Invisalign in Kirkland, WA

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth. It offers a discreet alternative to traditional braces, allowing patients to achieve a beautiful smile without the use of visible metal wires or brackets.

How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign clear aligners apply gentle pressure to gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. The treatment process involves a series of custom-made aligners, which you change approximately every one to two weeks. Each new set of aligners brings you closer to achieving your desired smile. Our experienced team in Kirkland will create a customized treatment plan using advanced digital technology to design a series of aligners that fit your unique smile.

What are the advantages of Invisalign over traditional braces?

Invisalign offers several advantages over traditional braces. The clear aligners are virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for individuals who want to straighten their teeth discreetly. The aligners are also removable, allowing you to eat, drink, and clean your teeth without any restrictions.

Who is a good candidate for Invisalign treatment?

Invisalign can be suitable for teenagers and adults with mild to moderate orthodontic issues, such as crowded teeth, gaps, or overbite/underbite. Patients should be able to commit to wearing the aligners for 22 hours a day to boost treatment success. If you’re looking for Invisalign in Kirkland, WA, our skilled dentists can determine if you’re a good candidate during your first consultation.

How long does the Invisalign treatment typically take?

The duration of Invisalign treatment varies depending on individual cases. On average, it takes about 12 to 18 months to complete the treatment. However, some cases may require shorter or longer treatment times. Our Kirkland dentist will provide a personalized treatment plan and estimated timeline during your consultation.

Can Invisalign fix all types of orthodontic problems?

Invisalign is effective for correcting a wide range of orthodontic issues, including crowded teeth, gaps, overbite, underbite, and crossbite. However, severe or complex cases may require alternative orthodontic treatments. Our Kirkland dental team will assess your case and recommend the most suitable treatment option.

Are clear aligners comfortable to wear?

Yes, Invisalign clear aligners are designed for comfort. They are made from smooth, BPA-free plastic, which minimizes irritation and discomfort. While some patients may experience mild pressure or tightness when wearing a new set of aligners, any discomfort typically subsides within a few days as your teeth adjust.

How often should I wear the Invisalign aligners?

For optimal results, it is recommended to wear your Invisalign aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, removing them only when eating, drinking (except for water), brushing, and flossing. Consistent and diligent wear of the aligners will help ensure the effectiveness of your treatment. Our dentists at Manson & Chi Dentistry will provide detailed instructions on proper wear and care during your Invisalign treatment.

Can I eat and drink with the aligners in?

To ensure the effectiveness of your Invisalign treatment, it’s important to remove the aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water. This helps prevent staining or damaging the aligners and allows you to enjoy your meals without restrictions.

Can I brush and floss my teeth normally with Invisalign?

Yes, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential during Invisalign treatment. You can brush and floss your teeth normally by simply removing the aligners. This allows you to clean your teeth thoroughly and ensures optimal oral health throughout your Invisalign journey.

How often do I need to visit the dentist during Invisalign treatment?

Regular dental visits are important for successful Invisalign treatment. Our cosmetic dentist in Kirkland will schedule check-ups every 6 to 8 weeks to ensure the treatment is working as planned. These visits allow us to monitor your progress, make adjustments if necessary, and provide you with the next set of aligners.

What happens if I lose or break one of my aligners?

If you lose or break an aligner during your Invisalign treatment, contact our dental practice immediately. Depending on your specific situation, we will advise you to move to the next set of aligners or temporarily use a previous aligner. It’s important to avoid prolonged periods without aligners to prevent setbacks in your progress.

Will Invisalign affect my speech?

While Invisalign may initially cause a slight change in your speech patterns, most patients we have seen in Kirkland adapt quickly. Any speech differences usually disappear within a few days. Regularly wearing your aligners and practicing speaking aloud will help you adjust faster.

Can I play sports or musical instruments while wearing Invisalign?

Absolutely! Invisalign aligners are designed to fit comfortably, allowing you to maintain an active lifestyle. Whether you play sports or musical instruments, the aligners won’t interfere. For intense physical activities, you may choose to remove the aligners temporarily for added comfort.

How much does Invisalign treatment cost?

The cost of Invisalign in Kirkland varies depending on factors such as the complexity of your case, treatment length, and insurance coverage. During your consultation at Manson & Chi Dentistry, we will provide you with a personalized treatment plan and discuss the associated costs, as well as available payment options.

Does insurance cover Invisalign?

Insurance coverage for Invisalign in Kirkland varies by provider and plan. Some dental insurance plans offer orthodontic coverage that may partially cover the cost of Invisalign treatment. Our knowledgeable team can help you navigate insurance details and maximize your benefits

Are there any potential side effects or risks associated with Invisalign?

Invisalign is considered safe and minimally invasive. However, like any orthodontic treatment, some patients may experience temporary side effects such as mild discomfort, gum soreness, or a slight lisp. These are usually temporary and subside as you adjust to wearing the aligners.

How do I clean and care for my Invisalign aligners?

Keeping your aligners clean is crucial for maintaining good oral hygiene during your Invisalign treatment. Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water and gently brush them with a soft toothbrush to remove any plaque or bacteria. Avoid using hot water or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the aligners. Our dental team at Manson & Chi Dentistry will provide you with detailed instructions on caring for your aligners.

What happens after I complete my clear aligner treatment?

After completing your Invisalign treatment, our dental team will provide you with a retainer to help maintain the new position of your teeth. Wearing a retainer as instructed is crucial to prevent your teeth from shifting back. Our dentists will guide you on how to care for your retainer and schedule periodic check-ups to monitor your progress.

Are there alternatives to Invisalign?

Sometimes patients don’t want to wait months for straighter teeth. If you need a smile makeover fast, our cosmetic dentists in Kirkland may recommend restorations that can conceal misalignments.

1. Dental Veneers: Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite material that are custom-made to fit over the front surface of your teeth. They can be used to correct a variety of dental issues, including minor misalignments, gaps, chips, and discoloration. While veneers don’t actually straighten teeth, they can create the appearance of a more uniform and aligned smile.
2. Dental Crowns: A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns can be used to cover misshapen or badly discolored teeth and can offer a way to improve the overall appearance of your smile. Like veneers, crowns don’t straighten the teeth but can be used to mask imperfections.
3. Composite Veneers (Dental Bonding): Dental bonding involves the application of a tooth-colored composite resin to the surface of the teeth. This resin is shaped and polished to improve the appearance of the teeth. Composite veneers can address issues like minor gaps, chips, discoloration, or slight misalignment. Unlike porcelain veneers, dental bonding can typically be completed in a single visit and doesn’t require removing as much of the tooth enamel. However, they may not be as durable or stain-resistant as porcelain veneers.

These options are more invasive than clear aligners as they require altering the natural tooth structure to fit the restoration. They are usually recommended in cases where teeth also require restorative treatment or when the cosmetic issues are too significant to be addressed by orthodontics alone.

It’s important to note that while these methods can improve the appearance of your smile, they do not correct the actual alignment of your teeth and jaws. For structural alignment issues, orthodontic treatments like Invisalign or braces are typically necessary.

Schedule Your Invisalign Consultation Today!

At Manson & Chi Dentistry, we are proud providers of Invisalign in Kirkland, WA. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards achieving a straight, confident smile. At your appointment, Dr. Manson or Dr. Chi will discuss your overall goals, take measurements, record teeth photos, and discuss which orthodontic options are best for your smile needs. Call us at 425) 553-0153 to get started!