If you have crooked teeth or an overbite that you’d like to fix, Invisalign might be the right option for you. It uses clear, plastic aligners to gradually move your teeth into the position you want them to be in. However, not all Invisalign providers are equal, and you should choose one with extensive experience and proven success rates with their patients. Here are some things to consider when choosing the right Invisalign dentist near you.
How do I choose an invisalign dentist?
Choosing an invisalign dentist is a big decision, but it’s one that will put you on your way to a smile makeover. As with any health care provider, picking someone who matches your personality and professional needs is vital. Just like you want your doctor to fit with you personally, there are certain qualities an invisalign dentist should have in order for them to be a good fit for you professionally. An amazing smile doesn’t just happen—it’s something that requires effort from both dentist and patient (and parents if you’re still getting braces). Your new invisalign dentist should be willing to do everything possible to help get your mouth looking exactly how you want it.
What should I look for when picking an invisalign dentist?
First, make sure you’re clear on your treatment goals. Do you want a particular style of smile makeover? Do you need to bring existing teeth into alignment to make space for orthodontic appliance? Once you know what you’re going for, seek out a dentist who is accredited by The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). These dentists are most likely in touch with modern orthodontic technology and have experience providing invisalign treatments. Invisalign uses a series of clear removable trays that gently push teeth into position without painful metal bands or brackets. An AAO-accredited dentist can provide treatment plans specific to your needs and give recommendations on whether invisalign is right for you.
My top steps to choosing the right invisalign dentist
1. A certified dentist. 2. Certifications for their work on a product such as invisalign, braces, etc. 3. Look for a company that has been around longer than 10 years and has established a history of customer satisfaction and proven results 4. The best invisalign dentists will also have business hours in addition to after-hours appointments 5. Pricing should not be an issue in choosing your dentist if you do your research on other factors first; remember most insurance will pay for braces but won’t pay for dentistry work like invisalign so don’t be afraid to ask questions about their work history and what they specialize in because all of these things should affect your decision greatly!
Questions to ask your invisalign dentist before you start treatment
Is my case a good fit for invisalign? Is there anything you think we should do differently? How long will it take before I see results? Are you experienced with clear aligners, or are they new to your practice? Do you have in-house lab capabilities? What kind of services do you offer in addition to teeth straightening, such as cosmetic dentistry and root canals? What type of insurance does your office accept? Are there any additional fees for treatment above and beyond what is covered by my insurance plan? Choosing a dentist that’s best for you is an important decision. Make sure you ask questions so that your smile makeover process is an efficient and easy one.
Things to consider after you receive your invisalign trays
Once you have your invisalign trays in place, it’s important to follow a strict schedule. You should be taking out your trays every night and then reinserting them in the morning—if you don’t do that, you run a very real risk of developing sores or even gum disease from bacteria trapped under your tray. One of my patients once mentioned how painful it was to sleep with her tray on; I recommended she get a mouth guard for her teeth so that she could still rest easily at night. A mouth guard isn’t necessary, but if it helps you deal with discomfort or pain when wearing an invisalign tray at night, get one!