Invisalign® in Torrance, CA
One of the main concerns people often have about traditional metal braces is the aesthetic impact on their smile.
Especially for adults, the prospect of wearing metal braces for long periods of time can be very discouraging. At Jenuine Smiles Orthodontics in Torrance, Invisalign® clear aligners offer an almost invisible treatment system that straightens teeth quickly, efficiently, and discreetly.
What is Invisalign®?
Treatment with Invisalign® clear aligners consists of a series of custom-made aligning trays. They are nearly invisible plastic aligners that gradually straighten your teeth. In addition to the reduced visual impact, Invisalign® clear aligners can be temporarily removed for important occasions – meaning that treatment duration is patient-controlled. You can brush and floss your teeth with ease.
Unlike traditional braces, there are no brackets and wires. Instead Invisalign® uses an FDA-approved thermoplastic material known as SmartTrack®. This material is free of common plastic allergens, including BPS, BPX, latex and gluten, making it very safe to use.
What kind of bite problems can Invisalign® correct?
Treatment with Invisalign® clear aligners can correct the same dental problems as traditional metal braces; the only difference is that Invisalign® clear aligners are almost invisible to the naked eye, and can be removed at will. Not all dental providers have the same experience treating orthodontic issues with Invisalign® clear aligners, however, Dr. Jen regularly uses Invisalign® clear aligners to correct mild, moderate and severe orthodontic issues, including:
- Crooked teeth
- Overcrowded teeth
- Large gaps
- Open bite
- Crossbite
- Overbite
- Underbite
What does Invisalign® treatment involve?
First, a complimentary consultation with Dr. Jen at our Torrance office is needed to devise an initial treatment plan before creating your customized aligning trays. Dr. Jen will evaluate your smile and bite, taking into account your treatment goals, wants and needs. She will take photographs, orthodontic x-rays, and three-dimensional digital images of your teeth. These images allow Dr. Jen to move specific teeth on the screen, view the jaw from different angles, check you bite to make sure you’re biting evenly and also foresee what your smile might look like at then end of your smile transformation journey. In essence, this technology can show how Invisalign® clear aligners will change your smile!
Dr. Jen uses your 3-D digital impressions to design a custom orthodontic treatment plan that helps you achieve the smile of your dreams. Once planning is complete, a unique set of aligners are manufactured and you are ready to begin your smile transformation journey!
To achieve the best results, Dr. Jen recommends wearing your aligners for 22 hours each day. Only taking them off to eat or brush your teeth. Dr. Jen will send you home with a set of clear aligners, and you’re responsible for moving to the next one in the series every 7-10 days.
You will return to our office every 8-10 weeks for monitoring. This is one of the main benefits of Invisalign –– fewer in-office visits than traditional braces. Our goal is to make this process work for you on your busy schedule!
If you have questions about Invisalign®, please contact Jenuine Smiles Orthodontics in Torrance at hello@jenuinesmiles.com or 310-543-2711.
Individual results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign®
Am I a good candidate for Invisalign®?
Most people with crowding, gaps, or bite problems are. Dr. Jen uses Invisalign® clear aligners to treat mild, moderate, and severe cases, including overbites, underbites, and crossbites. The bigger factor is wear time. Aligners only move teeth while they are in your mouth, so if keeping them in about 22 hours a day is hard for you, braces may be a better fit. At your consultation, Dr. Jen will tell you which option suits your bite.
How long does Invisalign® treatment take?
It depends on how far your teeth need to move. Closing a small gap or fixing mild crowding takes less time than correcting a bite. Once Dr. Jen has your 3D scan, she maps out every tray in your series, so you leave your consultation with an estimated timeline. Wearing each aligner as directed and switching on schedule is what keeps you on track.
Does Invisalign® cost more than braces?
Not at our office. Jenuine Smiles Orthodontics does not charge extra for Invisalign® clear aligners, so choosing aligners will not raise your fee. Your cost depends on the complexity of your case. We offer 0% interest financing through our office with monthly payments, and you can put FSA or HSA dollars toward treatment.
Will Invisalign® change the way I talk?
Some patients notice a slight lisp for the first day or two in a new set of aligners. Your tongue just needs time to adjust to the thin plastic layer over your teeth. Reading aloud or talking more than usual helps it fade faster. Most people sound like themselves again within a few days.
How is Invisalign® with an orthodontist different from mail order aligners?
Mail order aligners are usually planned without an in-person exam, X-rays, or regular checkups. At our Torrance office, Dr. Jen examines your teeth, gums, and bite, reviews your X-rays and 3D scans, and checks your progress at every visit. If a tooth isn't moving as it should, she can adjust your plan before it becomes a bigger problem. You see Dr. Jen at every appointment, from your first consultation to your final tray.