Orthodontics can be used to treat cosmetic concerns, bite problems, and a range of dental health issues. The majority of patients have mild to moderate problems that can be effectively treated with invisible braces. Dr. Jason Baldwin is a Lake Tahoe area Invisalign provider, conveniently located in Truckee, CA. He can work with you to straighten your smile and improve your overall dental health.
Invisalign® in Truckee, CA
Dr. Baldwin may recommend invisible braces as part of a smile makeover or cosmetic treatment plan or to address:
- Crooked or misaligned teeth
- Crossbite
- Overbite
- Underbite
In about a year, most patients can complete treatment and enjoy both a beautiful new smile and improved dental health.
Patients enjoy several key benefits with Invisalign clear braces:
- Treatment is easy to plan with comfortable, digital impressions
- Easy, convenient aligners are removable for daily oral hygiene, eating, and dental care
- Clear aligners are made from a comfortable material that will not irritate the gums and soft tissues of the mouth
Straightening your teeth will not only improve the aesthetics of your smile but will improve your dental health in many ways. Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss daily and will not contribute to bite problems down the road.
Your treatment begins with easy, digital impressions that are taken by Dr. Baldwin using iTero, a handheld device used chairside. The digital images are then sent to the Invisalign lab to be used in the creation of your custom aligners. These images can also be used to show you what your smile will look like by the end of your treatment.
The aligners are created with a soft-hard clear plastic material that is ultra-thin and very durable. They are transparent and designed to fit securely against your teeth making them virtually invisible to others. The soft plastic material and the aligner’s low profile help to reduce irritation of the lips, tongue, and gums.
Once your set of aligners are ready, Dr. Baldwin will provide instructions on when and for how long to wear each one as they gradually move your teeth into the desired position. About every two weeks, you will get a new set of clear aligners according to your detailed treatment plan. The final aligner will serve as a retainer to maintain tooth position and the appearance of your new smile.
Invisalign Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Invisalign cost?
It is surprising for patients to learn how affordable Invisalign can be, even when they compare it to traditional metal braces. The total cost of your treatment will depend on the severity of the issue your orthodontist will treat. It will also depend on the number of aligners you need to treat your issue.
On average, Invisalign treatment costs from $3,500 to $8,000. The national average is $5,000 per case. A minor treatment case, such as an adult with an orthodontic relapse, may cost as little as $2,000. Dr. Baldwin will evaluate your dental health and let you know how much it will cost to treat your unique concerns.
Will dental insurance cover invisible braces?
Insurance does not typically cover Invisible braces. Dr. Baldwin will help you with billing and paperwork to maximize your dental insurance benefits. We also offer third-party financing and payment plans for patients concerned about the cost of Invisalign treatment.
What should I do with my Invisalign while eating?
If you want to eat something while wearing your Invisalign, you should take it out before eating anything. Most people have a case or a specific place where they always store their appliances while eating. It is also always a good idea to clean your teeth and Invisalign after eating.
What can I eat/drink while wearing Invisalign?
Many people habitually drink coffee and other drinks while keeping their Invisalign in. This is not a good idea. Drinks can discolor your Invisalign quickly, making it look like you’re wearing a yellow appliance instead of a clear one. You can drink water while wearing an Invisalign, but that is the only drink you should intake.
Is Invisalign painful?
Invisalign can cause discomfort, especially when you first start wearing your new aligners. This is because they’re working to shift your teeth into their new positions. However, most patients describe it as a feeling of pressure rather than pain. This discomfort typically subsides after a few days as your mouth adjusts. If you’re experiencing persistent pain, checking in with your orthodontist is a good idea.
How soon do you see Invisalign results?
Patients could start noticing changes to their teeth with Invisalign within a few weeks. However, this varies from patient to patient. The total treatment time typically ranges from 6 to 12 months. Every patient’s timeline may differ. Regular visits with your orthodontist will help track your progress.