Leading Invisalign Dentist

Quality Orthodontic Treatment

Invisalign is an exciting alternative to traditional metal braces. At Maplewood Dental Associates, we help our patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles they can be proud of. Our skilled team works closely with each patient to create a personalized treatment plan that brings their dream smile to life. Our Maplewood Invisalign dentist provides quality orthodontic care tailored to your needs.

Invisalign Aligners

Unlike traditional braces that use metal wires and brackets, Invisalign employs a series of clear, removable plastic trays—aligners—that fit snugly over your teeth.

These virtually invisible aligners are easy to remove for brushing, flossing, eating, and drinking. This means you can enjoy your favorite foods and maintain your oral hygiene, which is essential during orthodontic treatment. Plus, the aligners are barely noticeable!

The Invisalign Process

While different in technique, the Invisalign process is similar to traditional treatment. Here’s how it generally works:

Initial Evaluation: Our Maplewood Invisalign dentists conduct a thorough orthodontic evaluation using X-rays, photographs, and impressions to understand your needs.
3-D Proposal: Two weeks later, we'll review a 3-D treatment plan together to ensure we meet your goals. Then, Invisalign will create custom aligners designed just for you.
Wearing Your Aligners: Wear each set of aligners for 22 hours a day, changing to a new set every one to two weeks. Remember to take them out to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Each new set moves your teeth closer to their final positions.
Follow Instructions: It is crucial to follow your dentist's guidelines for wearing and cleaning your aligners. Not wearing them for the recommended time or forgetting to switch can reduce the treatment's effectiveness.
Retainer After Treatment: Once you finish your treatment, you must wear a retainer to keep your teeth in place. We'll give you all the instructions you need for your retainer.

Is Invisalign Right for You?

Invisalign is an excellent option for various orthodontic issues, including:

Gapped Teeth: Gaps can trap food and bacteria, leading to gum disease. Invisalign helps close these gaps, boosting your confidence and oral health.
Crowded Teeth: Crowding can cause misalignment and make chewing difficult. Invisalign gently shifts crowded teeth into their proper positions.
Overbite: An overbite can make talking difficult and wear down your teeth over time. We custom-fit Invisalign aligners to address this issue.
Crossbite: A crossbite occurs when upper teeth fit inside lower teeth. Invisalign aligners can help correct this, improving your bite and confidence.

However, if you have severe misalignment or other major issues, Invisalign might not be suitable. Our Maplewood dentists will help you explore different treatment options if needed.

Considerations Before Choosing Invisalign

Age: Invisalign is best for older teens and adults who want a discreet way to straighten their teeth.
Responsibility: Since Invisalign is removable, you must wear the aligners for 22 hours daily. If you're not committed to following this regimen, there might be better choices for you.
Cost: While the cost of Invisalign has decreased, prices vary based on your specific needs. We offer flexible payment options to help you.

Your Maplewood Invisalign Dentist

Thanks to technological advances, Invisalign now treats a range of orthodontic issues. We’d love to help you discover if Invisalign can give you the smile you’ve always wanted! Call us at (651) 770-3831 with questions, visit our contact page, or fill out our easy online form to schedule an appointment at our Maplewood office. We can’t wait to hear from you!

Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign Treatment

How does Invisalign differ from braces?

Invisalign straightens teeth using clear, removable aligners, while braces rely on metal brackets and wires.

What are the benefits of Invisalign over braces?

Nearly Invisible: Most people won't notice you're wearing them.
Convenient: You can remove them to eat, drink, brush, and floss.
Regular Diet: No need to change your eating habits.
Easy Oral Hygiene: Keep your teeth clean without special tools.

How long does treatment last?

Treatment typically lasts between six to 18 months, depending on your needs. You'll wear aligners for 22 hours daily, only removing them to eat and clean.

How do I clean my aligners?

When you take them out, simply brush them and soak them occasionally in a denture cleaner.

Can I chew gum with my aligners?

No, you should remove your aligners before chewing gum to avoid damage.

Can I smoke with Invisalign?

Smoking can discolor and warp your aligners, so taking them out is best.

What happens after treatment?

After finishing Invisalign, you must wear a retainer to keep your teeth in place.

How much does Invisalign cost?

Costs vary depending on your case. During your first visit, we'll discuss treatment costs and financial options.

Does Invisalign hurt?

Some patients feel mild pressure when starting new aligners, but this usually fades quickly.