5421 Whittaker Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197

Mon-Thurs: 7am-7pm, Fri: 7am-5pm

Patient Portal Schedule An Appointment 734-480-0033

Comprehensive Dentistry Blog

Comprehensive Dentistry has been providing families with high-quality dental services and improved oral health since 2006.

Schedule An Appointment

What Does Invisalign Do? A Dentist Explains

A person with diffetent dental options

If you’ve ever wished for a straighter smile, Invisalign may be the right choice to fix crooked teeth. In this article, we’ll explain what Invisalign is and how it works and answer some common questions about it.

What Does Invisalign Fix?

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth using clear plastic aligners. These aligners are custom-made for each person, gently moving teeth into the correct position over time.

Unlike braces, Invisalign trays are nearly invisible and can be removed for eating, drinking, and brushing teeth. Invisalign uses advanced 3D computer imaging technology to map your entire treatment journey, from your current tooth alignment to your ideal smile. Based on this plan, a custom series of clear aligners is crafted exclusively for you, gradually shifting your teeth into place.

Each aligner is worn for approximately two weeks before progressing to the next in the series, continuing until your desired alignment is achieved. Invisalign can fix many common dental problems, including:

  1. Crooked Teeth – If your teeth are not straight, Invisalign can gradually move them into place.
  2. Gaps Between Teeth – If you have small spaces between your teeth, Invisalign can help close the gaps.
  3. Crowded Teeth – If your teeth are too close together, Invisalign can create space so they align properly.
  4. Bite Problems – Invisalign can help fix mild to moderate overbites, underbites, and crossbites.

How Long Does Invisalign Take?

The time it takes to straighten your teeth with Invisalign depends on how much movement is needed. Most people wear Invisalign for 12 to 18 months, but some may see results in as little as six months.

It is important to wear the aligners at least 22 hours per day to get the best results.

Does Invisalign Fix Overbite?

Yes, Invisalign can help fix mild to moderate overbites. The clear aligners gently shift the teeth and jaw into a better position over time.

However, traditional braces or other orthodontic treatments may be needed if the overbite is severe.

Invisalign vs. Braces: What’s the Difference?

Both Invisalign and braces help straighten teeth, but they work differently:

  1. Appearance: Invisalign is clear and almost invisible, while braces have metal wires and brackets.
  2. Comfort: Invisalign trays are smooth and do not have wires that can poke the inside of your mouth.
  3. Removability: You can take out Invisalign trays to eat, drink, and brush your teeth. Braces stay on your teeth at all times.
  4. Treatment Time: The time needed for both treatments varies depending on the person’s teeth, but braces are often required for more complex cases.
  5. Cost: Braces and Invisalign can cost about the same, depending on the treatment needed.

What Does Invisalign Cost?

The cost of Invisalign depends on the complexity of your case and how long the treatment lasts. On average, Invisalign costs between $3,000 and $7,000. At Comprehensive Dentistry, we offer affordable solutions to make dental care available for more patients, including the following options:

  1. Cherry Financial Services: Flexible payment plans to spread the cost of your care over monthly payments. Easy to use and online access. Choose from multiple monthly payment plans with 0% APR options.
  2. Membership Program: For our patients only, discounts on preventive care and reduced costs on other services for a low annual fee.
  3. Flexible Payment Plans: We do a complimentary insurance benefits check at the beginning of your appointment. Before we treat you, we estimate what insurance will cover and give you more accurate information. We also use Care Credit, a credit card for medical and dental work that allows patients to set up payment plans.

Work With Your Dentist on the Next Steps

Invisalign can fix common dental issues, including crooked teeth, gaps, and bite problems. While Invisalign may not work for severe cases, it is a comfortable and convenient choice for many people.

If you’re considering Invisalign, talk to your dentist to see if it’s right for you!