The Invisalign system for teeth alignment from Align Technology has been causing quite a stir in the field of cosmetic dentistry. This system introduces a new and better way to wear dental braces without the unsightly and uncomfortable metal wire braces. In a period of 9 up to 15 months, the teeth can be perfectly aligned by using a series of plastic transparent braces. With the use of a three dimensional computer simulation of one’s teeth structure, custom-fitted aligners are created and continuously get molded in every two weeks period. The transparent aligners are recommended to be worn for a minimum of 22 hours everyday to achieve the desired results.
An interesting feature of Invisalign braces is that they are removable. This allows the much needed convenience of being able to take them off during meals or teeth brushing. It also makes complete and exhaustive teeth cleaning a possibility which is the usual problem one encounters when wearing dental braces.
The transparency of Invisalign aligners enables one to wear them inconspicuously. This can be considered a welcome treat to those who easily gets conscious about wearing some bulky metal contraptions visible in one’s mouth. One can get on with the usual office or school routine without feeling embarrassed by having dental braces on. Aside from the unattractiveness of the metal wire braces, the thought that people can be aware whenever one is consciously trying to correct some teeth imperfections makes the whole brace wearing an uncomfortable experience. This negative experience can be avoided by wearing Invisalign’s transparent braces.
The cost of Invisalign treatment varies and is dependent on a lot of factors. Unlike metal braces that require frequent visits to the dentist, the Invisalign system is packaged with a set of aligners which one can replace on one’s own every two weeks increment. Such set can last up to six months which is then the time one will be required to go back to the orthodontist for assessment and aligner set reconstruction. This procedure goes on until the teeth have finally aligned and moved in the desired positions. With the less frequency required in dental consultations, the cost of having Invisalign braces becomes reasonable.
Invisalign has several different plans available to patients. Full Invisalign treatment is for adults with more serious orthodontic corrections required, Invisalign Express is for patients needing minor corrections and Invisalign Teen has been specially designed to be more suitable for teenage patients whose adult teeth may not be fully erupted.
In addition to the complexity of the treatment, another factor in determining the price of treatment is the experience of the provider. Invisalign is offered by both dentists and orthodontists and the experience level varies enormously. Whilst some providers have worked on hundreds of cases of varying complexity, some have worked on only a handful of cases. Many providers offer low prices when they first start to use Invisalign, increasing the price as they gain more experience.
BigSmiles - Surrey Dentist, Surrey Dental, BC Dentist*
- Clooverdale Dentist
Showing posts with label Invisalign. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Invisalign. Show all posts
Monday, January 25, 2010
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
FAQ of Invisalign
Cloverdale dental: Implants, oral sedation
Here are some common questions that will help you understand Invisalign and help you decide what to do in your endeavor for a perfect smile.
If you have a question that doesn’t show up on this post, and you really want it answered, add a comment below. We will respond ASAP.
Does Invisalign really work?
Yes, It has been clinically proven that in both research studies and actual orthodontic practice nationwide that Invisalign is effective at straightening teeth. And yes, without metal or wires.
What do the aligners look like and what are they made of?
The aligners are what is shaped specifically to your mouth. They are made of a clear plastic that is nearly invisible when worn. The plastic is medical grade and very strong. There are a lot of skeptics out there who don’t think Invisalign is virtually invisible. Invisalign braces are not completely unnoticeable, but you will keep a much lower profile than our metal counterparts. The aligners look a lot like whitening trays, but are custom fit to your mouth and needs.
Does My Insurance cover Invisalign?
Everyone’s coverage is different and benefits differ from policy to policy so it is best to look over what your Insurance covers and to talk to your Invisalign dentist. If you have Orthodontic coverage, Invisalign should be covered just like traditional braces. But this is a tough one to answer because it really depends.
How much does Invisalign Cost?
Invisalign costs around the same as traditional braces. It varies how severe you malocclusion (orthodontic condition) is and how extensive the treatment will need to be. The amount of aligners you receive usually tells you how much you will need to pay. Invisalign averages around $5500, traditional braces are very similar. Invisalign Express Treatment is a shorter treatment that treats more minor conditions. Its cost is around $2500-$3500.
