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Home Archive for Category: Invisalign

Mar 28 2018

A Cost Breakdown of Invisalign on Long Island

Jacky Gale

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Invisalign

Invisalign

Orthodontic treatment has a reputation for being pricey, and it’s not always fully covered by insurance. But don’t let that stop you from consulting a cosmetic dentist about your crooked or crowded teeth. You might be surprised at just how affordable it can be to get Invisalign teeth straightening in Long Island.

Know that costs do vary from patient to patient, and depend on many different factors. To find out how much your Invisalign treatment will cost at our practice, you can schedule a consult with Dr. Nick or Dr. Elliot.

Typical range of orthodontic costs

The cost of orthodontic treatment varies widely. Conventional metal braces, for example, average over $5,000. Ceramic braces can cost nearly $5,000, but they’re also prone to breaking, which would require additional expense. Lingual braces aren’t widely offered, and they can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $13,000 or even more.

Given these significant expenses, it’s commonly thought that Invisalign treatment is even pricier, as it’s a technologically advanced system. But actually, Invisalign costs are comparable to those of conventional metal braces– and sometimes even less. This is impressive considering that Invisalign is often the preferred method because it’s discreet, convenient and comfortable.

Assessing insurance coverage

Since dental plans aren’t universal, you’ll need to consult your insurance carrier about your specific policy to determine coverage. Unless you’re an accomplished interpreter of insurance policy jargon, it may be best to call the company directly. Let the representative know that you specifically want Invisalign treatment, and find out what’s covered. Some insurance plans may cover a couple thousand dollars or more toward the cost of Invisalign treatment.

Considering your orthodontic requirements

Your total cost can depend on the length of your treatment, as this determines how many Invisalign trays you’ll need. And the length of your treatment depends on the complexity and severity of your malocclusion. If you only have minor alignment issues that can be fixed quickly, your estimate will be on the lower end of the cost range (anywhere from $2,500 to $3,000 on average). You’ll need to visit a cosmetic dentist for an evaluation.

Using pre-tax dollars

One smart way to lower the cost of your Invisalign treatment is to use your pre-tax dollars. Your employer may offer a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA). You can choose to contribute a portion of your wages to your account, before taxes are taken out. You’ll be able to use your pre-tax dollars toward healthcare costs, such as dental treatments like Invisalign.

Invisalign providers in Long Island

You can get a personalized estimate for Invisalign during your one-on-one consultation at Long Island Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry in Suffolk County. Dr. Nick or Dr. Elliot will conduct an in-depth smile examination, explain the treatment process, and answer any questions you might have.

Our office focuses on providing a positive, stress-free dental experience for our valued patients. Give us a call today at 631.319.7891, and let us know you’re curious about getting Invisalign in Rocky Point, NY.

Additional resources for Invisalign patients

  1. Colgate, What Do Invisalign Braces Cost? Are They Worth It? https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/adult-orthodontics/what-do-invisalign-braces-cost-are-they-worth-it-0113
  2. Angie’s List, How Much Do Adult Braces Cost? https://www.angieslist.com/articles/how-much-do-adult-braces-cost.htm

Author Info

Jacky Gale

Mar 17 2018

How to Clean Your Invisalign Trays: Dos and Don’ts

Jacky Gale

, ,

Invisalign

invisalign clear aligners

Invisalign is among the most popular teeth straightening systems. Patients tend to prefer it as an alternative to metal braces because the aligners are discreet. In fact, they are virtually invisible, and they can be easily removed for restriction-free eating and thorough cleaning. Your cosmetic dentist will give you instructions for cleaning your Invisalign aligners, but here’s a quick primer to help you become familiar with the dos and don’ts.

Do brush your teeth too

Each time you enjoy a meal, you should brush your teeth for at least two minutes. Placing your aligners back in without brushing your teeth isn’t a good idea because the aligners prevent saliva from reaching them. Saliva is necessary to wash away food particles and bacteria. In other words, if you don’t brush your teeth too, they’ll be bathing in bacteria inside the aligners. Maximize your oral health by flossing each time you brush.

Don’t use toothpaste on your aligners

Toothpaste is too abrasive for the aligners. Instead, some dentists recommend using a mild, antibacterial hand soap or dish soap. (Only use mild cleaning products!) Use a soft-bristled toothbrush—preferably, a different one than the toothbrush you use on your teeth—and gently clean the aligners.

Do multitask

Another option is to let your aligners soak in a cleansing solution while you eat. You could try denture cleaner, but some patients think this makes the plastic look cloudy. Another option is Retainer Brite, which is formulated differently than denture cleaner, making it more plastic-friendly.

Other Invisalign patients prefer soaking the aligners in mouthwash. If you try this, choose a clear mouthwash, like a whitening solution. Even cheaper options are hydrogen peroxide and vinegar. Make a half-water, half-hydrogen peroxide mixture (or a 50-50 water and vinegar mixture) and let the aligners take a bath while you eat.

Whichever method you choose, always be sure to rinse the aligners very well before putting them back in your mouth.

Don’t use hot water

From an early age, we’re taught that washing things in hot water is best for killing germs. But this isn’t necessarily the case, and in fact, hot water is damaging to aligners. It will warp the plastic, and you’ll need another pair of aligners made. Only use cool water or mildly lukewarm water.

Don’t shy away from dining out

Keeping up with your cleaning routine can be more challenging when you’re going out to a restaurant or traveling, or if you’re an on-campus student who relies on the dining halls. Don’t let this stop you from taking good care of your teeth. Simply go into the restroom, discreetly remove your aligners, and store them safely in their case. When you’re done eating, you can return to the restroom to clean your teeth and your aligners.

When it’s time to transform your smile, get in touch with Dr. Nick or Dr. Elliot—two experienced and friendly Invisalign dentists on Long Island. We pride ourselves on extensive patient education, and we’ll be happy to introduce you to life with Invisalign. Contact Long Island Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry at 631-296-0588. Our modern dental office in Suffolk County is committed to unsurpassed patient care within a comfortable setting.

Additional resources for Invisalign patients

  1. Invisalign, Living with Invisalign Clear Aligners, https://www.invisalign.com/how-invisalign-works/living-with-invisalign
  2. Invisalign, Is Invisalign Treatment Right for You? https://www.invisalign.com/get-started/is-invisalign-right-for-me?variation=1

Author Info

Jacky Gale

Feb 05 2018

How to Keep Your Teeth Clean with Invisalign

Ava Lawson

, ,

Invisalign

invisalign clear aligners

When you feel good about your smile, you project confidence to those around you. Thanks to Invisalign, you can achieve your goals of having beautiful, straight teeth in a way that is comfortable and doesn’t disrupt your lifestyle. These clear plastic aligners are one of the best things you can do for your teeth, and compared to other orthodontic treatments, they are incredibly discreet. Get the teeth straightening benefits of traditional braces without the mouthful of metal. It doesn’t take long to see noticeable results with the Invisalign system, and the removable trays mean there are no restrictions on what you can eat!

Invisalign may be the teeth straightening treatment of choice nowadays, but there are a few caveats to consider when it comes to keeping your teeth clean and plaque free. Most people can get away with a 2-minute brush and floss session twice a day, but during your Invisalign treatment, you’ll want to set aside some extra time for oral care. This is a tiny price to pay for maintaining plaque-free teeth while correcting those orthodontic problems.

Sweep away odor-causing bacteria and keep your teeth ultra clean by following these 5 simple tips.

Brush teeth after every meal

You’ve just polished off a delicious sandwich and fries and could do so without worrying about food sticking in your “braces.” The fact that the aligners can be removed while eating/drinking is one of the greatest advantages of the Invisalign treatment. However, it’s essential to brush your teeth after every single meal – or sugary drink –before reinserting the trays. Why? Food particles trapped between the teeth and the aligners are the perfect recipe for foul-smelling bacteria, plaque build-up and an increased risk of dental problems.

