Do you have misaligned or crooked teeth? Are you looking for a comfortable alternative to metal braces?

Dr. Samantha Leatherwood is an Invisalign provider in Denton, TX. She often uses Invisalign as an alternative to braces to treat crooked teeth, a misaligned bite, gaps between teeth, an overbite, underbite, or overcrowded teeth.

Made of clear, durable plastic, Invisalign repositions the teeth and gradually realigns the bite. Dr. Leatherwood works with her patients as individuals to help them better understand the Invisalign treatment process and expected outcomes.

BENEFITS OF INVISALIGN

  • Do not irritate the gums
  • Are removable for good oral hygiene
  • Offer a short treatment time
  • Provide conservative treatment
  • Do not require dietary restrictions

AM I A CANDIDATE FOR INVISALIGN?

Dr. Leatherwood evaluates each patient to determine if they are a good candidate for Invisalign. Invisalign is best for mild to moderate orthodontic concerns. Invisalign may not be able to resolve more severe orthodontic concerns.

In addition, Dr. Leatherwood will ensure that you have good dental health before you pursue any orthodontic treatment. She may have to treat any underlying dental health concerns to ensure that treatment goes smoothly.

INVISALIGN TREATMENT

First, Dr. Leatherwood will need to determine if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment. If you are, she will create a custom treatment plan that she will gear towards your specific needs. Digital impressions will be taken of your teeth and sent to an Invisalign lab. There, they will create a series of custom, clear aligners.

Once the aligners are ready, we will give you the first set to wear. You will need to change them out about every week or two. Doing this will gradually reposition your teeth into proper alignment. Dr. Leatherwood will check on your progress about every six to eight weeks. Some patients finish treatment in six months but it could take up to 18 months.

INVISALIGN INVISIBLE ALIGNERS VS TRADITIONAL METAL BRACES

Invisalign is a better teeth straightening option when compared to traditional metal braces. While braces are typically metal and very noticeable, the Invisalign aligners are clear and discreet. This makes teeth straightening a less embarrassing treatment.

Braces require having brackets bonded to your teeth for the entire length of your treatment. On the other hand, you can remove your Invisalign invisible aligners for about three hours a day. This will allow you to eat, floss, and brush your teeth easily. You can eat what you like and maintain a proper oral hygiene routine without extra care. Additionally, you will never have to worry about food getting stuck in your brackets.

Metal braces are known to cause minor injuries inside the mouth. They are uncomfortable and may cut or scratch the soft tissue inside the mouth. Additionally, the brackets can possibly cause enamel staining. The Invisalign aligners are smooth and comfortable and will not cut or scratch the soft tissues inside the mouth. They will sit comfortably on your teeth without harming your enamel.

Lady wearing a Invisalign

INVISALIGN FAQS

Do you want to learn more about Invisalign? Read the answers to frequently asked questions about Invisalign below:

HOW LONG IS INVISALIGN TREATMENT?

Patients who follow our instructions and wear their aligners for the appropriate amount of time will begin to see straighter teeth within the first month of treatment. Your Invisalign treatment will be complete in about twelve to eighteen months. Each patient’s treatment time will depend on how crooked and misaligned their teeth are.

DOES INSURANCE COVER INVISALIGN?

Your dental insurance may not cover Invisalign since it is a cosmetic treatment. Our team can help you with any billing and paperwork to maximize your dental insurance benefits for this treatment. It might be a good idea to contact your insurance provider to see if they offer dental insurance coverage for Invisalign.

IS INVISALIGN TREATMENT PAINFUL?

Invisalign treatment is often found to be less painful than traditional metal braces. The process of having the dentist attach the metal braces to the teeth is an uncomfortable experience. Also, the metal parts can often irritate the gums and even cut the soft tissues inside the mouth. On the other hand, you may feel some mild pressure or discomfort when you switch to a new set of aligners. This is totally normal and you should expect this. However, this will fade as your teeth adjust.

HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO WEAR THE ALIGNERS?

You must wear the aligners for 22-23 hours a day in order for them to be effective. We suggest only removing them to eat, brush, and floss. Not wearing them for this many hours a day may delay your treatment time.

Schedule a Dental Appointment

Please contact our Denton office if you have crooked or misaligned teeth and are looking for a discreet solution. We will help you create a more balanced and functional smile. You can reach our office at (940) 220-3566. You may also request a consultation online.