Invisalign® has revolutionized the field of orthodontics by offering a clear, comfortable, and convenient alternative to traditional metal braces. Our Anchorage dentist understands the importance of a confident smile. That’s why we’re proud to provide our patients with Invisalign® treatment, a state-of-the-art solution for straightening teeth discreetly and effectively. Whether you’re an adult looking to enhance your smile without the hassle of conventional braces or a teen seeking a less noticeable treatment option, Invisalign® offers an appealing solution.

Understanding Invisalign®

Invisalign® is an advanced orthodontic system that addresses dental issues such as overbites, underbites, and crooked teeth. It does this by utilizing custom-made, clear plastic aligners to gradually correct teeth alignment. As part of the Invisalign® process, we employ precise 3D scanning technology to create a detailed treatment plan for each patient. Aligners are worn in two-week increments, gently shifting teeth to their correct positions over time. 

Advantages of Invisalign®:

  • Aesthetics: Invisalign® clear aligners are virtually invisible, making them ideal for adults and teens who prefer a discreet treatment.
  • Comfort: Made of smooth plastic, Invisalign® aligners are more comfortable than traditional metal braces, which can irritate gums and cheeks.
  • Convenience: Aligners are removable, allowing for normal eating and easy cleaning. This helps maintain excellent oral hygiene throughout the treatment process.
  • Customization: Each set of aligners is designed for the individual, ensuring efficient and effective alignment.

Initial Consultation

Your journey to a straighter smile begins with an initial consultation in our dental office. During this visit, you’ll discuss your dental goals and concerns with our Anchorage cosmetic dentist, who will examine your teeth and evaluate whether Invisalign® suits you. This session is crucial as it sets the foundation for your customized treatment plan.

Our office utilizes advanced imaging technology to create a precise map of your mouth. This may involve taking digital scans or dental impressions of your teeth. These images are essential as they are used to design your unique series of Invisalign® aligners. Every step is explained throughout this process, ensuring you understand and are comfortable with the forthcoming treatment.

Custom Treatment Plan

After your initial consultation, Dr. Crosby and his team will carefully analyze your digital scans to craft a personalized Invisalign® treatment plan. This detailed plan not only specifies the movements of your teeth but also estimates the treatment duration, typically 12 to 18 months, based on individual cases.

Here’s how the treatment planning process unfolds:

  1. 3D Imaging Visualization: Utilizing state-of-the-art 3D computer imaging technology, Dr. Crosby generates a virtual model of your teeth. This model demonstrates the gradual shifts your teeth will undergo during the treatment.
  2. Preview of Final Results: This technology allows you to see a preview of your final smile even before the treatment begins. Such visualization helps in setting realistic expectations and increases motivation.
  3. Manufacturing of Aligners: Your custom aligners are manufactured once the treatment plan is approved. Each aligner is designed to make precise adjustments to your teeth’s positioning, aligning them closer to the desired configuration with each successive set.
  4. Sequential Treatment Phases: You will receive a series of aligners, each to be worn for about two weeks. Each set of aligners exerts gentle pressure on specific teeth, progressively moving them into place according to the planned sequence.

Dr. Crosby’s meticulous approach ensures that every stage of your Invisalign® treatment is tailored for effectiveness and comfort, guiding you towards achieving the perfect smile with confidence.

The Invisalign® Experience

Embarking on the Invisalign® journey is a step-by-step process that transforms your smile with minimal disruption to daily life. Here’s what to expect throughout the treatment:

  • Wearing Your Aligners: You should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, only removing them to eat, drink anything other than water, and for oral hygiene routines.
  • Changing Aligners: You will switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks. This change is crucial as each set is designed to continue the process of gradually moving your teeth into the correct position.
  • Monitoring Progress: Regular check-ins at Dr. Crosby’s office are essential. These appointments allow us to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to keep your treatment on track.

Duration: The total duration of treatment generally varies from 12 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of your case and how well you adhere to wearing your aligners as prescribed.

woman holding up Invisalign® clear braces

Living with Invisalign®

Adapting to Invisalign® aligners is made easy by their design, promoting comfort and convenience. You can remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything but water, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions and avoid staining the aligners. Oral hygiene is straightforward—simply remove the aligners to brush and floss as usual. Keeping the aligners clean is essential, by using Invisalign® cleaning crystals or gently brushing them and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

Initially, you might feel discomfort or notice minor speech changes, but these typically diminish as you get used to the aligners. Dr. Crosby’s team is always ready to guide you on integrating Invisalign® smoothly into your daily life, ensuring your treatment is successful and comfortable.

Follow-up Appointments and Adjustments

Regular follow-up appointments at our office are crucial to your Invisalign® treatment. These visits allow Dr. Crosby to monitor the progress of your teeth alignment and ensure everything is moving according to the plan.

Typically scheduled every six weeks, these check-ups allow you to discuss concerns and receive the next set of aligners. Adjustments may be made to the treatment plan depending on how your teeth respond to the aligners. This proactive approach helps maintain the effectiveness of your treatment and keeps you on track toward achieving your desired smile.

Expected Results and Post-Treatment Care

The transformative results of Invisalign® treatment create a straighter smile and enhance overall oral health by properly aligning the teeth. At the conclusion of the Invisalign® journey, patients can expect significant improvements reflecting the initial treatment goals. To ensure these results are maintained, post-treatment care is critical:

  • Wearing a Retainer: Dr. Crosby will likely recommend a retainer to keep your teeth in their new position after completing Invisalign® treatment. Initially, as advised by Dr. Crosby, you may need to wear the retainer full-time, transitioning to nightly wear after a period.
  • Ongoing Oral Hygiene: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential to preserve your new smile. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups will help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
  • Regular Dental Visits: Continue visiting Dr. Crosby’s office for regular dental check-ups and cleanings. These visits are vital to monitor your dental health and address any issues early.

FAQs about Invisalign®

Many patients considering Invisalign® have questions about the treatment. Here are answers to some of the most common inquiries:

Treatment duration varies based on individual needs, typically 12 to 18 months.

Invisalign® aligners may initially cause some discomfort as your teeth shift, but this is usually mild and temporary.

Yes, you can remove your aligners to eat and drink to continue enjoying your favorite foods without restrictions.

Aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours daily to achieve the best results.

Some people might notice a slight lisp when they first start wearing their aligners, but this typically resolves as you get used to them.

Ready to Transform Your Smile? Discover the Invisalign® Difference

Choosing Invisalign® in Anchorage means opting for a modern, effective solution to improve your smile discreetly. Our dedicated team ensures that every step of your treatment is personalized, from the initial consultation to the final results and beyond.

We invite you to schedule a consultation by calling (907) 277-1098 or completing our online contact form to discover how Invisalign® can transform your smile and boost your confidence. Let us help you achieve the beautiful, straight teeth you’ve always wanted. Reach out today and take the first step towards a brighter smile.