Floss and Rinse

Equally important is to maintain a steady regimen of flossing after meals. It’s easy to do after brushing and goes a long way toward maintaining oral hygiene. In the event that you are pressed for time or simply cannot brush and floss, the next best option is rinsing your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash – preferably one that is alcohol-free. When this isn’t feasible, swish your mouth with a glass of cool water before reinserting the aligner.

Only drink water while wearing your trays

Always take your Invisalign trays out if you are drinking any beverage other than water. Juice and energy drinks contain lots of sugar that will sit on the enamel for hours, potentially leading to tooth decay. Other beverages like coffee, wine and soda can stain the aligners along with your teeth.

Clean the Invisalign trays before reinserting

Just like a sports guard or retainer, Invisalign trays need regular cleaning to prevent bacterial growth and unpleasant odors. Before popping them back into your mouth, take an extra 30 seconds to gently brush the aligners with lukewarm water. This removes any residue and will help keep your teeth clean. Ask your dentist about denture bath soaks and other specialty products that disinfect and remove bacteria from  Invisalign trays.

Stay hydrated

Sipping water throughout the day is one of the easiest things you can do for your overall health and your teeth! In addition to removing cavity-causing bacteria, water helps increase saliva production, which helps fight dry mouth and risk of tooth decay.

Learn more about Invisalign in Suffolk County

If you want to improve your smile without traditional braces, our Suffolk County Invisalign providers invite you to schedule a free consultation. Here at Long Island Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry, we’ll explain everything you need to know about Invisalign and dental care during treatment.

We are conveniently located in Rocky Point and look forward to answering your questions today!

More Information on Invisalign & Oral Care:

  1. Invisalign, Living with Invisalign Aligners https://www.invisalign.com/how-invisalign-works/living-with-invisalign
  2. Real Self, Invisalign: How to Eat when Can’t Brush Right Away? https://www.realself.com/question/invisalign-eat-brush
  3. Shape, 10 Invisalign Truths to Know Before You Try https://www.shape.com/lifestyle/beauty-style/10-invisalign-truths-know-you-try

Author Info

Ava Lawson

Jan 04 2018

Invisalign Attachments: Your Questions Answered

Sarah Klein

,

Invisalign

Invisalign

Roughly four million Americans wear braces, and about one-quarter of these are adults. Invisalign provides an alternative to traditional metal braces. These clear aligners are invisible to the eye, making them especially attractive solutions for those who are conscious about appearances. We find that many teens, adults and seniors have questions about Invisalign, including about the bumps, buttons, bands and other attachments that are sometimes required.

What Are the Attachments and What Is Their Purpose?

Attachments are small sticky dots about the same shade as the color of teeth. These are placed at certain points on the teeth to provide a firmer grip for the aligner and prevent it from slipping off. The attachments serve as the anchor points that are required for applying the force of the aligner.

Similarly, there are also buttons. These are miniature brackets that also act as anchors so the dentist can add rubber bands at regular intervals of the treatment. The rubber bands are small elastics that provide additional force to move the teeth and align them in their proper position in the jaw. There are also bumps that serve a similar purpose. Bumps are small dabs placed near the center of the teeth and apply extra rotational force. This helps straighten teeth twisted at an angle.

Will I Need Invisalign Attachments?

Aligners often require additional auxiliaries, such as attachments, buttons, bumps, and rubber bands to help straighten the teeth. Depending on the extent of teeth misalignment, the aligner on its own may not provide the necessary pressure to push the teeth back in position. An examination from an orthodontist will determine whether your aligner requires these additional add-ons.

Do Invisalign Attachments Cost Extra?

Invisalign cost varies depending on the complexity of your specific needs. Normally, the cost of attachments and other additions, such as bands and buttons, is higher than if you only need the aligner itself. Only your orthodontist can determine the final cost after an evaluation has been performed.

Do Attachments Hurt?

