Invisalign® clear aligners for hassle-free, discreet teeth straightening
Lead dentist Dr. Joyce Kahng has designed a dental studio with your utmost comfort and experience in mind. No stone has been left unturned in her efforts to create an office in Costa Mesa, California, that is spa-like, warm, and inviting. She has also invested in technologies that support this mission and align well with the “feel” of this “dental home.” Invisalign® is a beautiful fit with these amenities and complementary technologies. It is, indeed, a high-tech way to straighten teeth and correct bite problems.
Clear aligners at Orange and Magnolia Dental Studio
Traditional braces use a system of stainless-steel wires Traditional braces use a system of stainless-steel wires and brackets, which place consistent pressure on the teeth to move them into their proper positions. These braces are fixed (not removable), and traditionally the silver-colored brackets and wires have been noticeable when patients smile.
Clear aligners such as Invisalign® use a series of oral appliances to reposition teeth. These appliances or trays are customized to fit your mouth. When worn as directed, they place consistent force on the teeth. Similar to braces, the Invisalign® aligners gradually reposition the teeth. When we say, “wear as directed,” these aligners can be removed when eating meals and when brushing and flossing. To assure your treatment stays on track, compliance is essential. You must keep the aligners on for at least 20 to 22 hours each day. Each aligner corresponds with a different phase or steps in the treatment process. So, after around two weeks, you will begin wearing the next aligner in the series of aligner trays, which corresponds with the next stage of treatment. For this reason, it is also essential to wear the trays in the correct order. Dr. Kahng will check that treatment is progressing as it should be every six weeks or so.
Invisalign® is:
- Discreet, the trays are clear because the proprietary SmartTrack® plastic is transparent.
- Hassle-free, the trays are easy to wear, adjust to, and care for
- Precise aligners use the same principles as traditional orthodontic treatment to effectively move teeth and correct bite issues.
- Efficient treatment times are comparable to braces.
- Versatile, over time, Invisalign’s design and materials have evolved to where it can correct more modest “cosmetic” issues as effortlessly as it can fix more extensive bite problems.
- Comfortable, SmartTrack® is also smooth – no wires and brackets to poke at the insides of the mouth or to potentially break.
- Promotes health, good nutrition is maintained, and excellent oral hygiene since the aligners may be removed when eating and cleaning the teeth and gums.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign® Clear Aligners
What dental issues can Invisalign solve?
Invisalign is a versatile orthodontic treatment system. It can address a wide range of mild to moderate alignment issues, including crowding, spacing, and misalignment, as well as certain bite problems such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites. An orthodontic consultation will help determine whether Invisalign is the right solution for your specific needs.
Does Invisalign treatment hurt?
Invisalign aligners apply consistent but gentle pressure on your teeth to move them into their desired positions. However, you may experience slight discomfort, especially when you move to a new aligner. The good news? Discomfort is short-lived and is a good sign that your aligners are working. Without wires and brackets that irritate soft tissues, many patients report that Invisalign is far more comfortable than traditional braces.
Do Invisalign clear aligners affect how I speak?
At first, yes. You might notice a slight change in your speech when you first start wearing aligners. You may notice a slight lisp, usually affecting words with ‘s’, ‘sh’, and ‘z’. The good news? Any speech change lasts a few days as the tongue adjusts. You may even speed up the adjustment by reading aloud or practicing hard-to-pronounce words.
Can I eat with my aligners on?
It’s not a good idea. Chewing food can damage your aligners, and drinking coffee and other beverages can stain them. Always remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything except water. You can also remove your aligners during special occasions, such as photo sessions. Just remember, you must wear your aligners for at least 22 hours to ensure your treatment progresses as expected.
Can I smoke while wearing my clear aligners?
We do not recommend it. Smoking while wearing aligners can stain them, making them more noticeable. It’s best to remove your aligners beforehand and clean your teeth before reinserting them. Better yet, quit smoking altogether to maintain optimal oral and overall health.
What happens if I damage or lose my aligner?
Don’t panic! It happens. If you damage or lose your aligner, contact your Invisalign dentist immediately. Depending on where you are with treatment, your doctor may advise you to switch to the next set of aligners or wear a previous set temporarily. Prompt action helps keep your treatment on track.
How long does treatment take with Invisalign?
The longevity of your treatment depends on the severity of your orthodontic issue.
- Mild cases: 6-12 months
- Moderate cases: 12-24 months
Invisalign is designed for speed. However, you need to be consistent for the best results. That means you wear your aligners for at least 20-22 hours daily. Skipping aligners can prolong treatment even for seemingly minor dental issues.
How much is Invisalign in Costa Mesa, CA?
The cost of treatment ranges between $6,000 and $8,000, depending on the complexity of your treatment. At our office, we’ll share a cost breakdown before any treatment begins to ensure you proceed with clarity. We also understand that Invisalign treatment can be a significant financial commitment. To make your treatment more accessible, we accept financing through Cherry, so you can begin treatment now and pay over time with low to zero interest.
Does insurance cover the cost of Invisalign?
Coverage varies by plan. It’s a good idea to check with your insurance provider. Our team can also verify your benefits and even file claims on your behalf to make your experience smoother.
Where can I find an Invisalign dentist in Costa Mesa, CA?
Invisalign is a modern orthodontic system for straightening your teeth without the hassle of metal braces. Don’t let orthodontic issues hold you back any longer. Call (949) 867-4346 and schedule an appointment with Orange and Magnolia Dental Studio. Straighten your teeth and improve your bite with our nationally recognized cosmetic dentist, Dr. Joyce Kahng.
As a modern orthodontic treatment, Invisalign® technology allows Dr. Kahng to show you exactly how the aligners reposition your teeth throughout the straightening process. She can show you what your new smile will look like by using sophisticated software and 3-D modeling. Schedule your consultation at our dental studio, aptly located at Orange Avenue and Magnolia Street, by calling (949) 867-4346.
