Invisalign Arlington Heights

How Invisalign Works

Invisalign is an FDA-approved orthodontic treatment that uses clear, customized plastic aligners to gradually reposition the teeth. Each aligner focuses on shifting one part of the bite according to the overall treatment plan. It’s a small adjustment each time, but over a period of 12 to 18 months, on average, the bite is successfully realigned.

To set you up with Invisalign, your dentist will evaluate your bite and put together a personalized treatment plan. Our team will take photos, X-rays, and impressions of your oral structures before sending all of this information to the Invisalign lab for the creation of your trays. You’ll receive the entire Invisalign treatment -- all the personalized aligners -- at once. You’ll begin treatment immediately and advance to the next aligner in the series every two weeks, gradually working your way to straighter teeth and a more beautiful smile.

Who Can Invisalign Help?

Invisalign is a solution for many common orthodontic problems. However, it is generally best for people who have the self-discipline to wear their aligners for the recommended amount of time each day and value the aesthetic benefits that come with using clear braces to realign their smile. With all of that said, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with us if you’re interested in finding out if you’re a candidate! You can also read on to learn more about who Invisalign can help in the meantime.

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Crowded Teeth

If there isn’t enough space in your mouth for your teeth to sit in their properly aligned positions, then they will crowd together. While many patients are concerned about the aesthetic downsides of this orthodontic problem, we’re concerned about your oral health as well. After all, the unique crevices can trap food particles and other debris, resulting in tooth decay, gum disease, and other serious problems. So, even if your case seems relatively minor, don’t worry – schedule a consultation with us so we can determine if you’re a candidate for Invisalign.

Gaps Between Teeth

Sadly, gaps between your teeth (even minor ones) can also negatively impact your self-esteem and oral health. There is some good news, though: metal braces are no longer the only treatment option. With Invisalign, we can gradually close the gaps with a series of clear, custom-made aligners. Plus, the average treatment timeline with Invisalign is only 12-18 months, so you won’t have to wait 3+ years to achieve the results you desire!

Overbite

It’s no secret that Invisalign can straighten your teeth, but can Invisalign fix overbites? The answer is “yes!” So, if your upper teeth jut out beyond your lower ones more than they should, you may not need to wear metal brackets and wires. If you’re a candidate for Invisalign, then our Arlington Heights dental team can align your bite with clear, convenient, and custom-made aligners.

Underbite

Do your lower teeth sit in front of your upper ones? If so, you likely have an underbite. One of the many downsides of this orthodontic problem is that it can lower your self-esteem and increase your risk of dental damage. For those reasons alone, we recommend coming to our office to find out if you’re a candidate for Invisalign. If you are, then your orthodontic treatment will be basically invisible.

Crossbite

Crossbites are another orthodontic problem that can take a toll on your self-esteem, your oral health, and your speaking patterns. If this sounds all too familiar, then don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with us so we can assess the severity of your case and determine if Invisalign is right for you. If it is, then we will get to work creating your custom aligners, and you’ll be a big step closer to a healthier, happier smile.

Open Bite

If there is a space between your upper and lower teeth that’s preventing you from biting down, then you might have an open bite. The best way to find out is by scheduling an appointment at our office so we can complete a comprehensive oral exam. From there, your dentist will share their findings and talk with you in more detail about whether Invisalign is a fit for your dental needs and lifestyle.

Benefits of Invisalign

Compared to traditional braces, Invisalign is a breeze. Clear braces offer patients increased convenience, comfort, and privacy throughout their orthodontic treatment, and they don’t require any dietary restrictions. With traditional braces, patients have to steer clear of crunchy, hard, and sticky foods that can dislodge their brackets and wires. With Invisalign, you simply remove your trays before all meals and snacks to continue eating what you like. Here’s a brief guide to several of the other benefits that come with Invisalign treatment from Costello & DeHart Dental Excellence, but please contact our office if you would like to know more.

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Improved Comfort

Patients with metal sensitivities may be unable to receive traditional braces, but Invisalign clear aligners are free from pointy metal parts that can irritate your soft tissues. The smooth plastic of clear aligners won’t rub blisters into your cheeks, tongue, or gums. Typically, the only discomfort Invisalign patients experience happens when they switch to a new set of aligners, but this adjustment period is usually mild, lasts for only a day or two, and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

Discreet Trays

Casual acquaintances and colleagues are unlikely to ever notice your clear aligners since they are virtually invisible when worn, which can make Invisalign much more convenient for those who wish to maintain a stylish or professional appearance. This can also make the treatment excellent for those looking forward to a special social event such as a wedding or a graduation.

Better Dental Hygiene

Metal braces can make brushing and flossing difficult, but removable trays allow you to thoroughly clean your teeth without any special maneuvering or equipment. While you will need to thoroughly brush and floss after eating or drinking anything but water, being able to take your aligners out makes this process simple and hassle-free. In this way, Invisalign can reduce an orthodontic patient’s likelihood of developing tooth decay.

Quick Follow-Ups

Invisalign checkups happen every four to eight weeks, and they typically take about fifteen to thirty minutes. These brief and infrequent appointments allow us to make sure the treatment is progressing appropriately and provide you with new aligners when necessary, and they can make the treatment especially excellent for those with busy schedules at work or school.

Boosted Confidence

Invisalign trays are significantly less noticeable than traditional metal braces, which makes it easier to maintain a favorable appearance at work, during job interviews, or in social situations. This treatment can be great for teens since they tend to be quite image-conscious when socializing with peers.

