient alternative to traditional metal braces but not ideal for complex cases. However, with years of research and development, Invisalign has evolved to handle significant orthodontic challenges. Today, it can correct moderate to severe issues like overbites, underbites, crossbites, and even complicated cases of crowding.
What can I expect from Invisalign treatment?
The treatment begins with a consultation at the Atlanta Center for Dental Health with Dr. Bradley Hepler, a certified Invisalign provider. We’ll discuss your expectations and examine your teeth to determine suitability for Invisalign. Most cases are treatable with Invisalign. However, severe orthodontic issues, including underdeveloped jaws, may require other interventions.
If Invisalign is right for you, the dentist will digitally scan your teeth and use Invisalign software to simulate your treatment. Amazingly, you’ll see your results even before treatment starts! Our Invisalign lab will use your treatment plan to custom-make your aligners. Each set of aligners gradually shifts your teeth into a straighter position. You’ll progress through treatment by switching from one set to another every two weeks.
How long does Invisalign take?
Although timelines differ, Invisalign can treat many cases within twelve to eighteen months. However, milder cases often require fewer months. Every case is different, so the best way to know how long your treatment will take is to schedule an in-person consultation with your dentist.
When you finish your treatment, you’ll need a retainer to prevent your teeth from relapsing. Retainers can be fixed or removable. We’ll discuss with you to determine the best option for your needs.
Can I eat or drink with Invisalign?
When eating, you must remove your aligners to prevent damaging or staining your appliances. Also, don’t drink anything except water with your aligners on. You can remove your aligners on special occasions like corporate dinners or photo sessions, but remember to wear them at least twenty-two hours daily.
How much does Invisalign cost?
We can’t give an exact cost without first evaluating your smile, but on average, Invisalign price ranges between $3,000 to $6,000. The cost varies depending on the complexity of your orthodontic issues and compliance with treatment.
Good news! Many insurance plans cover Invisalign treatment the same way they do for braces. Your insurance may pay a percentage or a dollar amount for your treatment. Always consult with your provider to establish the actual amount. Better yet, we provide financing options to help you make manageable payments throughout your treatment rather than a lump sum payment.
Is it time for Invisalign treatment?
If you are looking for straighter teeth with Invisalign in Alpharetta, Georgia, call (866) 687-1992 to schedule an appointment Dr. Bradley Hepler at the Atlanta Center for Dental Health. Your beautiful smile awaits!
Oral hygiene during treatment
As mentioned, the removable aspect of Invisalign is one of the biggest advantages of this care. You have the ability to take the best possible care of your teeth and gums throughout your orthodontic treatment so please do not take oral hygiene lightly! If food debris is not sufficiently removed after meals and snacks, it becomes trapped between aligners and teeth. Failing to properly brush and floss as recommended will put you at risk for cavities and gum disease. In addition to brushing and flossing teeth, it is important to care for aligners through gentle brushing and rinsing under lukewarm water.
Post-treatment maintenance
Invisalign is different from braces in the way that teeth are straightened. What remains important is your commitment to follow-up. The periodontal ligament will pull against newly straightened teeth if retainers are not worn as directed after the completion of direct orthodontic treatment. Retainers are the best way to protect the alignment of your smile and the investment you have made into it.
The Atlanta Center for Dental Health offers friendly, professional teeth-straightening treatment to teens and adults from Alpharetta and surrounding areas including Cumming, Johns Creek, and Roswell. Call today to schedule your visit.