I heard Braces hurt…Is Invisalign Painful?
The first few days of the Invisalign treatment are the most painful. So yes, there are some discomfort. The same goes for traditional braces. You have to remember that your teeth are moving within the bone, when that happens, some discomfort does occur. Your teeth heal and settle and are sore from the initial movement. Once the first few days are over your teeth should be less sensitive and you shouldn’t be in pain.
What are the benefits of choosing Invisalign?
When comparing Invisalign to traditional braces the benefits are simple to see. The most obvious benefit is being able to straighten your teeth without anyone noticing. The nearly invisible braces win over metal brackets and wires any day. Another benefit is being able to remove the aligners. The daily tasks of eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth do not have to become a hassle with braces. You can remove them easily. Comfort is another huge benefit of Invisalign. NO METAL so there is less irritation on your gums and tongue. No wires and brackets also means less time in the doctors chair getting those adjustments. Most Invisalign patients go back every 6 weeks, but it depends on the dentist/orthodontist. L astly, with Invisalign, you are able to view your progress throughout the treatment with ClinCheck software. It is great to see a goal in front of you and progress happening.
I heard about Invisalign Express…What is it?
Invisalign Express is very similar to the full treatment, but treats more mild orthodontic conditions like minor crowding, or spacing. The treatment usually takes less than 6 months and is less costly then the full treatment. It is up to you and your dentist to decide which treatment would be best for you.
Are Dentists trained in how to make Invisalign?
Yes and No, Dentists don’t make Invisalign. With the help of ClinCheck software the aligners are made by Invisalign and are sent to the dentist, after they are custom made to your teeth through impression molds. And Yes, Dentists do need specific training and get certified to offer Invisalign. There are almost 50,000 dentists worldwide that offer the Invisalign treatments.
How does Invisalign move your teeth?
This is a great question, because we are so used to metal brackets and wires being able to move our monstrous teeth and roots, however Invisalign’s biomechanics are very similar to that of traditional braces. Instead of pulling the teeth, the aligners press directly on the teeth, shaping and moving them in the direction of the aligners. The movements are very deliberate and part of the treatment, it is important that you keep your aligners in as long as you can, so that you can progress through the treatment as planned.
Cloverdale- BigSmiles: Implants, Invisalign, Braces
- Cloverdale Dentist
Here are some common questions that will help you understand Invisalign and help you decide what to do in your endeavor for a perfect smile.
If you have a question that doesn’t show up on this post, and you really want it answered, add a comment below. We will respond ASAP.
Does Invisalign really work?
Yes, It has been clinically proven that in both research studies and actual orthodontic practice nationwide that Invisalign is effective at straightening teeth. And yes, without metal or wires.
What do the aligners look like and what are they made of?
The aligners are what is shaped specifically to your mouth. They are made of a clear plastic that is nearly invisible when worn. The plastic is medical grade and very strong. There are a lot of skeptics out there who don’t think Invisalign is virtually invisible. Invisalign braces are not completely unnoticeable, but you will keep a much lower profile than our metal counterparts. The aligners look a lot like whitening trays, but are custom fit to your mouth and needs.
Does My Insurance cover Invisalign?
Everyone’s coverage is different and benefits differ from policy to policy so it is best to look over what your Insurance covers and to talk to your Invisalign dentist. If you have Orthodontic coverage, Invisalign should be covered just like traditional braces. But this is a tough one to answer because it really depends.
How much does Invisalign Cost?
Invisalign costs around the same as traditional braces. It varies how severe you malocclusion (orthodontic condition) is and how extensive the treatment will need to be. The amount of aligners you receive usually tells you how much you will need to pay. Invisalign averages around $5500, traditional braces are very similar. Invisalign Express Treatment is a shorter treatment that treats more minor conditions. Its cost is around $2500-$3500.
I heard Braces hurt…Is Invisalign Painful?
