If you’ve been putting off orthodontic treatment because you don’t want metal brackets or wires, there’s a modern solution that fits your lifestyle: Invisalign®. We’re big proponents of it here at The Foleck Center, and how it can discreetly adjust your teeth without the hassle of traditional braces. Read on to learn more about how this product works, and why it’s preferable to traditional forms of teeth straightening.
What Is Invisalign and How Does It Work?
Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners that are custom-made to fit over your teeth. These aligners gently shift your teeth into place over time, using precise and controlled movement mapped out in advance through advanced digital imaging.
Your journey begins with a 3D scan of your teeth, which will dictate how your treatment plan is developed to meet your desired smile. Each aligner will need to be worn for about 1–2 weeks before switching to the next one in the series.
Top Benefits of Invisalign
Choosing Invisalign offers numerous advantages, especially for adults and teens who want to align their teeth without experiencing any noticeable disruptions in their daily routines.
Discreet Appearance
The most obvious benefit of Invisalign — as its name would imply — is its nearly invisible design. The clear aligners fit snugly over your teeth and are hardly noticeable, even when viewed up close. Whether you’re attending meetings, school, or social events, you’ll have the confidence that your smile will appear straighter without the tell-tale signs of brace work.
Removable and Flexible
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are removable. This means you can eat what you want without restricting foods that may be problematic with other types of treatment, like popcorn or nuts. You can also brush and floss as you normally would, making it easier to maintain excellent oral hygiene.
Comfortable Fit
Made from smooth plastic, Invisalign aligners don’t have sharp brackets or wires that can poke or irritate your cheeks and gums. Each aligner is custom-designed for your mouth, making it more comfortable than metal braces.
Fewer Office Visits
With Invisalign, there are fewer in-office adjustments required. Most patients only need to check in every 6–8 weeks, saving time for busy professionals and families.
Better Oral Hygiene
Because the aligners are removable, it’s easier to brush and floss effectively, which helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and staining during your orthodontic treatment.
Treats a Wide Range of Cases
Invisalign is not just for mild cases. It can correct:
- Crowded teeth.
- Gaps and spacing.
- Overbites and underbites.
- Crossbites and open bites.
At The Foleck Center, we carefully evaluate your alignment needs to determine if Invisalign is right for your case.
Invisalign vs. Braces: What the Key Differences?
When considering orthodontic treatment, many patients ask how Invisalign compares to braces. Here’s a quick breakdown for convenience.
| Feature | Invisalign | Traditional Braces |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear and nearly invisible | Metal or ceramic brackets and wires |
| Removability | Removable for eating and cleaning | Fixed in place |
| Comfort | Smooth plastic aligners | May cause irritation from brackets |
| Oral Hygiene | Easy to clean teeth and aligners | More difficult due to brackets and wires |
| Diet Restrictions | None | Many restrictions |
| Office Visits | Fewer, shorter appointments | Frequent tightening and checkups |
| Treatment Effectiveness | Great for mild to moderate cases | Better for severe alignment issues |
| Age Suitability | Teens and adults | All ages |
| Maintenance | Must wear 22 hours per day | Always active |
Is Invisalign Right for You?
Invisalign is a great choice for patients who:
- Want a more discreet alternative to braces.
- Have mild to moderate alignment issues.
- Can commit to wearing aligners approximately 22 hours per day.
- Prefer the flexibility to remove their aligners as needed.
While Invisalign works for many patients, it’s not ideal for every case. Severe bite corrections or complex orthodontic needs may still require traditional braces. During your consultation at The Foleck Center, we’ll evaluate your bite, spacing, and smile goals to determine the best solution for you.
Why Choose The Foleck Center for Invisalign in Norfolk, VA?
We’ve helped hundreds of patients achieve their dream smiles by using Invisalign. Here’s why they choose us to provide them with this intuitive solution.
- Digital Smile Preview: See your future smile before treatment starts thanks to our powerful 3D modeling.
- Experienced Team: Our cosmetic dentists are trained in advanced Invisalign protocols.
- Patient-Centered Care: We offer flexible appointment scheduling and customized treatment plans.
- Affordable Options: We coordinate with your insurance so that you know what’s covered. We also offer convenient financing and wellness programs to make our services more accessible.
As a leading Invisalign provider in Norfolk, we combine advanced technology with personalized attention to ensure a smooth, rewarding experience from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does Invisalign take?
A: Treatment time varies, but most patients complete their Invisalign plan in 12 to 18 months.
Q: Will Invisalign affect my speech?
A: Some patients notice a slight lisp at first, but it usually disappears within a few days.
Q: Can I clean the aligners with toothpaste?
A: It’s best to clean your aligners with Invisalign cleaning crystals or mild soap — abrasive toothpaste can scratch them.
Q: Does Invisalign hurt?
A: You may feel mild pressure for a day or two with each new aligner, but it’s generally more comfortable than braces.
Q: Can I use Invisalign if I’ve had braces before?
A: Yes! Invisalign is a great option for those who’ve had orthodontic relapse.
Start Your Invisalign Journey With Us
Don’t let crooked teeth hold you back from the smile you’ve been wanting. With Invisalign, you can achieve straight teeth and beautiful results that are comfortable and discreet. Schedule your consultation today to learn more! 800-800-8000
