Your Diamond Invisalign® Provider
If you are thinking about straightening your smile using clear aligners, you might be wondering if you will get the value that you deserve and whether or not the cost of clear aligners is worth it. Here, Dr. Vick explains what you might want to keep in mind when considering clear aligner treatment.
What are clear aligners?
There are couple brands of clear aligners floating around. They all offer custom-made, clear aligners that you wear on your teeth and change around every 2 weeks. Each set of these removable clear aligners gradually adjust your teeth in tiny steps over the course of your treatment.
What are the benefits of clear aligners?
One of the major advantages of clear aligner treatment is that you are able to remove them to eat, drink, brush and floss your teeth.
Depending on the brand you end up choosing and your specific orthodontic issue, clear aligners can resolve any number of orthodontic issues from crowding to misalignment and other bite issues. Because the discreet appearance of clear aligners, they are a popular option for teenagers and adults. There are also no dietary restrictions during clear aligner treatments, which makes it extra convenient for busy adults and teens.
Your clear aligners also won’t need adjustments or tightening as braces do, which can sometimes be uncomfortable. You’ll just need to check in with your dentist regularly on your progress.
How much do clear aligners cost?
A couple different factors will influence the cost of your clear aligner treatment:
- Your oral health requirements and how much work you will need
- Any coverage you can get through an insurance plan
- Your location and average prices for clear aligners
Depending on your unique circumstances and the clear aligner option that you choose, you will probably pay an amount in the same range as you would for traditional braces.
How long will my treatment last?
Improving your smile by investing in clear aligners is a commitment to following the treatment plan Dr. Vick creates for you so that you can enjoy a straighter smile into your future. He will be able to determine your specific need and duration of your treatment. There are a number of factors that could change your treatment time, including:
- The severity of your misalignment
- Your compliance with your custom treatment plan
- The number of aligners in your series
If you follow your treatment plan carefully and diligently, clear aligners are able to improve your smile and straighten your teeth. If you know how many aligners are in your treatment, you should be able to figure out how long your treatment will take by doing some math.
Assuming you have 16 sets of aligners and switch them every 2 weeks, you’d use 2 sets of aligners per month. 16 divided by 2 is 8, meaning your treatment will take 8 months.
Most patients will be able to see results in their smile at or a bit after a month of clear aligner treatment. You might want to photograph your smile every week so you can track how your teeth are moving and changing and by association, the value your aligners bring to your smile and your oral health!