The first few days of the Invisalign treatment are the most painful. So yes, there are some discomfort. The same goes for traditional braces. You have to remember that your teeth are moving within the bone, when that happens, some discomfort does occur. Your teeth heal and settle and are sore from the initial movement. Once the first few days are over your teeth should be less sensitive and you shouldn’t be in pain.
What are the benefits of choosing Invisalign?
When comparing Invisalign to traditional braces the benefits are simple to see. The most obvious benefit is being able to straighten your teeth without anyone noticing. The nearly invisible braces win over metal brackets and wires any day. Another benefit is being able to remove the aligners. The daily tasks of eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth do not have to become a hassle with braces. You can remove them easily. Comfort is another huge benefit of Invisalign. NO METAL so there is less irritation on your gums and tongue. No wires and brackets also means less time in the doctors chair getting those adjustments. Most Invisalign patients go back every 6 weeks, but it depends on the dentist/orthodontist. L astly, with Invisalign, you are able to view your progress throughout the treatment with ClinCheck software. It is great to see a goal in front of you and progress happening.
I heard about Invisalign Express…What is it?
Invisalign Express is very similar to the full treatment, but treats more mild orthodontic conditions like minor crowding, or spacing. The treatment usually takes less than 6 months and is less costly then the full treatment. It is up to you and your dentist to decide which treatment would be best for you.
Are Dentists trained in how to make Invisalign?
Yes and No, Dentists don’t make Invisalign. With the help of ClinCheck software the aligners are made by Invisalign and are sent to the dentist, after they are custom made to your teeth through impression molds. And Yes, Dentists do need specific training and get certified to offer Invisalign. There are almost 50,000 dentists worldwide that offer the Invisalign treatments.
How does Invisalign move your teeth?
This is a great question, because we are so used to metal brackets and wires being able to move our monstrous teeth and roots, however Invisalign’s biomechanics are very similar to that of traditional braces. Instead of pulling the teeth, the aligners press directly on the teeth, shaping and moving them in the direction of the aligners. The movements are very deliberate and part of the treatment, it is important that you keep your aligners in as long as you can, so that you can progress through the treatment as planned.
Cloverdale- BigSmiles: Implants, Invisalign, Braces
- Cloverdale Dentist
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Braces vs. Invisalign
(taken from http://www.antibraces.com/braces-vs-invisalign-who-wins)
Braces
Everybody knows what Braces are. We have all seen them on Ugly Betty and the kid next door. Unfortunately most of us wish we didn’t need them or are dreading the idea of getting them. Why? Because of the way they look and feel in our mouth. The plus of braces is that they get the job done. After the long process and joke poking you definitely have straighter teeth. The extreme overbites and bad malocclusions may have to be fixed only with the help of traditional braces. This is because many of the alternatives out there cannot move your teeth the way braces can. The rubber bands, powerchains, and powerful expanders move your teeth in a powerful way. Despite the look, braces will get the job done and you will have much straighter teeth when the treatment is complete.
Invisalign
You have also probably heard of Invisalign. Invisalign can do most of what braces can, in straightening your teeth and giving you a brighter smile. However Invisalign braces has been known to treat much greater problems with your teeth, making stronger better aligners. The best part about Invisalign is that the “aligners” (the clear braces you put it in your mouth) are removable. You can take out these aligners when you need to brush your teeth or eat. A huge plus when you are thinking about the decision to get braces. Invisalign is also clear. Unfortunately the name is a little miss leading because the aligners and “buttons”(attached to your teeth to hold the aligners in place) are not invisible, however they are not as visible as the infamous “metal mouth” you dread. So point for visibility goes to Invisalign, but functionality is very similar.
Comparing prices of Braces and Invisalign
Invisalign is relatively higher in price than traditional braces. Depending on how many “trays”(what the aligners are in, each tray is diagnosed specifically for your teeth and diagnosed in the treatment) you receive, will determine the price of your treatment. If you have a minor problem that needs fixing, Invisalign express is cheaper than traditional braces and can probably get the job done. Invisalign Express ranges from $3000-$4000. The avg. cost of traditional braces is $8000 and many insurance companies will cover a percentage. Invisalign ranges from $5500-$7000 depending on the dentist you go to. Some insurance will cover a percentage of Invisalign cost as well depending on your coverage. There is some great financing out there that dentist’s offer for Invisalign patients as well. We have found that financing is reasonable, for under $200 a month.
