FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Invisalign?
The Invisalign system is an orthodontic treatment that corrects malocclusion with a series of custom-made, nearly invisible alingers that are comfortable to wear, and removable for meals and normal brushing and flossing.
How does Invisalign work?
When you meet with Dr. Pastiu, he will take orthodontic records of your teeth and send all the material to Invisalign.
At Invisalign, a computer model of your teeth and your treatment is created – almost like an animated movie of the way your teeth will move from the current position to the final desired position.
Dr. Pastiu reviews and approves the treatment plan. Invisalign produces a series of clear, plastic alingers that coreespond to the stages of tooth movement in the 3-D movie. Each set of alingers is designed to move the teeth a small amount. You will wear each stage of alingers for approximately two weeks before switching to the next set in the series. Week by week, your teeth are straightened until they reach the desired position.
What are the primary benefits in Invisalign?
– Nearly invisible: You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.
– Removable: You can eat and drink what you want.
– Easier to maintain good oral hygiene: You can brush and floss normally to maintain healthy gums and teeth.
– Comfortable: There are no wires or brackets to cause mouth abrasion.
How do I get started?
– Just make an appointment with Dr. Pastiu for an initial exam.
– You may find more valuable information at www.invisalign.com
ABOUT TREATMENT
Does a doctor need any special training for Invisalign?
Doctors must attend and complete an Invisalign training seminar to treat patients with Invisalign. Align also provides doctors with many opportunities for continuing education and advanced Invisalign training.
How long does treatment take with Invisalign?
Like traditional braces, the length of treatment depends on the complexity of the case. Treatment time typically is about the same as conventional braces – about a year.
How often must I wear the aligners?
Invisalign aligners should be worn day and night, except when eating, brushing, and flossing. We recommend that the aligners be worn 20-22 hours per day.
Are there restrictions on eating and drinking?
No. Because you remove your Invisalign aligners before you eat, there are no restrictions on the types of food you may eat during treatment.
Does Invisalign hurt?
During the first day that you use each set of Invisalign aligners, you may feel some discomfort. That’s because the aligner is gently moving your teeth. In most cases, the discomfort passes within the first day.
Has Invisalign been reviewed by the FDA?
Invisalign has FDA clearance as a Class II device.
ABOUT PRICING
What does Invisalign cost?
As with other orthodontic options, the cost is based on the complexity of your case and the length of treatment.
We don’t want the investment to prevent you from having the smile you’ve always wanted. So during the initial exam, Dr. Pastiu will determine the complexity of your case, the estimated length of treatment, and the cost for the treatment. We want to make sure that the finances are comfortable for you, so we offer a variety of payment options to suit your individual needs. This is all discussed during your complimentary exam.
Does insurance cover Invisalign?
Typically, an insurance policy that covers traditional braces also cover Invisalign to the same extent. In addition, many doctors offer financing through companies such as CareCredit, as well as in-office financing.
Are financing options available?
Yes. Our practice offers financing options.
ABOUT THE PROCESS
What are the steps involved with Invisalign?
– Schdule an appointment with Dr. Pastiu
– Dr. Pastiu writes a treatment plan, takes X-rays, and an impression of your teeth
– Using 3-D computer imaging technology, your treatment plan is converted into a series of precisely customized aligners.
– You wear each aligner for about two weeks, before moving to the next set in the series.
– You return for appointments typically once every six weeks. This is the way Dr. Pastiu can be sure the treatment is progressing as planned.