Invisalign Gettysburg PA

Do you want to straighten your teeth and improve the appearance of your smile without metal braces? Invisalign® is a modern, innovative way to straighten teeth using a clear aligner system as an alternative to metal wires or brackets. Over time, the aligners shift your teeth to meet your dental health needs and improve the aesthetics of your smile.

Invisalign is often the perfect solution for adults needing treatment for mild to moderate orthodontic concerns, including orthodontic relapse. Dr. Rita Tempel is a Gettysburg Invisalign provider and helps patients achieve straighter, healthier smiles using clear aligners. Invisalign offers a discreet, comfortable treatment option that does not impact your ability to enjoy your favorite foods and interact without feeling self-conscious about wearing braces. What could Invisalign do for your smile?

Invisalign Treatment in Gettysburg, PA

We take x-rays to plan Invisalign treatment accurately. These x-rays allow us to view the bone and root structure. Then, we take dental impressions to create personalized trays. Next, we send these dental impressions to a dental lab, where they create the Invisalign aligners. Once the aligners are complete, we ensure that the first pair fits patients precisely. 

Patients must wear their trays for 22 hours daily, even when asleep. To clean their aligners, patients must remove the trays and gently brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Every six weeks at routine visits, we will offer replacement aligners and give recommendations to keep patients on track.

Invisalign vs Traditional Braces

Metal braces use wires and brackets that pressure the teeth to move them into a better position. Patients with multiple moderate to severe orthodontic problems benefit from metal braces. Braces are best for patients with overbites, crossbites, underbites, or large gaps between teeth.

Patients wearing braces must avoid sticky, hard, and crunchy foods that can damage their orthodontic appliance. Braces patients must also visit an orthodontist for wire replacements and new bracket rubber bands. Sometimes new wires can poke and irritate the gums. 

Invisalign aligners are easily removable, so patients can eat, brush, and floss without restrictions. Teenagers and adults with mild or moderate orthodontic issues benefit from Invisalign treatment. We will recommend regular visits for Invisalign every six weeks, though patients will feel minimal pain or soreness at these visits. Our team will provide patients with their new aligners at these visits. 

Invisalign Q&A

Discover more about Invisalign with answers to questions that patients commonly ask:

How long is Invisalign treatment?

Although every patient’s treatment time will vary, Invisalign can take 6 to 18 months for routine cases. Patients who wear their aligners at least 22 hours a day and adequately care for them are likelier to complete treatment on time. Additionally, patients will switch out each pair of aligners every two weeks. 

Can I drink water with Invisalign?

Yes, patients can wear Invisalign when they drink water. However, patients must remove their aligners when they eat or drink anything other than water. Juice, soda, and other drinks can still stain or damage the Invisalign aligners. 

Do I have to wear a retainer after treatment?

Using a retainer will keep your teeth in position and avoid orthodontic relapse. Dr. Tempel will discuss retainer use for the initial few months after treatment and moving forward. A retainer protects your new smile and the investment you have made in achieving it.

How do I clean my Invisalign aligners

You will need to clean your Invisalign aligners by gently brushing them with a soft toothbrush and mild soap. There is also official Invisalign cleaning products you can use. Toothpaste can be too abrasive and may scratch the aligners so it is best to avoid it. Rinse them thoroughly with lukewarm water after every cleaning. You must clean your aligners daily to prevent odors and bacteria buildup. Also, remember to brush and floss your teeth before putting the aligners back in your mouth to maintain good oral hygiene during the treatment.

Will my dental insurance cover Invisalign?

Your dental insurance may or may not offer partial coverage of Invisalign. There are many different types of insurances available and the type of coverage they offer varies. Some offer partial coverage, similar to what they offer for traditional braces. However, it is hard to find a dental insurance plan that covers all of your treatment. The extent of your coverage will depend on the type of plan you have and what your benefits include. We encourage you to check with your insurance provider to understand the details of your coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses.

Can Invisalign fix severe orthodontic issues?

Invisalign is an effective orthodontic treatment for mild to moderate cases of the following issues: crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. However, if you suffer from severe or complex orthodontic issues, you may need a more effective treatment such as traditional braces or other specialized orthodontic treatments. A consultation with an orthodontic professional can determine the most appropriate solution for specific cases.

Is Invisalign treatment painful?

Invisalign treatment is considered less painful than traditional braces. Patients may experience some discomfort or pressure when they switch to a new set of aligners. However, this is usually temporary and indicates that the treatment is working.

Straighten Your Smile

Do you want a straighter and more balanced smile? Try Invisalign. Request a dental appointment at Gettysburg Smiles online or call (717) 853-1552. Let us know if you have questions or concerns for us, and we will help you at your next dental visit.