The development of invisible braces for orthodontic treatment has revolutionized the patient experience. Dr. James Dickert and Dr. Agatha Lynn are Charleston Invisalign® providers who can help teen and adult patients achieve a beautiful, healthier smile. Invisalign treatment is discreet, comfortable, and effective.
Dr. Dickert and Dr. Lynn provide the best cosmetic dental care in Charleston, SC. We often recommend Invisalign to address misalignment and mild to moderate bite concerns, to improve dental health, and the esthetics of your smile.
What Can Invisalign Treat?
Dr. Dickert and Dr. Lynn recommend Invisalign for teens and adults with misaligned teeth. Invisalign can treat:
- Crooked teeth
- Overcrowding of teeth
- Small gaps between teeth
- Crossbite
- Overbite
Our dentists will perform a thorough exam to see if Invisalign is the right treatment 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 braces 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 braces, 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
Dr. Dickert or Dr. Lynn will meet with you to evaluate your dental health and determine that you are a good candidate for Invisalign treatment. If Invisalign is right for you, they will create a treatment plan and discuss the length and cost of your orthodontic care.
Treatment will begin with digital impressions that are used with the CAD/CAM software to design and order your custom clear aligners. With this specialized software, you can see each step of the treatment plan, tracking your teeth’s movements with each set of aligners. We will send the files to the Invisalign® laboratory, which will then generate several sets of clear plastic aligners.
Once we receive your clear aligners, you will come back in to try them on. You will not need to visit the dentist every time you receive new aligners. Your dentist will thoroughly explain how to remove and place your aligners and provide a schedule for changing them out and for checkups. The aligners are typically changed every two weeks and should be worn 20-22 hours per day for the best results.
Frequently Asked 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 less time. More complex cases, like significant crowding or bite issues, will take longer to correct.
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 decay and tooth staining that can occur if you use 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 for the long term to keep your smile looking 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 make your teeth loosen and even 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 right amount of time, it lengthens the course of 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 if you have mild to moderate tooth misalignments like 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 based on your situation, so you can have a healthy and 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 a Consultation with Our Dentists in Charleston, SC
Get comfortable orthodontic treatment today. Call for treatment with clear aligners at (843) 371-5480. You can also request an appointment at West Ashley Family Dentistry online.