Non-Invasive Treatment

Invisalign treatment is less invasive than traditional braces because it requires fewer changes to the patient’s daily life. They’ll be able to continue eating and practicing oral hygiene normally while smiling without worrying about people noticing their orthodontic appliances. Since Invisalign checkups do not take much time, the treatment can be great for people who are busy at school or work or who have dental anxiety.

Living with Invisalign Aligners

Living with Invisalign is not so different from what you are already used to. Indeed, Invisalign is designed to fit in with even very busy modern lifestyles. You and our team will discuss the particulars of your case in detail before you begin with Invisalign so you know exactly what you need to do in order to make a success out of your treatment. What are some of the specific guidelines that you will be expected to follow? Here is a basic overview:

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Wearing Your Trays

Your Invisalign aligners will work best when you keep them in your mouth for 20 – 22 hours a day. Remove them only when you eat, drink anything except water, or take care of your oral hygiene. The more consistently you wear your aligners, the faster you’ll see results. In contrast, if you frequently forget to wear your trays or neglect their use, your teeth will move more slowly than expected, and your future aligners might not even fit at all!

Cleaning Your Aligners

You want your aligners to stay clear and odor-free. Rinse them before each use and brush gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap daily. Stick to cool or lukewarm water — hot water can warp the plastic. Soak your aligners regularly in a cleansing solution like Invisalign cleaning crystals so they remain fresh and comfortable. Sticking to a thorough cleaning routine can keep your mouth healthy and your trays looking nearly invisible.

Eating & Drinking

When it comes to eating and drinking, Invisalign comes with fewer restrictions than traditional braces. In fact, you can eat virtually anything you want as long as your aligners are out of your mouth! Try to eat larger meals rather than snack often so you can minimize the amount of time that you are not wearing Invisalign. This habit can keep your treatment moving forward at a good pace.

Losing or Damaging a Tray

If you lose or damage a tray, contact our team promptly. We may tell you to wear your previous aligner to keep your teeth stable until we can replace the one that is no longer usable, or you might need to move forward to the next set of trays. Always wait for our guidance before switching trays early, as jumping ahead could cause discomfort.

Routine Check-Ins

You’ll visit us every 4 – 8 weeks for quick appointments that last 15 – 30 minutes. During each check-in, we will assess your progress and provide your next set of aligners. If you experience any issues or have any concerns, bring them up so we can address them immediately. These regular meetings support your treatment and keep you moving smoothly toward a confident, healthy smile.

How Much Does Invisalign Cost?

When discussing your options for achieving a straighter smile, the first question that comes to mind is probably “How much will it cost?” At Costello & DeHart Dental Excellence, we understand that the cost of a dental procedure is a great concern for most patients. With so many things vying for your money these days, it can be hard trying to decide what is the better investment. One thing to remember is that poor oral health can end up costing you more in the future. While it might not seem as big of a deal right now, it most certainly will be when you have no other option but to pay for dental work. When talking with one of our cosmetic dentists about the cost of Invisalign in Arlington Heights, they can not only discuss your treatment plan but also the financing options and dental insurance benefits. Take the first step in improving and investing in your smile by contacting us today for a consultation.

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What Factors Influence the Cost of Invisalign?

Each patient is different, which means the cost for Invisalign might not be the same for everyone. Different factors play a role in the overall cost. During your consultation with a dentist in Arlington Heights, you will not only learn about your plan, but you’ll also learn which factors make up the total cost of your Invisalign treatment. Some of these factors may include:

• How much your teeth need to shift, which can determine how many sets of aligners you’ll need
• If you need attachments to make treatment more effective
• If you need a top and bottom aligner

Is Invisalign Worth the Investment?

As the most popular alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign enables you to achieve the results you want in a discreet fashion. Not only are you finished with treatment more quickly than with metal braces, but it is the most flexible option for working professionals who do not wish to divulge their treatment. Here are a few other reasons why Invisalign is worth the investment:

• Increased self-esteem: Researchers have discovered a connection between low self-esteem and overall health. When stress and depression appear, it can cause inflammation, which, in turn, causes a weakened immune system. However, when you have increased confidence in your smile and overall self, you begin to produce calming hormones, positively impacting your overall health.
• Healthier mouth: Crooked teeth or a misaligned bite can lead to serious consequences for your oral health. From difficulty cleaning between your teeth to premature wear and tear or problems with TMJ, Invisalign can shift your teeth in the right direction, helping to prevent oral health problems from developing or worsening.
• Eat what you like: Traditional braces make it difficult to enjoy certain foods and often keep you from divulging in a delicious apple for fear of breaking a wire. But with Invisalign, you can remove your trays and eat whatever you prefer.
• Convenience: If you don’t want the hassle of extra time spent cleaning between wires and brackets, the cleaning process for Invisalign aligners is quick and easy. All you do is remove your aligners, brush them with clear soap and lukewarm water, and you’re done. Now, you’ll also need to brush and floss your teeth, but when it comes to the actual cleaning of your aligners, you can beat the convenience.

What Financial Options Are Available?

Depending on your plan, most insurance companies will pay for Invisalign treatment. However, if you don’t have insurance, Costello & DeHart Dental Excellence offers an in-office insurance plan that starts as low as $325 per year. This plan will cover most preventive services and provides discounts for cosmetic and restorative dentistry care.

If you’re concerned you won’t be able to afford Invisalign, talk to one of our Costello & DeHart Dental Excellence team members. They will help you file your insurance claims and discuss additional ways to make your dental goals affordable.

Visit a Cosmetic Dentist in Arlington Heights Today!

It’s not too late to enjoy the benefits of a straight, beautiful smile. If you are interested in learning whether or not your teeth can be straightened with Invisalign, we urge you to schedule an appointment at Costello & DeHart Dental Excellence. We can’t wait to help you smile your very best!

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