Invisalign^® Clear Aligner Therapy in Mooresville & Troutman, NC

At Curtis Family Dentistry, we offer Invisalign clear aligner therapy. Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment method that offers the benefits of braces without metal and wires. Invisalign can correct a wide variety of orthodontic and cosmetic issues including crooked teeth, gaps, crowding and bite issues. Wondering if Invisalign is right for you? Please call our office to book your consultation!

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign clear aligners are custom-made for each patient using an impression of your teeth. These clear aligners fit snugly over the teeth and are virtually invisible. You will change to the next aligners in the series approximately every two weeks. Aligners are worn 22 hours per day and are removed to eat, brush, and floss. Each aligner shifts your teeth slightly, moving them horizontally and vertically and even rotating them if necessary. Each aligner applies just the right amount of force in the right place at the right time.

Benefits of Invisalign Aligners

Invisalign offers many advantages over traditional metal braces. For one, the aligners can be removed at any time allowing you to eat and drink what you like. Since you can pop out the aligners, you can also brush and floss as you normally would, making it much easier to keep your teeth and gums healthy during treatment compared to traditional braces. Possibly best of all, when you correct your teeth with Invisalign, it’s virtually impossible for others to notice! Invisalign is also a great option for athletes who play contact sports because they do not present the same injury risks as metal braces!

Can you eat with Invisalign aligners?

Invisalign clear aligners must be removed before you eat or drink anything besides water. It may be tempting to leave them in, but chewing food or gum while wearing aligners can stain, damage, or break them. It is also recommended that you brush your teeth after you eat and before you put your aligners back in to ensure that they remain clear and clean. However, there are no food or activity restrictions when you take your aligners out, which is a great benefit of removable braces that many patients enjoy.

Is Invisalign painful?

You can expect to feel some soreness in your teeth and gums after you begin wearing your new aligners, but that just means that they are doing their job! We recommend putting in new aligners at night so you can adjust to them while you sleep, and dental wax can help ease the pain of particularly sore spots in the mouth as well. Prescription and over-the-counter pain relievers can also be helpful, especially when you first begin your Invisalign treatment.

How long do Invisalign treatment plans take?

Another great benefit of choosing Invisalign over metal braces is the shortened treatment plans. The average treatment time for Invisalign cases is 12-18 months but can be longer or shorter depending on the kind of orthodontic issues that are present and how often the aligners are worn. You will get an estimate for how long your specific treatment plan should take at your consultation, and then it is up to you to wear your Invisalign aligners as frequently as possible to help ensure your treatment plan stays on track.

Is Invisalign covered by dental insurance?

Many dental insurance plans that include orthodontic benefits will help cover Invisalign treatment. Coverage amounts vary based on your specific plan, lifetime orthodontic maximums, and age limits. Our team will review your benefits, explain what your plan covers, and provide a clear estimate before treatment begins. We also accept flexible payment options to make achieving a straighter smile more affordable and manageable.

Who is a candidate for Invisalign?

Invisalign is a great option for teens and adults who want to straighten mild to moderate crowding, spacing, or bite concerns. During your consultation, we evaluate your teeth, jaw alignment, and overall oral health to determine if clear aligners are right for you. Patients who are committed to wearing their aligners as much as possible typically see the best results. Some complex cases may require alternative orthodontic treatment.

How do you take care of Invisalign aligners?

Proper care keeps your aligners clear and odor-free. We recommend removing them before eating or drinking anything other than water. Brush and floss your teeth before placing them back in your mouth. Clean your aligners daily with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water or Invisalign cleaning crystals. Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic. Store aligners in their case when not in use to prevent damage or loss. Should you break or lose an aligner, please contact our office as soon as possible.