Teeth that are not properly aligned can significantly compromise the aesthetics of the smile. Misalignment can cause the teeth to become overcrowded and crooked or result in noticeable gaps between teeth. These cosmetic flaws can be corrected with Invisalign® treatment, an orthodontic procedure that shifts the teeth using a series of clear, custom-made aligner trays rather than metal wires and brackets.

At 4Excellence in Dentistry, we strive to improve the quality of life of our patients by improving the health and aesthetics of their smiles. Misalignment is a dental problem that can compromise both the appearance and health of the mouth. While there are cosmetic dentistry treatments that can address minor misalignment, some patients require orthodontic treatment; however, many people are hesitant to seek such treatment because they don’t want to wear conspicuous, cumbersome metal braces. The revolutionary Invisalign® system, available at our Levittown practice, uses a series of removable, virtually invisible aligners to guide the teeth into their optimal positions discreetly and permanently.

Candidates

Most patients who are candidates for traditional orthodontic treatment are candidates for Invisalign® as well. Invisalign® can straighten the teeth, close gaps between the teeth, and correct alignment problems in roughly the same amount of time as traditional braces.

How Does Invisalign® Work?

Invisalign® is the latest advance in orthodontic treatment. Rather than the bulky and uncomfortable appliances that are used with traditional metal braces, Invisalign® uses clear plastic aligner trays to gradually shift the teeth toward their proper positions in the mouth. Not only are these trays more comfortable than traditional braces, but they are also nearly undetectable, which is why so many people refer to Invisalign® as “invisible braces.”

Invisalign® treatment begins with a thorough exam of the teeth and jaw bone, including digital images that help our dentists create the patient’s personalized treatment plan. These images are used to fabricate a series of aligners from clear, BPA-free plastic. While the number of aligners used for treatment varies from case to case, the average patient will go through Invisalign® treatment for about a year, with a new set of aligner trays being used every two weeks. Each aligner is subtly different from the previous one, allowing for the teeth to be guided gently but definitively toward their optimal positions. The aligners should be worn by patients for between 20 and 22 hours a day and removed only for eating and dental hygiene. Invisalign® treatment will be monitored by our dentists, with appointments scheduled roughly every six to eight weeks to ensure that the teeth are responding to treatment.

Benefits of Invisalign®

The Invisalign® system offers an array of unique benefits, including:

  • Freedom from uncomfortable metal brackets and wires
  • Less pulling and tightening on the teeth, which results in more comfortable treatment
  • The ability to remove aligner trays for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing
  • A discreet and attractive alternative to traditional metal braces

Costs of Treatment

While many patients expect Invisalign® to be significantly more expensive than traditional orthodontic appliances, the truth is that the cost of Invisalign® is comparable to the cost of metal braces. The final cost of treatment will vary based on the degree of correction required, the number of aligners needed, and the length of treatment. While the actual cost of treatment can only be determined by one of our dentists, the average cost of Invisalign® treatment is around $5,000, which is the average cost of traditional braces as well. As an added bonus for our patients, Invisalign® treatment at our practice includes complimentary retainers at the completion of treatment to ensure that the teeth remain properly aligned. Our patients can benefit as well from an at-home teeth whitening kit to enhance the aesthetic effects of Invisalign® treatment.

Learn More about Invisalign®

If you have crooked or misaligned teeth and have been avoiding orthodontic treatment because you don’t want to wear traditional metal braces, Invisalign® may provide an ideal alternative. If you would like to learn whether you are a candidate for Invisalign® treatment, please schedule an appointment with one of our talented dentists at your earliest convenience. We look forward to working with you!

Understanding the Cost of Invisalign®
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Crooked teeth can have a significant impact on your confidence and oral health. If you are considering orthodontic care, you are probably familiar with Invisalign®. With this treatment, Dr. Lewis Ricciuti, Dr. James Albanese, or Dr. Jennifer Moore can straighten your teeth using customized, clear aligner trays that are both subtle and effective. Knowing these benefits, you may also be curious about the cost of Invisalign® at our Levittown practice. Although treatment cost can vary somewhat, Invisalign® is typically comparable to the price of traditional braces, and the treatment may be covered by insurance. To obtain your treatment estimate, contact 4Excellence in Dentistry today.

Understanding Invisalign® Treatment

First, you will have a thorough consultation with one of our cosmetic dentists, who will determine whether you are a good candidate for Invisalign® treatment. Invisalign® can effectively correct cosmetic alignment issues, as well as most types of malocclusion, such as overbites, underbites and crossbites.

After determining that Invisalign® is a good fit for you, your dentist will take digital impressions of your teeth, which will be used to create your personalized treatment plan. Based on this plan, Invisalign® technicians will create a series of aligner trays that will gradually shift your teeth into their new positions. Patients switch to new trays about every two weeks, and typically complete treatment in 9 to 18 months.

Comparing Invisalign® with Other Orthodontic Treatment

In some ways, Invisalign® is comparable to traditional metal braces. Invisalign® can achieve similar results, and is priced similarly to braces. Invisalign® differs from traditional orthodontics because treatment is extremely discrete, meaning most people will not even notice you are wearing your aligners. Invisalign® aligners are also removable, making them easier to maintain good dental hygiene, and negating the need to make dietary adjustments. Finally, most patients consider Invisalign® to be more comfortable than traditional braces; the clear plastic trays will not irritate soft tissue in your mouth, and the aligners use a gentle force to straighten your smile.

An Investment in Your Future

Invisalign® treatment is an invaluable investment in your oral health and well-being. After straightening your smile, it will be easier to effectively clean your teeth and maintain good dental hygiene, guarding against more costly health issues in the future. By realigning your bite, you can reduce your risk for bruxism, jaw pain, and temporomandibular (TMJ) disorder. Lastly, with a straighter, healthier smile, you will feel more confident and satisfied with your appearance.

Payment Options

Because Invisalign® has such enormous benefits for your dental health, the treatment is often covered by insurance. Our staff can help you file a claim and conduct any follow-up paperwork with your insurance company. For any cost that is not covered by your dental care plan, we offer several financing options, including fixed interest plans with approved credit. We believe that everyone should have access to a straighter smile, and will strive to make Invisalign® an affordable option for you.

Receive Your Treatment Estimate

To learn more about the cost of your Invisalign® treatment, schedule your free consultation at 4Excellence in Dentistry today.