Invisalign® Clear Aligner Therapy in Fort Smith, AR
Have you been dreaming about having a straighter smile for what feels like forever? Our experienced dental team in Fort Smith loves working with patients to help them achieve their ideal smiles using Invisalign clear aligner therapy. Invisalign is a very discreet orthodontic option, and the aligners are completely removable, which means there are no food or activity restrictions to worry about. To learn more or to schedule your Invisalign consultation, please get in touch with our friendly front office team.
Contact UsHow does Invisalign work?
Once impressions have been taken and your treatment plan has been determined, you will have to wear your clear aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours per day. It’s important that patients wear their clear aligners any time they are not eating, drinking, or brushing their teeth at night, as the aligners need to have enough time to shift the teeth properly. Every two weeks, patients switch to the next aligner in the series to continue the process. Occasional orthodontic visits are also needed so we can track your progress and ensure that everything looks good.
Is it painful to wear clear aligners?
When you first begin wearing clear aligners, you can expect to feel some soreness and discomfort for at least the first couple of days. This just means that they’re working! We recommend eating cold foods like popsicles, taking over-the-counter pain medication, or applying dental wax to any areas of the aligner that are causing particular discomfort. It’s also a good idea to switch to your next aligner before you go to bed, so your teeth can begin their initial movements while you are asleep.
Who is eligible for Invisalign?
Invisalign treatment plans can be utilized by almost everyone who wants to achieve a straighter smile. Over the years, Invisalign technology has expanded to be able to treat more advanced orthodontic issues that only metal braces could treat. Invisalign does require a commitment on the part of the patient, but if you are ready to have straighter teeth, our team would love to examine your smile and discuss your treatment plan with you during your orthodontic consultation with our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What issues can Invisalign fix?
Invisalign can effectively correct a variety of orthodontic issues, including crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. There are some complex orthodontic problems that clear aligner therapy cannot treat, but our team can assess your smile and decide if Invisalign would be appropriate for your situation.
How do you clean Invisalign aligners?
To properly clean Invisalign aligners, it’s essential to gently brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap. Rinse them thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove any soap residue. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and cause scratches on the aligners, making them appear more noticeable. Additionally, regularly soak the aligners in a denture cleaner or a specially formulated Invisalign cleaning solution to keep them fresh and hygienic.
How long does Invisalign take to straighten teeth?
The duration of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the complexity of the orthodontic issues being addressed and the individual’s response to treatment. On average, treatment with Invisalign typically takes about 12 to 18 months for many patients. Our team can give you an estimate of approximately how long your treatment will take during your consultation. Regularly wearing the aligners as instructed and attending scheduled check-ups can help ensure the most effective and timely results.