Wear Ability
Invisalign wins in this category every time, because of the ability to remove the aligners. Getting food stuck in your teeth, your teeth staining, and gum problems are usually not an issue with Invisalign as they are with traditional braces. Some people have had problems with there teeth after using traditional braces, like cavities from stuck food, etc… One thing you should remember is to get all of your cavities and cosmetic corrections done before you start your Invisaline treatment. It will help with the fluidity of the process. If you don’t you may have to stop treatment in the middle to get something fixed. In the category of comfort and usability Invisalign wins because you are still able to do those everyday things.
The Look
If you start Invisalign and it is difficult to talk or you sound like the Spleen from Mystery Men don’t worry, usually people have difficulty talking in the first week because you salivate due to the foreign object in your mouth and it takes time to get used to the aligners. You will get used to them and talking with them in will get easier. Because Invisalign is visually appealing it is obvious that we choose clear non-visible braces vs. those metal brackets. You only have to tell people about your treatment if you choose to rather than the opening conversation being “How long do you have your braces for?” or “How long have you had those things?” It is not the best start to a conversation and one Invisalign avoids.
Who Wins?
We are somewhat biased when we say Invisalign is the sure winner. Despite the difference in price, there are many dentists out there that will treat many conditions with Invisalign and for a reasonable price and good financing. If you have decided to choose Invisalign we are happy for you and wish you all the best in your treatment.
BigSmiles, Surrey Implants, Cloverdale Dental, Botox
- Cloverdale Dentist
Braces
Everybody knows what Braces are. We have all seen them on Ugly Betty and the kid next door. Unfortunately most of us wish we didn’t need them or are dreading the idea of getting them. Why? Because of the way they look and feel in our mouth. The plus of braces is that they get the job done. After the long process and joke poking you definitely have straighter teeth. The extreme overbites and bad malocclusions may have to be fixed only with the help of traditional braces. This is because many of the alternatives out there cannot move your teeth the way braces can. The rubber bands, powerchains, and powerful expanders move your teeth in a powerful way. Despite the look, braces will get the job done and you will have much straighter teeth when the treatment is complete.
Invisalign
You have also probably heard of Invisalign. Invisalign can do most of what braces can, in straightening your teeth and giving you a brighter smile. However Invisalign braces has been known to treat much greater problems with your teeth, making stronger better aligners. The best part about Invisalign is that the “aligners” (the clear braces you put it in your mouth) are removable. You can take out these aligners when you need to brush your teeth or eat. A huge plus when you are thinking about the decision to get braces. Invisalign is also clear. Unfortunately the name is a little miss leading because the aligners and “buttons”(attached to your teeth to hold the aligners in place) are not invisible, however they are not as visible as the infamous “metal mouth” you dread. So point for visibility goes to Invisalign, but functionality is very similar.
Comparing prices of Braces and Invisalign
Invisalign is relatively higher in price than traditional braces. Depending on how many “trays”(what the aligners are in, each tray is diagnosed specifically for your teeth and diagnosed in the treatment) you receive, will determine the price of your treatment. If you have a minor problem that needs fixing, Invisalign express is cheaper than traditional braces and can probably get the job done. Invisalign Express ranges from $3000-$4000. The avg. cost of traditional braces is $8000 and many insurance companies will cover a percentage. Invisalign ranges from $5500-$7000 depending on the dentist you go to. Some insurance will cover a percentage of Invisalign cost as well depending on your coverage. There is some great financing out there that dentist’s offer for Invisalign patients as well. We have found that financing is reasonable, for under $200 a month.
