Invisible or clear aligners for orthodontic treatment have revolutionized the patient experience.
Dr. James Dickert and Dr. Agatha Lynn are experienced Charleston Invisalign® providers who help teen and adult patients achieve beautiful, healthier smiles. Invisalign treatment is discreet, comfortable, and effective. It’s perfect for patients who want straighter teeth without the look and hassle of metal braces.
With years of experience providing cosmetic dental care in Charleston, SC, Dr. Dickert and Dr. Lynn have helped countless Charleston patients transform their smiles. They take time to understand your goals, create personalized treatment plans, and support you through every step of your journey.
What Can Invisalign Treat?
Dr. Dickert and Dr. Lynn recommend Invisalign for teens and adults with mild to moderate orthodontic concerns, including:
- Crooked teeth
- Overcrowding
- Small gaps between teeth
- Crossbite
- Overbite
During your consultation, our dentists will perform a thorough exam to see if Invisalign is right for you. Dr. Dickert and Dr. Lynn will consider your health, budget, and goals before recommending treatment. If you’re a good candidate, our dentists will create your custom treatment plan.
Invisalign® vs Metal Braces
Straightening your teeth will support your long-term dental health by avoiding gum disease, in addition to providing the smile you have always wanted. Metal braces are the conventional treatment, but they have many disadvantages compared to Invisalign. Invisible aligners alleviate many of the hassles associated with traditional metal braces, including:
- The duration of treatment can be shorter
- There are no dietary restrictions
- They are more comfortable and removable
- With clear aligners, the treatment is discreet
- There are no risks of tooth enamel staining from permanently attached brackets
- You don’t have to worry about food getting stuck in the metal brackets
Orthodontic treatment with Invisalign clear aligners offers several key benefits for teen and adult patients:
- The invisible aligners are made of a smooth material that does not irritate the gums and soft tissues of the mouth.
- The aligners are removable for daily oral hygiene and enjoying foods and beverages without restriction.
- Treatment is generally completed in 12-15 months and maintained with a retainer.
The Invisalign Process at Our Charleston Dental Office
Your journey begins with a consultation. Dr. Dickert or Dr. Lynn will evaluate your dental health and discuss whether Invisalign is a good fit for your needs and goals. If Invisalign is right for you, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan and include the length and cost of your care.
Next, we take digital impressions using advanced iTero scanning technology. This creates precise 3D images of your teeth without using messy impressions. You’ll even get a preview of your new smile before treatment begins!
The scans are sent to the Invisalign lab, where your custom aligners are fabricated. When they arrive, you’ll return to our office to try them on and receive instructions on how to wear them. Most patients wear each set of aligners for 20-22 hours per day, changing to a new set every two weeks.
You won’t need to visit the office for every aligner change. We’ll provide a clear schedule and schedule checkups to monitor your progress.
Invisalign FAQs: Your Charleston Dentists Answer Common Questions
Do you want to know more about treatment? We’re here to help. Read answers to common questions about Invisalign treatment in Charleston, SC.
How quick is Invisalign treatment?
The length of Invisalign treatment depends on a few factors. One of the biggest factors is how severe your misalignment, or malocclusion, is. If your teeth are only slightly crooked, treatment may take as little as 6 months. More complex cases, like significant crowding or bite issues, can take 12-18 months.
Another important factor is how closely you follow our dentist’s instructions. Invisalign aligners need to be worn for 20 – 22 hours a day, and each set of aligners is usually worn for one to two weeks before switching to the next set. Skipping time or not wearing them enough can delay your results. Our dentists will create a detailed plan, so you know what to expect and can track your progress.
Is Invisalign painful?
No. Invisalign gently repositions the teeth as the aligners are changed out, causing minimal to no discomfort as your new smile slowly emerges. You can remove them daily to thoroughly brush and floss your teeth. Cleaning reduces the risk of tooth decay and staining associated with traditional metal braces.
Is wearing a retainer necessary after Invisalign?
Yes. A retainer is the best way to keep your teeth straight after any orthodontic treatment. We’ll provide personalized oral hygiene advice during your treatment. We always recommend using a retainer long-term to keep your smile straight and functioning optimally.
Can I accelerate my Invisalign treatment?
No, don’t try to quicken your treatment on your own. You may think that when you’re no longer sore after changing to a new set of aligners, you’re good to change to a new set. This isn’t true. Your gum tissue and bones take time to adjust to the new positioning. Going too fast can loosen your teeth and even cause them to fall out.
What happens if I don’t wear my aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day?
If you don’t wear the aligners for the recommended amount of time, it lengthens your treatment. There’s a reason why they need to be on your teeth for that long. Without it, the teeth won’t be in the correct position.
Am I a good candidate for Invisalign?
Patients with mild to moderate orthodontic concerns are ideal candidates for Invisalign treatment. If you have more severe orthodontic issues, you may need orthodontic appliances or metal braces. You also have to be responsible enough to wear the aligners for the proper amount of time, not damage them, and not lose them when you take them out to eat.
Can anyone get Invisalign?
Most people can get Invisalign, but it depends on your specific dental needs. Invisalign works best for mild to moderate tooth misalignments, such as crooked teeth, gaps, or bite issues. But traditional braces might be a better option if you have more severe problems.
We’ll evaluate your teeth and jaw to see if Invisalign is right for you. Our dentists explain the best treatment options for your situation, so you can have a healthy, beautiful smile.
Can I get Invisalign if I have orthodontic relapse?
Yes. This problem happens when your teeth shift back to their original positions after you’ve had braces or another treatment. Invisalign can help move your teeth back to where they should be.
We can create a custom treatment plan to help you get your smile back on track. Just remember to wear your aligners as directed for the best results.
Schedule Your Invisalign Consultation in Charleston, SC Today
Ready to transform your smile with Invisalign? Dr. James Dickert and Dr. Agatha Lynn are proud to serve patients throughout the Charleston area, including West Ashley, Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, and James Island.
At our conveniently located Charleston dental office, we take the time to understand your unique goals and create a personalized Invisalign treatment plan tailored to your needs. From your first visit to your final reveal, we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Call our Charleston office at (843) 371-5480 or request an appointment online today. Let’s start your journey to a straighter smile.