The aligner and attachments do not cause major pain or discomfort. The attachments, though, may feel slightly awkward and out of place at first. Aligners and attachments are not designed to be a perfect and snug fit. They’re supposed to feel a bit strange, especially at the point of the misaligned teeth. The aligner is shaped to how your teeth are supposed to appear once they’re straightened out, and not how your teeth are currently positioned.

Can the Attachments Be Removed?

Your orthodontist may remove them if a specific treatment is required. However, you should not make any attempts to remove the attachment at home. DIY removal may cause damage to the underlying tooth enamel the attachment is anchored to.

Can You Eat with the Attachments On?

Yes, you can eat with attachments on. Just be aware that food at times may get caught in and around the attachments. We recommend brushing after eating and before you put the aligner back on.

Contact Us for a Consultation

Contact LI Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry for a consultation with one of our Long Island Invisalign Dentists. An initial examination will determine whether you require an aligner with an additional attachment and other add-ons.

Additional “Invisalign Attachment” Resources:

  1. Real Self, What Are Invisalign Buttons and Where Are They Attached?, https://www.realself.com/question/what-invisalign-buttons-and-where-they-attached
  2. Health, 11 Things I Wish I’d Known Before I Got Invisalign, http://www.health.com/beauty/11-things-i-wish-id-known-before-i-got-invisalign

Author Info

Sarah Klein

Dec 11 2017

Can I Eat Whatever I Want with Invisalign?

Jacky Gale

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Invisalign

invisalign clear aligners

One of the reasons why so many people prefer Invisalign over metal braces is that these clear aligners are removable. You’ll take them out before each meal and snack. This means that there’s no need to worry about crunchy, chewy, sticky, or hard foods damaging any part of your aligners. Essentially, you can eat whatever you want when your aligners aren’t in your mouth. Of course, any orthodontic treatment will affect your eating habits. Talk to a cosmetic dentist to find out what you can expect from daily life with Invisalign.

Enjoying a varied meal plan with Invisalign

Do you eat popcorn, chips, nuts, pretzels, crunchy cookies, hard taco shells, croutons, and thin crust pizza? You can’t eat these foods for the entire duration of your treatment with conventional metal braces—but you can with Invisalign! How about raw vegetables, apples and other fruit, burgers, sub sandwiches, and corn on the cob? If you had metal braces, you’d have to cut these items into very small pieces in order to eat them without damaging the oral hardware. Unless you enjoy the thought of eating a burger or a sub sandwich with a knife and fork, you’ll probably resent the dietary restrictions associated with metal braces.

With Invisalign clear aligners, you can discreetly pop out your aligners and place them securely in their special case before sitting down to enjoy your meal. Eat whatever you want, with no restrictions whatsoever. Then, brush your teeth, give your aligners a quick rinse or a thorough brushing, and pop them back in.

As an added bonus, many Invisalign patients find that they lose an unwanted inch or two around the midsection during their treatment, since the aligners dramatically reduce snacking between meals.

Taking care of your aligners

Your Invisalign treatment will consist of a series of aligners, and you’ll wear each set for about two weeks. It’s important to wear them for the length of time each day recommended by your cosmetic dentist. This is generally at least 20 hours each day. Because of this, it’s a good idea to consume hot beverages like coffee and tea, and pigmented beverages like juice or wine while you’re eating a meal. You’ll have to remove your aligners before consuming these beverages between meals. This is particularly important for hot beverages, because hot temperatures will warp the plastic. Pigmented beverages will stain the aligners, so stick to water or seltzer water when you’re wearing your aligners.

Adjusting to new aligners

There is no question that Invisalign aligners are far more comfortable than metal braces. There are no wires to come loose and poke your gums or cheeks, for instance. However, each time you put in a new set of aligners, they’ll feel tighter. This is because they’re gradually guiding your teeth in the right direction. For a brief period, your mouth may feel a little sore as you adjust to the new aligners. During this time, consider dining on mostly soft foods, such as oatmeal, soup, yogurt, and pudding.

