Our office provides the most state-of-the-art procedures available to ensure optimal results for our patients. Invisalign® is a revolutionary system that utilizes 3-D computer graphics to design and manufacture customized clear appliances called “Aligners.” Invisalign appliances are virtually undetectable, easy-to-use, and comfortable to wear, ensuring that you can smile confidently both during and after treatment!
Q: How much does Invisalign cost?
A: As with other types of orthodontic treatment, the cost of Invisalign depends on the complexity of a patient’s case. The cost is generally slightly more expensive than traditional braces, but find out what your individual treatment involves by contacting our office for a free consultation! Here at Khan Orthodontics, we do not let finances stand in the way of you getting the beautiful smile you deserve. We offer a number of payment plans that allow any treatment to fit our patients’ budget.
Q: Does Invisalign really work?
A: Yes. In both clinical research and in orthodontic and dental practices nationwide, Invisalign has been proven to be highly effective at straightening teeth.
Q: Does insurance cover Invisalign?
A: Because medical benefits differ significantly from policy to policy, each patient should review their coverage to determine if Invisalign would be covered by your insurance. However, if a patient has orthodontic coverage, Invisalign should be covered to the same extent as conventional braces.
Q: What are aligners made of?
A: Aligners are made of clear, strong, medical-grade plastic that is virtually invisible when worn.
Q: What do aligners look like?
A: Aligners are nearly invisible and look similar to clear tooth-whitening trays, but they are custom-made for a better fit to move teeth. Some orthodontists and dentists have referred to them as “contact lenses for teeth.”
Q: How does Invisalign effectively move teeth?
A: Like brackets and arch wires, Invisalign aligners move teeth through the appropriate placement of controlled force on the teeth. The principal difference is that Invisalign not only controls the force, but also controls the timing of the force application. At each stage, only certain teeth are allowed to move, and these movements are determined by the orthodontic treatment plan for that particular stage. This results in an efficient force delivery system.
Q: What is the minimum age a patient must be to be treated with Invisalign?
A: Doctors can use Invisalign to treat a vast majority of patients with fully-erupted molars.
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and are more comfortable today than ever before. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets and archwires. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are therefore less visible on your teeth than metal braces. For this reason, ceramic braces are used mainly on older teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns. While they are visually less prominent, they do require more attention to oral hygiene, because ceramic braces are larger and more brittle than their metal counterparts. For these reasons, ceramic braces tend to be used more on upper front teeth than on lower teeth.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are hidden behind the teeth and are therefore “invisible” when you smile. Lingual braces are 100% customized to match the shape of your teeth, and the metal appliances are created uniquely for you. Lingual braces are a very reasonable option for athletes, models, actors/actresses, musicians who play wind instruments, and adult professionals.
Who should wear braces?
Braces may be worn by both children and adults, not only to improve the attractiveness of their smile, but also because braces correct improper alignment of teeth that can lead to gum disease and early tooth loss. Left untreated, crooked teeth with irregular spacing make cleaning harder and allow cavities to more easily develop. Properly aligned teeth also make it easier to chew all types of food, and will eliminate the headaches and pain caused by uneven chewing. Uneven teeth may result in weak enamel, gum problems, and jaw misalignment. Modern technology has resulted in numerous options for braces that will fit your specific lifestyle and will provide you with more comfort during treatment.
What will my braces look like?
Braces are lighter, more comfortable, and more technologically advanced today than ever before. They come in clear and a variety of colors and material choices. Ask the office staff about what options are available. Other appliances include colorful bands, elastics, and retainers.
How will braces straighten my teeth?
Braces exert a gentle pressure on teeth over time to straighten them. The two main components include the braces placed on the teeth and the arch wire that connects them. The brace is a specially-shaped metal or ceramic affixed to each tooth, and the arch wire is bent to reflect the bite that the patient should have after treatment. The wire threads through the braces, and as the wire tries to return to its original shape, it applies pressure to move the teeth.
Are braces uncomfortable?
There have been some fantastic advances made in modern orthodontics over time to make treatment more comfortable and quicker for patients. There are now smaller, smoother braces and gentler wires which provide a continuous small force over a long period of time, rather than a strong force for only a short period of time. Typically, there is some discomfort after the braces are first put on. Over-the-counter pain relievers and a soft foods diet will help alleviate this temporary discomfort.
Will braces affect playing sports?
You should be able to play just about any sport while wearing braces. However, it is recommended that you wear a mouth guard while participating in certain sports.
Why are retainers so important?
Retainers help keep your teeth aligned at the completion of treatment. If they are not worn as instructed, your teeth will move back out of place over time.
How long will my orthodontic treatment last?
