Do you want a straighter smile?
Invisalign is a more comfortable alternative to traditional orthodontics that uses clear plastic aligners instead of metal brackets. These aligners move and shift teeth over time to create the proper adjustments. This treatment option is discreet as it is virtually invisible.
Dr. Ben Ahlbrecht offers Invisalign in Indianapolis, IN. This cosmetic dentistry solution is personalized to each patient who receives treatment at North Meridian Dental Excellence. Our experienced specialists work with patients through every step of the treatment process.
Treatment with Invisalign at North Meridian Dental Excellence
Before treatment, our dentist in Indianapolis, IN will discuss your oral health, budget, and goals with you to determine if Invisalign is the right treatment for you and your needs. To begin the process, he will take digital dental impressions of your teeth to create your first custom aligner. The aligners will be fabricated in a lab and completed after two to four weeks.
You will wear the first aligner and switch to a slightly different one after two weeks as teeth shift. Dr. Ahlbrecht maps each aligner to suit shifting teeth, customizing your treatment. Depending on your needs, treatment can last from six to eighteen months.
You will need to schedule an appointment in our office every four to six weeks so we can monitor your progress. Dr. Ahlbrecht will give you a retainer to maintain your results after this treatment.
Benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign can correct:
- Underbite: Lower teeth sticking out past upper teeth.
- Overbite: Upper teeth extending over lower teeth.
- Crossbite: When lower and upper teeth are misaligned.
- Crowded teeth: Causing difficulties with brushing and flossing.
- Gapped teeth: A condition that can cause speech issues and eating problems.
- Open bites: Where the upper and lower jaws do not align properly.
Invisalign is a faster dental treatment than metal braces. The average treatment time with Invisalign is eighteen months or less, while metal braces can take years. You don’t need to visit the dentist or orthodontist as often, either. Traditional braces work by the orthodontist tightening the wires every month in the office. With Invisalign, you switch out your aligners at home to progress on treatment.
It’s easier to clean your teeth with Invisalign. You remove the aligners to perform your normal oral healthcare routine. There’s no need to learn how to clean around brackets and wires. You don’t have to give up any of your favorite foods. You can’t eat hard or sticky foods with braces because they can break or get caught up in your braces.
Why Straighten Crooked Teeth?
When patients come to us about Invisalign, it’s usually because they don’t like how their crooked teeth look. But aesthetics aren’t the only thing impacted by crooked teeth. They can also cause a variety of oral health problems. We strive to ensure that we treat the root cause as well as the aesthetic impacts.
Crooked teeth are harder to clean than straight ones. They come together at odd angles and are often cramped and crowded. Your toothbrush can’t reach certain areas and you may not be able to get dental floss in between your teeth. Even our specialized dental tools may not be able to clean your teeth properly. You can take care of your teeth in all the ways you should be, but still be at high risk for tooth decay and gum disease.
When you have crooked teeth, your bite becomes uneven. When the bite comes together, it distributes pressure evenly throughout your teeth. Crooked teeth mean that the pressure distributes unevenly. Certain teeth experience more pressure than others. These teeth wear down prematurely and are more likely to experience breaks, chips, and cracks, leading to the need for restorative dental procedures.
An uneven bite is one of the biggest risk factors for developing TMJ disorders. The jaw doesn’t track properly when it moves, breaking down the joint. You may experience your jaw popping and clicking, pain throughout the jaw and face, and the jaw may get stuck in certain positions. You can have trouble opening or closing your mouth.
Invisalign FAQs
Want to know more about Invisalign? Learn the answers to common questions about treatment below:
How long do I need to wear Invisalign each day?
For Invisalign to be effective, wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours daily. This means only removing them to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Wearing them as directed is crucial to keeping your treatment on track and achieving the best results.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
The length of Invisalign treatment depends on the complexity of your case, but most people complete treatment within 12 to 18 months. Some cases may take as little as six months, while more complex issues may require up to two years. Your dentist will provide an estimated timeline based on your specific needs.
Does Invisalign hurt?
Invisalign is generally less painful than traditional braces, but you may experience discomfort when switching to a new set of aligners. This pressure is a sign that your teeth are shifting, which is part of the treatment process. Any discomfort typically lasts for only a few days after changing aligners.
Are there food restrictions with Invisalign?
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign doesn’t come with food restrictions. Since you remove the aligners before eating, you can enjoy all the foods you like. Just brush your teeth before putting the aligners back in to prevent food particles from getting trapped between your teeth and the aligners.
Can I remove Invisalign aligners whenever I want?
Yes, Invisalign aligners are removable, allowing you to take them out for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. However, you should wear them for at least 20 to 22 hours daily to achieve the best results. Failing to wear them as directed can extend your treatment time.
What happens after I finish Invisalign treatment?
After completing Invisalign treatment, you will likely need to wear a retainer to maintain your new smile. Teeth can shift back over time, so retainers help keep them in place. Your dentist will recommend how often and how long you should wear the retainer to prevent relapse.
Schedule a Dental Exam Today
Call North Meridian Dental Care for comprehensive and comfortable Invisalign treatment today at 317.204.7134. You can also schedule an appointment online.