Your source for Invisalign treatment on Long Island

Dr. Elliot and Dr. Nick at Long Island Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry welcome new and current patients who are curious about straightening their smiles with Invisalign treatment. Our practice regularly offers free initial consultations, so get in touch today to schedule yours! Call our Long Island Invisalign dentistry staff today.

Additional resources on eating with Invisalign:

  1. Invisalign, Living with Invisalign Aligners, https://www.invisalign.com/how-invisalign-works/living-with-invisalign
  2. Invisalign, The Invisalign Advantage, https://www.invisalign.com/why-invisalign/invisalign-advantage

Author Info

Jacky Gale

Oct 25 2017

Had Braces As a Kid? Why You May Need Them Again

Ava Lawson

,

Invisalign

Here at Long Island Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry, we often get patients who are unhappy with the straightness of their teeth, despite having worn braces as a teen. It seems unfair to many adults who endured one or two years of “metal mouth” only to find their smiles – sometimes years down the road — less than perfect.

Is it normal for teeth to move after braces are taken off? And, more importantly, what can be done to prevent this?

One of the most crucial aspects to a successful orthodontic treatment is what you do after the braces come off. That’s right, we’re talking about your retainer, which should be worn nightly for a prescribed time period to keep teeth in position. Most kids are so thrilled to be free of metal contraptions that retainer compliance rates are low. For those who didn’t wear their retainer or stopped using it prematurely, it’s not unusual for the teeth to shift back out of alignment.

How long do retainers need to be worn?

For retainers to do their job correctly, they should actually be worn for the rest of your life! This is neither practical or convenient for most people, which is why they eventually find their way into the bottom of your closet. Retainers ensure that your bite stays in place after orthodontics. After your braces are removed, your teeth will continue to move, slowly shifting inward or outward throughout your lifetime.  Properly fitted retainers help to minimize this movement, keeping your new and improved smile picture perfect.

Why do teeth move?

Even if you were a stellar patient and wore your retainer diligently after braces, your teeth can still shift with time. This is because our bite changes ever so slightly as we get older. The width and space inside of your mouth is affected by your changing facial muscles and jaw muscles which exert pressure on the teeth. In some cases, the teeth move into misalignment again, leading to aesthetic and functional problems.

Fortunately, there is good news for those who need braces a second time around. Effective orthodontic treatment no longer entails a mouthful or wires and headgear at night, thanks to the Invisalign system.

Correcting teeth with Invisalign

If you had braces as a kid and now find yourself with crooked teeth, Invisalign is a discreet and comfortable way to improve your smile as an adult. Using 3D computer technology, your Suffolk County Invisalign provider will have clear plastic trays custom made to fit over your teeth. The transparent aligners are hardly noticeable, making them advantageous to working professionals who don’t relish the idea of a mouthful of metal. Another major advantage of this teeth straightening system is the fact that the Invisalign trays are removable, letting patients pop them out during meals, for brushing and flossing, as well as for the special occasion.

Invisalign also depends on patient compliance, as the trays need to be worn for a minimum of 20-22 hours a day to ensure optimal results.

Cosmetic dentistry in Suffolk County

Whether you didn’t wear your retainer as a teen, or need a second round of orthodontic treatment, you can still achieve a dazzling smile the second time around! Invisalign has helped thousands of adults get the smile they’ve always dreamed of, without the discomfort or hassle of traditional braces.

Contact Long Island Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry for a free consultation about your smile makeover. Dr. Elliot and Dr. Nick will outline the best treatment options to achieve your goals. Call 631.296.0588 today!

