Invisalign® in New York, NY

Properly aligned, straight teeth are not only attractive, they are healthier and more comfortable. Crooked teeth and an improper bite can lead to long-term dental problems that can become painful and expensive to fix. This is why our cosmetic dentists at SmilesNY Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry are pleased to offer Invisalign — removable, clear teeth aligners for their patients in New York, NY. Custom made for your teeth and your specific needs, Invisalign is more attractive and comfortable than traditional metal braces that can be removed to make cleaning your teeth and eating much easier. If you are interested in getting straighter teeth with the Invisalign system, schedule a consultation at SmilesNY to learn more.

There are several factors that can determine the alignment of your teeth: genetics, thumbsucking as a child, the loss of a tooth or teeth, and trauma to your face. Dental misalignment can lead to other oral health problems, including dental malocclusion (a bad bite), abnormal enamel wear, trouble speaking and chewing, as well as toothaches and jaw pain. If your SmilesNY dental specialist sees any of these issues during your annual exam, they may recommend an orthodontic treatment such as Invisalign.

The Invisalign system is beneficial for both adults and teens who want straighter teeth without the pain, hassle, and appearance of braces. While they do need to be worn for most of the time, Invisalign trays can be taken out for eating and when brushing your teeth, as well as for special events and to play sports. Far more discreet than traditional metal braces that cut and poke your cheeks, your friends and family will typically not know that you are wearing your Invisalign tray.

Your first set of Invisalign trays will be created using digital impressions at SmilesNY. Once they are ready, you will return to SmilesNY to get your first sets along with care instructions. You need to wear your aligners for at least 20 – 22 hours each day for the system to be effective, ideally removing them only for eating and cleaning. Over time, you will go to the next set of trays as they gently move your teeth into alignment. You should schedule follow-up appointments about every 4 – 6 weeks at SmilesNY to have the fit of your aligners assessed and to have more digital impressions taken so your next aligners can be made. The length of time that you use Invisalign trays will vary based on the original position of your teeth and your cosmetic goals, but most patients wear aligners for about one year.

When you have reached your Invisalign goals, it's crucial to stop your teeth from moving back to their old position. Invisalign's Vivera retainers are made with the same comfortable materials to help keep your teeth in their new position after your treatment is complete. Each retainer is custom made at the Invisalign dental laboratory based on digital impressions taken once your treatment is complete. Your dentist will talk to you about how many hours a day you should wear your retainer, plus how to care for it once it is sent from the lab. They will also continue to watch your teeth alignment and bite during your annual exams to ensure your teeth remain in the correct position.

For most patients, some of their Invisalign treatment cost is covered by dental insurance. Our office will confirm your benefits and calculate your out-of-pocket costs. SmilesNY accepts several methods of payment for patients who don't have dental insurance. During your consultation, a member of our team can discuss an estimate of costs and ways to make your treatment affordable for you, including flexible payment plans and medical financing.

How long do you have to wear Invisalign aligners?

Invisalign aligners are worn for at least 20 — 22 hours each day. You can take them off to eat, brush your teeth, play sports, or for a special occasion. For most people, the typical Invisalign treatment will last about 12 months.

How often are the Invisalign trays changed?

Every 4 — 6 weeks, you will have a follow-up appointment to check the progress of your teeth. At that time, your dentist may take digital impressions of your teeth to create your next set of custom aligners.

Does Invisalign really work to straighten teeth?

Some patients with more severe misalignments or dental issues may need other treatments, but for the majority of people, Invisalign aligners are just as effective as braces and able to achieve dramatically straighter teeth.

Does Invisalign work for children?

Yes, it does. With Invisalign Teen, the specialized trays are adapted to take into account the changing facial structure of a developing body.

If you or your child are curious about getting straighter, healthier teeth without the pain and hassle of traditional metal braces, schedule a consultation to decide if you are a candidate for Invisalign advanced teeth straightening system. One of our cosmetic dentists can develop your unique treatment plan with Invisalign at your appointment at SmilesNY and get you started on the path to a beautiful smile.