Invisalign®

 


One of the primary concerns people often have about dental braces is the aesthetic impact of the metalwork on their smile. Especially for adults, the prospect of wearing unattractive metal braces for long periods of time can be very discouraging.  Invisalign® offers an almost invisible aligning system that straightens teeth fast and contains no metal.

Invisalign® treatment consists of a series of custom-made aligning trays.  The dentist changes the trays every several weeks to fit the new tooth configuration.  In addition to the reduced visual impact, Invisalign® aligning trays can be temporarily removed for important occasions – meaning that treatment duration is patient-controlled.  A great number of people report complete satisfaction with both the Invisalign® treatment and the stunning results.

What kind of bite problems can Invisalign® correct?

Invisalign® corrects the same dental problems as traditional metal braces; the only difference is that Invisalign® trays are almost invisible to the naked eye, and can be removed at will.

Here are some problems that are commonly corrected with Invisalign®:

  • Overcrowding – This occurs when there is too little space for the teeth to align normally in the mouth.  Overcrowding can cause tooth decay and increase the likelihood of gum disease.
  • Large gaps between teeth – This can sometimes occur because teeth are missing or because the jaw continues to grow abnormally.
  • Crossbite – This common dental problem occurs when one or multiple upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth.  As a consequence, uneven wear can lead to bone erosion and gum disease.
  • Overbite – This problem occurs when the upper teeth project further than, or completely cover, the lower teeth.  Eventually, jaw pain and TMJ may occur.
  • Underbite – This is the inverse of the overbite; the lower teeth project further than, or completely cover the upper teeth.  Eventually, jaw pain and TMJ can occur.

What advantages does Invisalign® offer over traditional braces and veneers?

Traditional dental braces, Invisalign® aligning trays, and dental veneers are three different ways to perfect the alignment of the teeth.  There are many different considerations to make when deciding which treatment will be best, and each of these options works better in certain situations.

Invisalign® differs from traditional braces in that the aligning trays are fully removable.  This means that more discipline and commitment is required from the patient.  This is not usually a problem since the trays are comfortable and nearly invisible.  Almost identical results can be obtained by using either treatment.

Invisalign® is preferable to veneers in many cases because unlike veneers, Invisalign® actually straightens the teeth. Veneers are thin covers that the dentist permanently affixes to the teeth.  Teeth must be etched beforehand, meaning that to remove dental veneers, an alternative covering must be constructed.  In addition to being somewhat expensive, veneers can break and often last for less than 20 years.

What does Invisalign® treatment involve?

First, the dentist needs to devise an initial treatment plan before creating the special aligning trays.  Three-dimensional digital images are taken of the entire jaw.  These images allow the dentist to move specific teeth on the screen, view the jaw from different angles, and also foresee what the face might look like in years to come.  In essence, this technology can show how Invisalign® trays will change the facial aesthetics.

Once planning is complete, a unique set of aligners is made.  The total amount of aligners required varies with each individual case, but 20-29 sets per arch is typical.

What are some considerations when wearing Invisalign® trays?

Life with Invisalign® aligning trays may take several weeks to get used to.  The trays should be worn constantly, except when eating and drinking.  It is important to remove the trays when consuming food or drink because food can become trapped between the tray and the teeth, causing tooth decay.

Usually, new trays are necessary every two weeks, and progress between appointments can be seen with the naked eye. There is no doubt that Invisalign® aligning trays have revolutionized orthodontics.  Invisalign® is renowned for being both comfortable and effective.

 

For more information, please visit their webpage, Invisalign®, or please contact our office.


 

Testimonials.

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Testimonials

Not only is this office beautiful, but Dr. Kim and staff are wonderful. They are very attentive, prompt, and most importantly gentle. Upon arrival I never had to wait more than 5-10 minutes, even if I've been 15 minutes early. I appreciate that my station was always prepared in anticipation of my arrival.
My visits felt more like a day at the spa than a dental appointment, including a long wisdom teeth removal surgery. I was allowed to bring in my phone and play Pandora on speaker during the whole procedure making feel at ease as I was extremely nervous.

Penelope W. - Yelp

Dr. Kim is an Oral Rock Star! By far the best dental experience ever!!!

First thing first...I got 3 text messages, one to confirm my appointment, one for a reminder & the last "we look forward to seeing you"...what a fantastic way to welcome a new patient.

Ms. Aurea is the jovial receptionist/front desk coordinator/insurance pre-cert & advisor all wrapped into one person. She is very friendly with ease & made me feel overly welcomed...in a good way of course. She had no problem answering all of my inquiries & did so with a flow of knowledge & awesome patient service.

The new patient process was a breeze & my wait time was really the shortest I've endured in a medical setting.

The procedure suites are very modernized & artistically designed to the T. The mini flat screens serves as a TV & a computer monitor where you can view your chart, x-Rays & treatment plans.

Christine was my x-Ray Technician & she came in, knew what she was doing & we were done. She has a very natural rapport with the patients & made my experience even better.

& drum roll please....ladies & gentlemen, here comes DR. KIM!!!

The most nicest, personable & authentic physician I have EVER encountered. He introduced himself & was very friendly as he took his time in engaging me & my dental needs & wants. Dr. Kim's expertise exuded such comfort & satisfaction, I was sooooo impressed. He did a pre-consultant before my exam & was very thorough about his findings. He even event over the treatment plan with me as most Dentists leaves that to the non clinical staff. Dr. Kim's approach & services was painless, quick & enjoyable...yes, we had a nice exchange before, during & after my services. Again, such a rarity of great customer service from a dental practice as most Dentists hurry to see all the patients & keep it moving...not Dr. Kim.

I came here as a default from a previous dental visit & can just pull my teeth out for not coming here 1st! As they say, second time around is always better than the 1st.

I look forward to my next visit...who says that about the Dentist? LOL!!!

Team Doc Kim & staff, you all are superstars!

THANK YOU FOR THE BEST DENTAL EXPERIENCE EVER!

Kathryn L. - Yelp

I found Dr. Kim online and chose him because he accepted my insurance had the appointment time I needed. I was pleasantly surprised at how great of an experience it was! The office is gorgeous and the staff were very friendly and helpful. I had a chipped tooth and Dr. Kim helped fix it right away and explained everything he was doing as it was happening. There was no wait time, but if there were to be it is a nice office to sit in with comfortable seating, nice decor, and small snacks and drinks available too! I definitely recommend!

Stephanie K. - ZocDoc

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