Additional Resources:

  1. Lavender Magazine, Do You Think You’re Too Old For Orthodontics? Think Again! https://www.lavendermagazine.com/our-lives/do-you-think-youre-too-old-for-orthodontics-think-again/
  2. Invisalign, Why Invisalign https://www.invisalign.com/
  3. Cosmopolitan, The Surprising Reason Why You Might Need Adult Braces http://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/how-to/a17118/adult-braces/

Author Info

Ava Lawson

Oct 20 2017

Crossbite Correction: 4 Treatment Options

Jacky Gale

, ,

Invisalign

invisalign clear aligners

The umbrella term for misaligned teeth is malocclusion, of which there are many types. Crossbite is the type of malocclusion that occurs when one or more teeth on one jaw don’t line up properly with the corresponding teeth on the lower jaw. For example, when a patient with crossbite brings the jaws together, a front tooth may rest slightly inside the corresponding tooth on the lower jaw. “Inside” refers to the side of the tooth closest to the tongue, rather than the lips.

Crossbite is a serious type of malocclusion that requires treatment. Otherwise, it can be associated with other dental complications, including temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD), gum recession, worn down tooth enamel, and loosening of the teeth. It can even result in asymmetry of the face and jaw. Fortunately, there are effective ways to correct crossbite. The treatment option a dentist may recommend depends in part on the patient’s age.

1. Palatal Expander

A palatal expander may be used on children who are still growing. As the name suggests, it quite literally expands the upper palate. It’s an oral appliance firmly attached to the upper palate. Patients are instructed to use a special “key” inserted into a tiny hole in the device. The correct application of the key slightly expands the appliance, which in turn, gradually widens the upper palate and encourages the correct alignment of the teeth. After this treatment is completed, patients will generally wear braces or Invisalign trays.

2. Head Gear

Head gear is probably the least desirable option in terms of aesthetics. It’s usually only recommended for children and teens, as it’s intended to either increase or decrease the rate at which the jaws grow. Head gear consists of a device worn on the head and face, which attaches to the teeth with precisely placed wires. The device is removable, but must be worn for the prescribed number of hours each day in order to be effective.

3. Dental Restorations

If the teeth are only slightly misaligned, then a cosmetic surgeon may recommend certain restorations. Capping the affected teeth with crowns or adding bonding material to reshape the teeth may be good options, especially if the patient is an adult who won’t respond well to palatal expansion.

4. Invisalign

Invisalign is another excellent option for adults and teens with crossbite, especially for those who want good results without having to undergo oral surgery or wear bulky oral appliances. Invisalign treatment involves wearing a series of clear, custom-made aligners. Patients will switch to the next aligner in the series about every two weeks. Invisalign is as effective as metal braces for correcting malocclusion, and patients won’t have to worry about having that “metal mouth” look.

Long Island Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry is pleased to be an authorized provider of the popular Invisalign clear aligners in Suffolk County, NY for patients who desire a straighter, more functional and beautiful smile. Dr. Nick and Dr. Elliot offer a full suite of dentistry services in Long Island, NY, including children’s dentistry and oral surgery. Get in touch today at 631.319.7891 and let us know how we can help you love your smile again.

More information on crossbite correction:

  1. Colgate, Crossbite Correction: How to Straighten Your Smile, http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/adult-orthodontics/article/crossbite-correction-how-to-straighten-your-smile-0916
  2. American Dental Association, Malocclusion, http://www.ada.org/en/science-research/dental-practice-parameters/malocclusion

Author Info

Jacky Gale

Sep 13 2017

Are You a Good Candidate for Invisalign?

Ava Lawson

,

Invisalign

Have you always wanted a dazzling, movie-star smile? You’re not alone in the quest for straighter, more beautiful teeth, and Invisalign can help most patients get there.  This groundbreaking system uses a series of custom-made plastic aligners that gradually shift teeth into correct alignment. Invisalign is comfortable, virtually invisible and very effective for most orthodontic issues. While Invisalign is a convenient way to improve your smile without the hassle and discomfort of bulky metal braces, it’s not recommended for everyone.

Whether you have crowding issues, an overbite, or just a few crooked teeth, the best way to find out if you’re a candidate is by seeing a qualified Invisalign provider on Long Island. Until then, here are a few variables that can help determine if Invisalign is right for you.

Are you dedicated?

