Invisalign

If you have crooked, crowded, or overlapping teeth, you may assume you need traditional metal braces to resolve these issues. However, this is not always the case. You may be able to correct your smile with Invisalign clear aligner trays that fit over your teeth and transform your smile discreetly. This solution is easy, barely visible, and gives you your ideal smile. At Parsons Smile Center, we proudly offer first-class Invisalign treatment in our Flushing office.

Dr. Fady Salha has worked in the dental industry in New York City for 30 years, giving him the experience, skills, and knowledge needed to provide you the care you deserve. He is committed to taking on each patient individually, so you can trust us to provide the high-quality treatment that will help you achieve the smile of your dreams. We communicate with you every step of the way so you know what to expect throughout your Invisalign journey and have a smooth experience.

What to Expect During the Invisalign Process

Invisalign is a system of orthodontic aligners made from a patented, safe, non-toxic plastic. These trays fit snugly on your teeth, and unlike traditional braces, they do not use metal and brackets to correct your smile. Instead, the custom-made aligners mold to your teeth and force them into their optimal positions over time. While every patient is different, the general process to complete Invisalign involves the following steps:

First Consultation

Before starting Invisalign, we meet with you to discuss the process, how Invisalign works, the costs involved, and any information you need to know before making your decision. We may also look at your teeth and review your goals for your smile to determine if Invisalign is right for you. Additionally, we may take X-rays and photos during your consultation to get a detailed understanding of your teeth and create your dental plan.

Impressions

Then, we will take impressions of your teeth using computer software. During this process, we use a digital scanner to create a 3D representation of your teeth. These impressions are used to create the sets of aligners that move your teeth gradually until they are in their ideal positions.

Preparation

Before starting the aligners, we may attach small composite patches on some of your teeth. These give the Invisalign something to grip onto and help move the teeth more effectively. Composite patches are easily removed after the process is complete. We may also sand down some of your teeth to make room for future movement.

Fitting and Initial Wear

Once the preparation is complete, you can try on your first set of trays. They may feel tight and unfamiliar at first, but you get used to the feeling quickly. We discuss the trays’ fit with you to ensure you are not in any pain and the aligners fit properly. From there, you can begin wearing your trays for 20-22 hours per day to ensure the alignment process goes smoothly.

Change Your Trays and See Results

Depending on your goals and unique needs, you may change your aligners every one to two weeks. Each set of trays moves your teeth closer to your ideal smile. As you change your aligners, you will notice your teeth shifting. This may cause sensitivity and slight discomfort for the first few days after you start a new set.

Completion

Once you have completed your Invisalign, which may take 12 to 36 months, depending on your teeth, we remove the composite patches and do a final assessment of your teeth. You may need to wear a retainer at night to maintain alignment.

5 Benefits of Getting Invisalign at Parsons Smile Center

Invisalign clear braces are an excellent choice for both teens and adults who want a perfect smile but don’t want metal braces. Potential benefits of using Invisalign aligners include the following:

• No visible hardware: Invisalign is subtle, and most people won’t notice at all. This helps you maintain your confidence during the process.
• Comfort: Invisalign trays are made of smooth plastic. There are no wires, brackets, or hooks that can scratch your lips and cheeks, making them significantly more comfortable than metal braces.
• Freedom: With Invisalign, you can eat what you like and brush and floss normally. The trays are also easy to remove so you can maintain oral hygiene easily.
• Fewer visits: With traditional braces, you have to go to the dentist to get them adjusted routinely. With Invisalign, appointments are less frequent, much shorter, and non-invasive.
• Shorter treatment: Traditional braces can take one, two, or sometimes several years to achieve your desired results, but with Invisalign and a commitment to the process, the treatment may sometimes even be completed in one year.

Invisalign’s convenience, freedom, and efficiency make it an ideal treatment for misaligned teeth. However, we understand you may have questions about the process. We are here to help you understand if Invisalign is right for you and what you can expect on your journey to your new smile.