Have you ever looked in the mirror and wished your smile were straighter? Maybe you have a few overlapping teeth or a gap you have always wanted to close. But the thought of metal braces, wires, brackets, and dietary restrictions has held you back.
At West Ashley Family Dentistry, Dr. James Dickert and Dr. Agatha Lynn hear this from patients all the time. That is why they offer Invisalign. Here are answers to some of the most common questions patients ask about Invisalign in Charleston, SC.
Invisalign is a system of clear, custom-made aligners that gradually move your teeth into better alignment. Unlike metal braces, there are no brackets, wires, or tightening appointments.
You wear each set of aligners for about two weeks, then switch to the next set in the series. Over time, your teeth shift into their desired positions. The aligners are removable, so you can eat, brush, and floss normally.
Dr. Dickert and Dr. Lynn use digital imaging to plan your entire treatment before you even begin. You can see a preview of your new smile before committing to treatment.
Invisalign is ideal for teens and adults with mild to moderate orthodontic issues, including:
Before starting Invisalign, Dr. Dickert or Dr. Lynn will perform a thorough exam to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy. If you have cavities or gum disease, we will treat those issues first. A healthy foundation is essential for successful orthodontic treatment.
Most patients complete their Invisalign treatment in 12 to 18 months. The exact timeline depends on the complexity of your case and how consistently you wear your aligners.
For best results, you should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day. Remove them only to eat, drink anything other than water, and brush and floss.
You may feel some mild discomfort or pressure when you switch to a new set of aligners. This is normal because it means the aligners are working. The discomfort usually fades within a few days.
Compared to traditional braces, Invisalign is generally more comfortable. No metal brackets or wires will poke your cheeks and gums.
Yes, with one important rule: remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water.
When your aligners are out, you can eat whatever you like. No restrictions on popcorn, nuts, or chewy candy. Just be sure to brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in to prevent food particles and bacteria from getting trapped.
Drinking only water while wearing your aligners helps prevent staining and keeps them clear.
Cleaning your aligners is simple. Rinse them every time you take them out. Brush them gently with a soft toothbrush and clear, antibacterial soap or the Invisalign cleaning crystals. Do not use toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and scratch the aligners.
Also, remember to brush and floss your teeth before reinserting your aligners. This prevents food particles from getting trapped and causing cavities.
Many dental insurance plans cover Invisalign at the same rate as traditional braces. Coverage varies by plan. Our team will verify your benefits and explain your out-of-pocket costs before you begin treatment.
We also offer flexible financing options to make Invisalign affordable for families in Charleston.
Dr. James Dickert and Dr. Agatha Lynn bring more than clinical expertise to your Invisalign treatment. They bring a philosophy of “Complete Dentistry” from The Dawson Academy that looks at your entire chewing system.
Before recommending Invisalign, they evaluate your bite, your jaw joints, and how your teeth come together. This comprehensive approach ensures that your straighter smile is also stable, healthy, and comfortable.
As a husband-and-wife team, they take the time to listen, explain your options, and build a treatment plan that fits your life.
If you have been hiding your smile because of crooked or gapped teeth, Invisalign could be the solution you have been looking for.
Call West Ashley Family Dentistry today at (843) 371-5480 or request an appointment online. Dr. James Dickert and Dr. Agatha Lynn would love to meet you and help you achieve the smile you have always wanted.
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