Improving your smile doesn’t happen overnight. While it’s true that Invisalign is much easier than conventional braces, the system still takes discipline. The aligners, which can be removed during meal times and while brushing, must be worn for a minimum of 20-22 hours a day, and post-treatment retainers may be necessary. If you’re not dedicated to following Invisalign treatment protocols, the system won’t work.

How severe are your orthodontic issues?

Your candidacy for Invisalign will also depend on the severity of dental problems to be addressed. Patients with crooked teeth, or those with crowding or spacing issues are generally great candidates for Invisalign. However, if you have a deep underbite, a pronounced overbite or teeth requiring more than 45 degrees of rotation, your dentist may recommend traditional braces for more predictable results.

Other cases in which metal braces may be more effective than Invisalign:

  • Severe malocclusion
  • Alignment issues involving impacted teeth
  • Significant gaps between teeth exceeding 6 mm

Generally speaking, the less severe the orthodontic problem, the more likely that Invisalign will work – even for people with dental implants and other restorations.

Are your teeth and gums healthy?

Healthy teeth and gums are extremely important before starting any type of orthodontic treatment. Gingivitis and/or gum disease can worsen with use of Invisalign or metal braces, which is why all periodontal concerns must be resolved first.

Are there age restrictions?

Short answer: no. Invisalign can be a wonderful alternative to conventional braces for both teenagers and adults well into their Golden Years. However, younger patients (typically under 13) whose teeth are still actively growing will have to wait until growth stops before beginning treatment.

Schedule your Invisalign consult today!

Still unsure if you’re a good candidate? Dr. Nick and Dr. Elliott are experienced Long Island Invisalign Providers who welcome the opportunity to help new patients on their way to a beautiful smile. Find out if Invisalign is the right match for you – call today for a free consult!

Additional Resources on Invisalign Candidacy:

  1. Invisalign, Invisalign® Smile Assessment https://www.invisalign.com/smile-assessment
  2. RealSelf, Candidate + Invisalign https://www.realself.com/invisalign/answers/candidate

Author Info

Ava Lawson

Sep 08 2017

How Long Does Invisalign Take?

Ava Lawson

,

Invisalign

If you are like most people considering Invisalign, you’re probably wondering how long the treatment takes, especially if you’re trying to improve your smile for a special occasion. This revolutionary teeth straightening system has become increasingly popular among teens and adults who want to look their best for an upcoming wedding, a college graduation, or another milestone event.

For many of our patients, Invisalign is a great alternative to traditional braces, offering a more comfortable and convenient way to fix common dental issues. One of the primary benefits of Invisalign aligners is that they often take less time than metal braces, as the trays don’t have to be worn round-the-clock, 24/7. In fact, patients are allowed to take the aligners out during meals, while brushing their teeth, and for the occasional social gathering.

How long does Invisalign take?

So, how long does the Invisalign system take to make your pearly whites look their absolute best? The short answer: it all depends. Because each patient has their own unique set of orthodontic issues, treatment times will vary from case to case. That said, the typical duration for an adult Invisalign treatment ranges between 10 and 15 months.  Using these numbers, Invisalign – on average—will take up to one year to provide desired results. With adolescent patients, treatment time will also hinge on their needs in addition to how diligent they are wearing their Teen Invisalign aligners and following their dentist’s instructions.

The aligners – which are translucent and virtually undetectable — are custom-made and worn for approximately two weeks at a time. On average, the typical adult patient will wear between 20 and 35 sets of Invisalign aligners.

In sum, most Invisalign treatments take about one year. By contrast, the average treatment time for traditional braces is up to 24 months.

Invisalign Refinement

In some cases, patients who have already finished an Invisalign treatment may want additional refinement to fine-tune their results. The goal is to optimize the position of the teeth by using additional aligners. For minor adjustments, patients may need three or four sets of aligners (up to two months), while more substantial enhancements can add up to three months to the total treatment time.