Wear Ability
Invisalign wins in this category every time, because of the ability to remove the aligners. Getting food stuck in your teeth, your teeth staining, and gum problems are usually not an issue with Invisalign as they are with traditional braces. Some people have had problems with there teeth after using traditional braces, like cavities from stuck food, etc… One thing you should remember is to get all of your cavities and cosmetic corrections done before you start your Invisaline treatment. It will help with the fluidity of the process. If you don’t you may have to stop treatment in the middle to get something fixed. In the category of comfort and usability Invisalign wins because you are still able to do those everyday things.
The Look
If you start Invisalign and it is difficult to talk or you sound like the Spleen from Mystery Men don’t worry, usually people have difficulty talking in the first week because you salivate due to the foreign object in your mouth and it takes time to get used to the aligners. You will get used to them and talking with them in will get easier. Because Invisalign is visually appealing it is obvious that we choose clear non-visible braces vs. those metal brackets. You only have to tell people about your treatment if you choose to rather than the opening conversation being “How long do you have your braces for?” or “How long have you had those things?” It is not the best start to a conversation and one Invisalign avoids.
Who Wins?
We are somewhat biased when we say Invisalign is the sure winner. Despite the difference in price, there are many dentists out there that will treat many conditions with Invisalign and for a reasonable price and good financing. If you have decided to choose Invisalign we are happy for you and wish you all the best in your treatment.
BigSmiles, Surrey Implants, Cloverdale Dental, Botox
- Cloverdale Dentist
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Invisalign Clear Braces
If you are tired of looking in the mirror and being disappointed by a crooked, crowded, or unevenly spaced smile, then Invisalign braces may be the option you have been looking for.

For many people, the idea of having a mouth full of metal brackets and wires is so unappealing that they would rather live life with a smile that they are unhappy with. Now, with Invisalign’s unique technology, Dr. Larry Lu, a certified Invisalign provider, can give you the beautiful, straight smile that you have always wanted without the discomfort and inconvenience of metal braces.
Once the aligners are created, they are sent back to Dr. Larry Lu who will make sure they are a proper fit for your mouth. You should wear each aligner over your teeth for 20 – 22 hours each day for a couple weeks. After an aligner has been used for a couple weeks, you will switch to the next aligner in the series.
During your visits with Dr. Larry Lu, he will check your teeth to ensure that they are moving into their correct positions. If you lose an aligner for some reason, we will create a new one for you.
For more infomation, please visit the following sites:
http://www.surreyclearbraces.info/
http://www.surreyinvisiblebraces.info/
- Cloverdale Dentist

For many people, the idea of having a mouth full of metal brackets and wires is so unappealing that they would rather live life with a smile that they are unhappy with. Now, with Invisalign’s unique technology, Dr. Larry Lu, a certified Invisalign provider, can give you the beautiful, straight smile that you have always wanted without the discomfort and inconvenience of metal braces.
Invisalign braces provide many advantages over traditional orthodontic braces, including:
- Removable – The clear plastic shells used in Invisalign can be removed so that you can eat whatever foods you like.
- Fast – Invisalign braces can usually improve your smile in less time than traditional braces.
- Comfortable – Invisalign aligners are made out of a smooth plastic, so there are no abrasions or irritations like with metal braces.
- Better Oral Hygiene – Since you can remove Invisalign aligners, you can continue with your normal dental hygiene regimen.
- Fewer Office Visits – You spend less time in the dental office with Invisalign braces because you only have to see Dr. Lu about every six weeks and the visits are fast and easy.
- Invisible – Invisalign can be used without anybody noticing.
Once the aligners are created, they are sent back to Dr. Larry Lu who will make sure they are a proper fit for your mouth. You should wear each aligner over your teeth for 20 – 22 hours each day for a couple weeks. After an aligner has been used for a couple weeks, you will switch to the next aligner in the series.
During your visits with Dr. Larry Lu, he will check your teeth to ensure that they are moving into their correct positions. If you lose an aligner for some reason, we will create a new one for you.
For more infomation, please visit the following sites:
http://www.surreyclearbraces.info/
http://www.surreyinvisiblebraces.info/
- Cloverdale Dentist
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