Subtly Realign Your Bite with Invisalign

Invisalign Basics

Invisalign consists of a series of clear, removable, plastic retainers that patients can wear over their teeth, similar to a very slim sports guard. Because these trays are transparent, they are essentially invisible during use. Consequently, Invisalign is a highly attractive and subtle cosmetic treatment option, particularly for adults who would like to avoid wearing metal braces. 

In addition to its cosmetic appeal, Invisalign is also considered a much more comfortable orthodontic treatment for patients. Rather than relying on metal brackets, wires, and rubber bands to correct your bite, Dr. Liberman can adjust the position of your teeth by simply providing you with the latest in a series of plastic aligners. While the trays will still exert pressure on your teeth, the surface is much less aggravating to the gums and the inside of your cheeks than metal brackets. Additionally, you can easily remove the trays for meals, brushing, and flossing. 

Is Invisalign Right for Me?

It is important to understand that Invisalign is not ideal for every patient. Because it is not as powerful as traditional orthodontics, it is not usually recommended for severe misalignment or complex cases. Dr. Liberman most often recommends Invisalign for: 

• Gapped or crowded teeth
• Overbites (the upper jaw protrudes too far forward)
• Underbites (the lower jaw juts past the upper teeth)
• Crossbites (one or more teeth point sideways toward the cheek or tongue)
• Open bites (the teeth fail to meet properly)

Invisalign is usually better suited to adults and older teenagers because it requires active participation on the patient's behalf. Most importantly, patients must wear their trays at least 22 hours every day in order to remain on track. While every patient's needs are unique, Invisalign treatments are usually completed within about 18 months. 

Your Initial Consultation

Patients will first need to meet with Dr. Liberman for a consultation before beginning treatment. During this discussion, she will ask about your treatment goals and evaluate your oral health. If the treatment seems appropriate for you, she can then walk you through the timeline, cost, and what to expect during each stage of the process. She will usually provide sample aligners for patients to examine and, in some cases, may demonstrate how they feel with temporary buttons and rubber bands. Patients should expect to pay half of the treatment cost upfront. If necessary, we can provide payment plans customized to each patient’s particular budget. 

Invisalign is a popular, reliable option for modifying a patient’s bite and improving their oral health.

Fabrication of the Aligners

If you decide to pursue treatment, the doctor can then take a number of diagnostic photos of the inside and outside of your mouth. In order to ensure that your gum tissue and the underlying bone is healthy, she may also take a series of x-rays. If necessary, Dr. Liberman can make minor modifications to the teeth, such as removing small amounts of enamel to ease the effects of overcrowding. She can then take a series of digital impressions of your smile. 

These impressions are then sent to an offsite lab, where skilled technicians will fabricate a series of aligners. The lab will send a rough treatment plan for Dr. Liberman to approve before creating the final set of trays to ensure optimal results. 

The Treatment Process

Once your aligners are ready, you can return to the office to receive the first few sets in your series. Each set of aligners is continuously worn about 22 hours a day for two weeks before it is switched out. Patients typically come into the office about once a month to receive the next two sets of trays in their series and to undergo an evaluation of their progress. After completing your treatment, you will receive a retainer to maintain your results. This will allow you to enjoy a straighter, more uniform-looking smile for years to come. 

Schedule a Consultation

Invisalign is a popular, reliable option for modifying the right patients' appearance and oral health. Contact our practice online or at (516) 482-9140 to discuss this popular treatment option with Dr. Liberman.