Invisalign FAQ
General Invisalign Questions
01
Am I a good candidate for Invisalign?
With Drs. Pumphrey and Crandall’s years of experience and training, Invisalign can work for almost ALL. Call to schedule a free video consultation to determine how well Invisalign can work for you. Video consultations are quick and easy, taking 10 minutes or less of your time.
02
How long does it take to get Invisalign?
The length of treatment depends on the severity of your case. However, the average case takes about 11-12 months. But, with the techniques Drs. Pumphrey and Crandall use to make Invisalign work better, it also makes that same 11-month average case go quicker, usually taking just 1/2 as long (down to only 6 months).
03
Does dental insurance cover Invisalign?
Many dental insurance plans will cover the cost of Invisalign® treatment under the orthodontic maximum portion of the policy. There can be limitations and exclusions, for example, age limitations & waiting periods. We will confirm your orthodontic coverage and submit to your insurance policy upon you wearing your first Invisalign tray & the reimbursement will come directly to you. We are experts at getting the maximum value back for you from your dental insurance.
04
Does Invisalign actually work?
Invisalign works comparable to braces to straighten teeth and fix dental problems including bite issues, gapped teeth, and crowding. Just take a look at some of our before & after photos to see just how effective Invisalign is in producing beautiful smiles.
05
What restrictions will I have with Invisalign?
Unlike braces, your Invisalign aligners can be removed. However, if you don’t wear them, they won’t work. If you don’t wear them enough, they won’t work well. We find that most patients can eat any diet they choose during treatment. However, we do recommend you avoid foods that will stain your trays, like curry, turmeric, and yellow mustard. If you must enjoy foods that stain, we recommend you do so on the last day you’ll be wearing a tray.
06
Can I drink alcohol with Invisalign?
Yes, you can drink alcohol while using Invisalign. It’s important to clean your teeth & aligners if you have been drinking any sugary beverages (with or without alcohol).
07
Can I get Invisalign if I have an underbite?
Yes, Invisalign can correct some underbites, but severe underbites might require surgery alongside the Invisalign treatment. An underbite is when you close your mouth and your lower teeth are in front of your upper teeth – the opposite of an overbite. Those who have an underbite can suffer from headaches, difficulty of breathing, chewing and speaking properly. It can also cause your teeth to wear down quickly. Each patient is different so it’s important to have an Invisalign consultation to determine if you have any underlying issues that are causing an underbite.
08
Can I get Invisalign if I have an overbite?
Yes. Invisalign is also designed to correct an overbite and deep bites. An overbite is when the upper front teeth overlap with your lower front teeth. This can cause your teeth to wear down which can result in cavities, gum disease, and worn tooth enamel. It also can cause jaw pain, including TMJ. Overbites are one of the most common reasons patients undergo treatment for teeth realignment.
09
Is Invisalign better than braces?
Both braces and Invisalign help to straighten your teeth, and in many cases, the better choice depends on your specific situation. Many people prefer Invisalign because there are less restrictions in terms of eating, they are less visible, and they may be more comfortable.
10
How do I clean my aligners?
Your aligners can be cleaned by carefully brushing them with toothpaste and rinsing them in lukewarm water.
11
How much does Invisalign cost?
We offer the best Invisalign deal in the area! An all-inclusive Invisalign® package including free video consultations, no hidden fees, & no cutting corners!
12
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign takes a modern approach to straightening teeth, using a custom-made series of aligners created for you and only you. These aligner trays are made of smooth, comfortable, clear, and virtually invisible plastic that you wear over your teeth. Wearing the aligners will gradually shift your teeth into place. You will start a new set of aligners on a regular customized schedule to best fit your needs, until your treatment is completed.
Here’s a look at the entire process:
Consultation
You’ll meet with Dr. Crandall or Dr. Pumphrey and determine if Invisalign can solve your concerns. If you choose to proceed, we can start right away with a scan, saving you a visit.
Imaging
Instead of goopy impressions that make people gag, we will scan your mouth with a special camera. This is easier for you and more accurate. We will also take x-rays and photos.
Three Weeks Later
You will meet with one of our doctors again to see a computerized animation of your projected Invisalign treatment. At this stage, you’ll learn how many Invisalign trays you will need, which will also tell you how long your treatment will be.
Ongoing Care
Once you approve the computer animation, your trays will be ready in three weeks. From that point on, you will wear your trays 24 out of 24 hours a day. Yes, all day; eating, sleeping, day, night, all the time except to clean.
Please note that if you do not wear them this often, your Invisalign treatment will be far less effective. Simply put, the more you wear it, the better it will work. Throughout your treatment, you will meet with our doctors when necessary to guide you to success. For your convenience this can be a minimal number of visits. However, you are always welcome to see us more if you desire.
After the Trays
At the end of your treatment, when you are happy with your smile, you will receive a set of upper and lower retainers. You will wear the retainers in the beginning for 22 out of 24 hours a day, for 6 weeks until your teeth’s position firms up. Then you will wear the retainers every night for as long as you want your teeth to remain straight.
You will replace retainers a minimum of every two years to prevent them from stretching and your teeth shifting. Retainers will also help prevent damage from grinding and/or clenching, which most adults do without realizing it. In addition, they make great whitening trays!
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Contact Us
Blue River Dental
1818 N Riley Hwy, Ste A
Shelbyville, IN 46176
Phone: 317-392-1468
Fax: 317-398-2573
Hours
Monday–Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm