An alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign treatment is custom-made, clear aligners that straighten your teeth. Here is your complete guide to Invisalign.

It can take only a tenth of a second for someone to form their first impression of you.

Are you successful? Attractive? A good fit for a job or second date?

When it comes to leaving your mark on a potential boss or partner, a set of straight, white teeth plays a decisive role. Numerous studies have highlighted the importance of your smile when it comes to looking healthy, trustworthy, and smart. 

Invisalign treatment offers an excellent option to upgrade your smile in a fast and discreet manner.

Many adults may be stalling on their decision to fix their teeth. It can be intimidating to imagine wearing traditional braces made of metal and wire for up to two years.

However, orthodontic technology has come a long way in recent years, and there are many options to get the smile of your dreams.



If you are looking to straighten your teeth in Columbia, keep reading to learn more about Invisalign.

What Is Invisalign?

Humans have been trying to straighten their teeth since ancient times. However, modern braces as we know them have been around for about 200 years.

The desire for discreet, less obtrusive teeth straightening soon followed, and the idea of a clear aligner dates back to 1945. However, it took decades for technology to catch up and make it possible. 

By the year 1997, computer software made it possible to develop a clear aligner that could adjust a patient's teeth over time. This is how Invisalign was born. 



Invisalign offers the patient a series of clear trays specially adapted to their teeth and unique problems. The trays are made of a special kind of see-through plastic. With Invisalign, your teeth will slowly change shape as the trays mold and pressure them.

How Does Invisalign Treatment Work?

When you first speak to your dental professional in Columbia, MD, they will carry out an assessment to see if Invisalign is the best option for your mouth.

If they decide it is, you will undergo digital 3D scans of your mouth. In a short period, your orthodontist will be able to map out a tailor-made treatment plan for you. You will even be able to see 3D imaging of how your teeth will shift over time.

As inspiration, these images will also show you what your smile will look like once you finish your treatment.

Once your aligners have been produced, you will get the first set of trays.

In some cases, you will require small attachments to be fixed to your teeth to help guide the pressure of the aligner in the right direction. These are tooth-colored and, while not invisible, are far less obvious than traditional braces.

Your dentist in Columbia, MD, will explain to you how to insert and take out each aligner. You must wear each set of trays for up to two weeks. Your teeth will slightly shift, and then you will graduate to your next batch.



You can remove the trays to eat, drink, and clean your teeth. However, for them to be effective, you need to wear them for 20-22 hours per day.

How Long Does Invisalign Take?

You should start to see small changes in the position of your teeth in a matter of weeks. However, the total treatment time depends on the severity of your case.

It can take as little as six months or up to a year. Most cases are resolved in less than two years. The most crucial way to wrap your treatment up properly is to listen to your dental professional in Columbia, MD, and wear the trays as much as possible.

The patient's commitment is crucial to Invisalign treatment success.

The good news is that studies have shown that Invisalign is as effective as traditional braces.

When you have completed your treatment, you will be given a more permanent retainer to keep your teeth in place for several months after treatment.

Generally, this is only for a few hours or at night.

Will Invisalign Hurt?

Traditional braces are notorious for the pain that can ensue every time they are tightened.

Invisalign is considered less painful. However, there can be tightness and pressure when you move on to your next tray and insert it for the first time.

Dentists recommend that you exchange your trays just before going to bed so that your mouth can adjust to the new aligners while you sleep.

Am I a Good Candidate for Invisalign?

The best way to know if Invisalign is right for you is to speak to an expert in Columbia cosmetic dentistry.

Nevertheless, many patients can expect a promising outcome with Invisalign. Here are some of the dental conditions that the technology can assist with:



• Crowded teeth
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Gap Teeth
• Early treatment for children
• Generally straighter teeth

How Much Does Invisalign Cost? 

The cost of Invisalign is similar to that of traditional braces. This usually works out to between $3,000 and $5,000.

In some cases, the cost might be covered by insurance. However, for the best idea of how much to budget, pay a visit to your orthodontist for a thorough assessment. 

A Discreet Path to Straight Teeth

There is no need to smile with your mouth closed or cover your teeth with your hand when someone takes a photo. If your crooked teeth are a source of shame, it might be time to try clear aligners in Columbia, MD.

Invisalign treatment is far less visible than traditional methods of straightening your teeth. It will allow you the freedom to enjoy the foods you like, and your aligners can be removed for short periods if need be.



Contact us today to find out more about Columbia cosmetic dentistry.