For most patients, a straight smile equals a beautiful smile — but did you know that a properly aligned bite is also better for your overall dental health? Overlapped, crooked, or rotated teeth create a daily cleaning challenge that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

Other signs of a misaligned bite may include chipped teeth, receding gums, or tooth wear, which impacts function and appearance. Helping even a couple misaligned teeth find their proper place can leave you with a healthier mouth — not to mention a stunning new smile!

Dr. Mitzann treating a patient

One of the most effective paths to a straighter and more confident smile is orthodontic treatment with Invisalign clear aligner trays.

At Elevation Dental Studio, we offer Invisalign treatment to adult patients in the Mount Vernon, N.Y. area.

Keep reading to learn about:

Dr. Edmond and her knowledgeable team are also available to answer all of your Invisalign questions. Book an appointment to find out whether Invisalign can help you create your best smile.

What To Expect With Invisalign

Invisalign orthodontic treatment uses a series of clear plastic aligner trays to gradually move your teeth into the ideal position — creating a smile that combines both beauty and optimal function. The length of treatment varies from one patient to the next, but many people see significant results within 6-12 months.

Take a look at a typical Invisalign treatment process:

1. Invisalign Consultation

Choosing to straighten your smile with Invisalign is a big decision, and it’s important to choose a provider like Dr. Edmond who has experience guiding patients through this kind of smile transformation. At your initial visit, Dr. Edmond will evaluate your current smile using an iTero 3D digital scanner to take 3D images of your teeth from every angle. (You won’t find those gummy impression trays here!) Next she will use a sophisticated software program to design your ideal smile and show you a simulation of how each tooth will move into place during treatment.

This part of the process is collaborative — you and Dr. Edmond will work together to define the smile you want. Are you interested in maintaining a slight gap between your front teeth? No problem! This is your smile after all.

2. Receive Your First Aligner Trays

When your first set of aligner trays arrive, you’ll return to the Elevation office so Dr. Edmond can confirm they fit as intended. She will also apply Invisalign attachments to your teeth. These tooth-colored “bumps” help the aligner trays move your teeth more predictably.

Our team will give you plenty of information about how to wear and care for your aligners and teeth during your smile journey with Invisalign.

3. Wear Your Aligners As Instructed

For the next several months, you will wear your aligners 20-22 hours per day, removing them only when you eat or drink. Every 1-2 weeks you will receive a new set of aligner trays designed to help your teeth make the next move in their orthodontic journey.

4. Love Your New Smile!

When your treatment is complete, it’s time to share that beautiful new smile with the world! Dr. Edmond recommends maintaining your new smile with a Vivera Retainer, which is made by the same company that created Invisalign. These durable retainers will keep your smile straight and sparkling for years to come.

Invisalign

Invisalign vs. Braces

If you are familiar with traditional metal braces, it’s helpful to understand that there are some important differences between orthodontic treatment with braces and with Invisalign clear aligners.

  • Aligners are not permanently attached.You will remove your aligners every time you eat, drink or brush your teeth. For the best results, patients should wear their aligners 20-22 hours per day.
  • You can eat all of your favorite foods.Bring on the popcorn and caramel! There are no forbidden foods during Invisalign treatment — just remember to give your teeth a good brushing before you put your aligners back in. Invisalign is virtually invisible. Most people won’t ever know that you’re straightening your teeth!
  • You can skip those extra orthodontic appointments.Although you will check in with Dr. Edmond periodically during your treatment, you can forget emergency visits for broken brackets or poking wires.

Just like with braces, it’s important to maintain excellent dental hygiene during treatment. Brush your teeth after each time you eat or drink before you replace your aligner trays — otherwise food particles can become stuck beneath your aligners, where they can attract decay-causing bacteria.

Most patients find it’s easy enough to carry a small toothbrush with them for a quick after-meal cleaning.

Cost of Invisalign

Invisalign treatment is an investment in the health and appearance of your smile — one that will pay off in comfort and confidence for years to come!

The full cost of Invisalign varies depending on the estimated length of treatment and the complexity of the changes you’re hoping to make to your smile. Many dental insurance plans can offset a portion of the cost, although not all policies cover orthodontic treatment for adults.

Our team is available to help you navigate all of your questions about paying for Invisalign treatment. We can help you understand your insurance coverage and apply for pre-approval.

Call our office to discuss your options for paying for Invisalign.

Invisalign Treatment at Elevation Dental Studio

Whether or not you had braces as a child, it’s never too late to discuss ways to enhance your smile to create the health and confidence you desire.

Invisalign treatment offers an easy way to achieve your smile goals with minimal impact on your lifestyle, and we want to help you explore the possibilities!

Book an appointment at Elevation Dental Studio’s Mount Vernon office to find out if Invisalign is right for you and to take your first step toward the smile of your dreams.