Invisalign®

Happy patient using invisalign in Boca Raton.

Invisalign® clear aligners are a popular alternative to traditional metal braces that can help patients achieve a straighter, more beautiful smile. At 5th Avenue Dental, we are pleased to offer Invisalign treatments customized to fit your unique orthodontic needs.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable plastic aligners that gently shift your teeth into place over time. Each aligner is worn for approximately two weeks before being switched out for the next in the series, gradually moving your teeth into the desired position.

Unlike metal braces, Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible, so most people won’t even notice you are straightening your teeth! The aligners are also removable, so you can enjoy the benefits of Invisalign while still being able to eat, drink, brush, and floss with ease.

Who is a Good Candidate for Invisalign?

Invisalign can work for both teens and adults alike. The convenience and aesthetic benefits make it an extremely popular option for adults looking to straighten their smile. Teens can also benefit from more discreet orthodontic treatment that doesn’t stand out like clunky metal braces do.

The ideal candidate should fall under the following categories:

Mild to Moderate Issues

Patients with mild to moderate spacing, crowding, underbites, overbites, crossbites, gaps, and other orthodontic issues are often good candidates. Invisalign uses gradual force to shift teeth into alignment. Traditional braces are recommended for more severe misalignment cases.

Healthy Teeth and Gums

Since aligners are removable, Invisalign relies on compliance with proper oral hygiene. Candidates should have healthy gums and teeth before starting treatment. Poor oral health and bad habits like smoking may impede your progress.

Motivation to Wear Aligners

The aligners must be worn 20-22 hours per day to work. Results depend on your dedication and consistency in wearing each custom-fit aligner set for the recommended duration before switching. Responsible patients committed to the treatment plan tend to see better outcomes.

No Extensive Dental Work

Those with veneers, crowns, bridges, implants, or other extensive dental work may not be suitable candidates, as the aligners need to grip natural teeth to shift them. Some cosmetic dentistry treatments can obstruct progress.

The Invisalign Process

It may take one to two years before your teeth reach the desired position during an Invisalign treatment. However, every patient is different. Some may see results in as little as six months!

A typical Invisalign treatment is as follows:

Impressions and Scans

The first step is getting impressions or a digital scan of your teeth. This creates a precise 3D image of your smile to map out the exact movements needed.

Custom Aligner Design

Based on your tooth anatomy, orthodontic issues, and goals, a complete set of custom aligners is digitally designed specifically for your treatment plan. Your aligners are tailored to your smile for the most comfort.

Switching Aligners

You’ll switch to a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks as your teeth gradually move to their correct positions. Most patients go through 10 to 30 aligner sets during their treatment.

Follow-Up Appointments

We recommend check-ins every couple of months (every 8 to 10 weeks) to monitor progress and order new aligners as needed. This is also your chance to bring up any questions or concerns.

Retention Phase

After your teeth are straightened, we must ensure they remain that way. Custom retainers will help keep your teeth stable in their newly aligned positions after treatment is complete.

Ready to Experience a Straighter Smile with Invisalign?

Let 5th Avenue Dental help you achieve your dream smile with Invisalign! Call today to schedule a consultation.

*Invisalign®, the Invisalign logo, and iTero®, among others, are trademarks and/ or service marks of Align Technology, Inc. or one of its subsidiaries or affiliated companies and may be registered in the U.S. and/or other countries.