Treatment may last anywhere from 18 to 36 months, though this will vary depending on your individual orthodontic needs. Your cooperation in keeping scheduled orthodontic appointments, maintaining proper oral hygiene, and taking care of your braces may allow you to finish your orthodontic treatment earlier than anticipated.
When should I visit the dentist?
You should continue to see your dentist every 6 months or as directed during orthodontic treatment for routine dental checkups and cleanings.
How much does orthodontic treatment cost?
Orthodontic fees depend on the complexity of the orthodontic needs, the age of the patient, and the estimated length of treatment time. Since each patient is different, a visit to the office for a complimentary examination will allow you to get a better idea of the fee. We offer a variety of payment options with low down payments, 0% interest, and affordable monthly payments.
How does insurance work?
Please provide us with your insurance information at your first appointment. We accept and file most insurance plans.
Your braces will be attached quickly and easily to your teeth, but a full day is necessary for the bands to completely affix. It is a good idea to wait several hours after getting braces before eating solid food. You may find it easier to eat soft foods for the first couple of days while you are becoming accustomed to eating with your new braces.
Comfort Concerns
The braces may feel a little awkward at first, and the teeth may be tender or sensitive to pressure. This is completely normal and will go away soon. It may feel as though the braces are “sticking out” at first, but this sensation will also soon pass. Small pieces of orthodontic wax may be used if the brackets irritate cheek tissues. The orthodontic office always has extra wax in case you run out, so give us a call if you need more!
Many patients will experience some discomfort at first, but the soreness will go away within the first few days or even hours of getting braces. It is impossible to predict exactly when the tenderness will end. Some patients choose to take over-the-counter pain relievers the first day of treatment to lessen the discomfort. To ensure the best result, take the medications before your appointment.
Eating Right
Braces are attached to your teeth with a strong adhesive, but may become loose as a result of eating certain foods. It is also possible that wires could become bent or broken without proper care. Since it is best to achieve orthodontic treatment goals with as few disruptions as possible, a well-balanced diet is important to ensure a healthy environment for your teeth.
Patients should avoid foods that are sticky, hard or chewy. They should also avoid any food and drinks that are known to cause cavities. Patients should brush, floss and rinse their mouth regularly between meals.
Eating restricted foods may cause problems which will result in extra visits for repairs and will ultimately extend the length of treatment. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy these restricted foods after completing your treatment. Any specific questions about food choices should be directed to Dr. Khan and the team.
Achieving a healthy bite is important at any age. Left untreated, crooked teeth can lead to periodontal disease and create abnormal amounts of stress on teeth and jaws which can lead to premature wear. The effects of crooked teeth can get worse over time and can adversely affect your overall health. It is important to have an evaluation done by an orthodontist to see if you can benefit from orthodontic treatment.
Crowded teeth, the opposite of spacing, is caused where there just isn’t enough space in the mouth for all your teeth. Crowding just gets worse over time as one tooth pushes over the other, leading to overlapping teeth. Crowded teeth are harder to clean than straight teeth, which will eventually lead to cavities and tooth decay. Crowding can often be corrected by expansion so as to avoid tooth removal.
In an underbite, the lower jaw is longer than the upper one, which causes the lower teeth to protrude in front of the upper teeth. It is best to diagnose the problem early.
An overbite, or deep bite, is when the front teeth cover the lower teeth too much. An excessive overbite leads to wearing down of the teeth and may even cause the bottom teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth.
The malocclusion known as spacing is too much room between the teeth. Spacing can occur if teeth are missing, small, or if the dental arch is wide. The most common complaint from patients with excessive spacing is cosmetic.
A crossbite is when the back upper teeth fit into the inside of the lower back teeth. A crossbite causes tooth stratification and misaligned jaw growth.
When the upper front teeth stick out too far forward, or the lower teeth don’t extend enough, this is called protrusion. Because of the abnormal contact between the upper and lower front teeth, it could cause injury to the lower teeth. It also causes poor bites and may even be from uneven jaw growth. This problem can be caused by thumb and finger sucking.
In a perfectly aligned face, there should be a straight line from the bridge of the nose to the bottom teeth – all should be lined up. If they are not and the bottom teeth are actually misaligned from the top teeth, then your midlines are off. When your midlines are off, your teeth could be drifted or your lower jaw could be shifted, which would result in an improper bite.
The common result of thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, an open bite, is when you can actually stick your tongue between your teeth while biting down. An open bite is a cosmetic problem, but it can also cause chewing problems.
Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems, or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.
Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later on. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.
Some of the most direct positive results of interceptive, early treatment are:
Give your child a head start on a great smile by making sure that they are working with an orthodontist by the age of 7!