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Invisalign Orthodontics in Hood River, OR 

Invisalign is a clear aligner system that is used to straighten teeth without the use of traditional metal braces. The system uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners that are worn over the teeth to gradually shift them into the correct position.

The Invisalign Process

The process of getting Invisalign typically involves several steps. First, the dentist or orthodontist will examine the teeth and discuss the patient's goals and concerns. Next, the dentist will take impressions of the teeth, which will be used to create a digital model of the patient's bite. The digital model is then used to create a customized treatment plan, which will show the patient how their teeth will move during the treatment.

Once the treatment plan is complete, the aligners are created using the digital model. The patient will wear each set of aligners for about two weeks, then they will replace them with the next set in the series. Each set of aligners will gently shift the teeth into the desired position. The total treatment time varies depending on the individual case, but it typically takes between 6 to 18 months.

One of the main benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear and virtually invisible, so most people won't be able to notice that the patient is wearing them. Additionally, they are removable, so patients can take them out to eat, brush and floss their teeth. Because of this, it is important for the patient to follow the treatment plan as instructed by their dentist, as the success of treatment relies on the patient's compliance.

Invisalign vs. Braces

Invisalign and traditional braces are both used to straighten teeth, but they have some key differences:

• Appearance: Invisalign aligners are clear and virtually invisible, while traditional braces are made of metal or ceramic and are more visible. This can be a major consideration for some people, particularly adults who may be self-conscious about wearing traditional braces.

• Comfort: Invisalign aligners are made of smooth plastic, which means they are less likely to cause irritation or discomfort in the mouth than traditional braces. Traditional braces can cause mouth soreness and can be uncomfortable to wear.

• Removal: Invisalign aligners are removable, which means patients can take them out to eat, brush and floss their teeth. Traditional braces are fixed and cannot be removed, which can make oral hygiene more difficult.

• Treatment time: Treatment time can vary depending on the individual case, but Invisalign treatment usually takes between 6 to 18 months, while traditional braces typically take between 18 to 24 months.

• Suitability: Invisalign is suitable for both adults and teenagers and can be used to treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, such as gaps, crowding, overbite, underbite, and open bite. However, it may not be suitable for patients with severe cases of malocclusion or for patients that need more extensive treatment. Traditional braces can also treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, but may not be suitable for patients with certain types of bite issues.

Who can get Invisalign?

Invisalign is suitable for both adults and teenagers, and can be used to treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, such as gaps, crowding, overbite, underbite, and open bite. However, it may not be suitable for patients with severe cases of malocclusion or for patients that need more extensive treatment.

Is Invisalign covered by Insurance?

Invisalign is considered a cosmetic procedure and as such, it may not be covered by traditional dental insurance plans. However, some insurance plans may offer a specific coverage for orthodontic treatment, which typically include Invisalign. It is best to check with your insurance provider to see if they offer coverage for Invisalign and to understand the limits of such coverage.

Is Invisalign painful?

Invisalign aligners are generally not considered to be painful, but some people may experience some mild discomfort or pressure when they first start wearing the aligners or when switching to a new set of aligners. This is normal and typically subsides within a few days.

It's also possible that some people may experience some mild pain or discomfort in their teeth or jaw as the aligners work to shift the teeth into the correct position. This is also normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners don't have any metal parts that can cause ulcers, sore spots or other types of discomfort.