Invisalign Express: shorter duration

Invisalign Express is a fantastic option for qualified patients who want a fast yet effective way to correct minor aesthetic concerns. Invisalign Express is treatment that can be completed in three to six months, and is recommended for patients who require minor adjustments for crowding and spacing issues. While not recommended for everyone, Invisalign Express is often successful in patients who previously wore metal braces and need help correcting teeth that moved out of place. This system is much quicker and available in 5 or 10 stage options.

Feel confident about your smile

Here at Long Island Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry, we want our patients to feel confident about their smiles. If you are looking for an experienced Invisalign Provider in Suffolk County, we invite you to reach out for free consultation today.  Use our online form or call our Rocky Point office at 631.296.0549. 

Additional Invisalign Treatment Time Resources:

  1. Invisalign, Frequently Asked Questions https://www.invisalign.com/frequently-asked-questions
  2. Invisalign, Treatment Options http://provider.invisalign.com/product_details/treatment_options
  3. Real Self, How Does Invisalign Express Work? https://www.realself.com/question/how-does-invisalign-express-work

Author Info

Ava Lawson

Aug 08 2017

3 Surprising Habits That Cause Crooked Teeth

Jacky Gale

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Invisalign

TMJ graphic of jaw

Crooked teeth are often blamed on genetics, but a surprising number of cases of malocclusion may be at least partially attributable to everyday habits. To understand the impact of these habits, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of how the teeth move. They can move in two primary ways: Forcefully and suddenly, or gradually over time. Facial trauma, for example, can cause a tooth to drastically move in very little time. But it really doesn’t take much pressure for the teeth to shift; all that’s required is for the pressure to be applied for a substantial length of time. These habits are one reason why your teeth can shift out of place after orthodontic treatment, and why a bite alignment that was nearly normal in adolescence can become gradually worse over time.

1. Sleeping on your stomach

The majority of people sleep on their sides. Lying on one’s back is the second-most popular position, with the least common position being sleeping on the stomach. This last sleep habit is the most destructive—both in terms of neck pain and bite alignment. If you sleep on your face, the gentle pressure exerted on your teeth for hours every night is sufficient to shift them out of their proper alignment.

The best way to address this problem is to try sleeping on your back or side. Pile up extra pillows alongside your body to keep yourself in the right position. If you just can’t manage to fall asleep, consider looking for a pillow designed especially for stomach sleepers. It should feature cut-out areas for your mouth and nose, with support to either side.

2. Slouching

Slouching is another bad habit that can contribute to malocclusion over time. Specifically, slouching forward to rest your chin in your hand can exert gentle, yet steady pressure on your oral structures. It can also contribute to back pain, headaches, jaw pain, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.

3. Biting your lip

Oral habits of compulsion include nervous habits that people often engage in without realizing they’re doing it. Examples include tongue thrusting, lip biting or sucking, and thumb-sucking. Just like slouching and resting your chin in your hand, and like sleeping on your stomach, these oral habits of compulsion can lead to bite misalignment over time.

Tongue thrusting can be particularly problematic, as people often don’t realize they’re doing it. Tongue thrusting isn’t necessarily the active pushing of the tongue against the teeth. Rather, it means the tongue is improperly positioned while at rest. When you aren’t speaking or eating, your tongue should rest gently against your upper palate, with the tip of the tongue just behind your front teeth.

Get the smile you deserve

Whether you never had orthodontic aligners before, or your teeth have shifted out of place after your treatment, we can help you. Make an appointment for a consultation with Dr. Nick and Dr. Elliot at Long Island Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry, and let us know how we can help you get a smile you’ll love. We’re proud Invisalign providers and smile makeover experts. Call our Suffolk County cosmetic dentistry office at 631.296.0588.

More on what causes crooked teeth:

  1. American Dental Association, Malocclusion, http://www.ada.org/en/science-research/dental-practice-parameters/malocclusion
  2. Stanford Children’s Health, Malocclusion, http://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=malocclusion-90-P01860

Author Info

Jacky Gale