If you're considering orthodontic treatment, Invisalign can be an excellent option. Invisalign consists of a series of clear aligners made to gently correct alignment issues.
Read on to learn more about Invisalign and how much you can expect treatment to cost in Suffolk County, NY.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an alternative to traditional metal braces that straighten your teeth without brackets or wires. Using a series of clear aligners, Invisalign gradually and gently shifts your teeth into place—even if you have crowded teeth or a misaligned bite (an under-bite, over-bite, crossbite, or open-bite). You'll be able to talk, eat, and smile with confidence during treatment. People won't be able to tell you’re wearing the virtually invisible aligners unless you tell them.
Each set of aligners is worn for approximately two weeks and can be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. As you replace each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will gradually move into the final position prescribed by your dentist.
The average number of aligners worn is between 18 and 30, but this number varies depending on the patient. The average duration of treatment is between 12 and 18 months. While this is the typical treatment duration for most patients, there are always exceptions—many people achieve their goals in less than a year, while others require more than 18 months.
What are the Advantages of Invisalign Over Traditional Braces?
The technology of Invisalign has improved to the point where few orthodontic problems cannot be addressed with Invisalign. The key to determining whether you’re a good candidate for Invisalign is an initial consultation with your dentist. If your dentist determines that you’re a good candidate, they’ll take x-rays and impressions of your teeth, upon which your treatment plan will be created.
Your dentist will then send this information to Align Technology, Inc., the manufacturer of Invisalign products. Align Technology then creates your aligner trays based on your dentist's information. The trays are created according to a strict schedule so that all you have to do is change them every two weeks, and gradually your teeth move into proper alignment.
Advantages of Invisalign over traditional braces include:
- Appearance. Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, unlike metal braces.
- Removability. Unlike traditional braces, you can remove your aligners, making it easier to brush and floss your teeth and eat what you want.
- Fewer office visits. Fewer visits to the dentist are required because you change your aligners every two weeks instead of having the wires adjusted.
- Shorter duration of treatment. Invisalign treatment can often be completed in less time than traditional braces.
How Much Does Invisalign Cost in Suffolk County, NY?
Invisalign treatment in Suffolk County, New York, costs between $4,500 and $7,000, depending on the extent of orthodontic correction required. Severe cases may require additional aligners and a longer treatment time. If your dental insurance policy covers orthodontic treatment, it may cover part of the cost of Invisalign.
Learn More About Invisalign
Correcting dental problems such as crowded teeth and crooked bites is challenging for any orthodontist. At the same time, maintaining an attractive smile isn't easy for patients with traditional braces. Fortunately, there's an alternative option with Invisalign braces.
Is Invisalign a fit for you? To learn more, contact Suffolk Pediatric Dentistry today and schedule an appointment with one of our orthodontists.