When you think of braces, you might shudder at the thought of bulky brackets and wires in your mouth for months. Thankfully there are alternatives to metal braces that are just as effective in most cases. Clear aligners like Invisalign are clear plastic trays that fit over your teeth and slowly realign them like traditional metal braces. 

Clear braces aren’t for everyone though — there are several factors you should consider before making a choice. Continue reading to find out how clear braces compare to traditional metal braces, and which Beverly Hills orthodontists are Invisalign providers. 

What Is Invisalign? 

If you're considering orthodontic treatment, you may have heard of Invisalign clear braces. They are a popular alternative to traditional metal braces that use a series of clear plastic aligners to shift your teeth into the desired position gradually.

What attracts most people to consider Invisalign is that it is virtually invisible. This makes it a great option for adults and teens who want to straighten their teeth without the look of traditional metal braces. In addition, the aligners can be removed for short periods of time, so you can eat, brush, and floss as normal.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually move teeth into the desired position.

The process starts with a consultation with an orthodontist who is an Invisalign provider. If they think you are a great candidate for clear aligners, they will start the process by taking a 3D scan of your teeth. This scan is used to create a digital model of your teeth, which is then used to design your custom aligners.

Once your aligners are ready, you will wear them for twenty-two hours a day — removing them only to eat and brush or floss your teeth. Every one to two weeks, you will switch to a new set of aligners, which will continue to move your teeth until they are in the desired position. During your course of treatment, you will see your orthodontist every four to six weeks to make sure you are making the expected progress. 

Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces

When it comes to straightening your teeth, you have two main options: clear braces or traditional metal braces. Both options have their pros and cons, and it's important to consider them carefully before making a decision. Some of the benefits of Invisalign include: 

  • More comfortable than metal braces
  • The ability to remove your braces to eat and brush your teeth
  • No food or drink restrictions like with traditional braces

On the flip side, there are a few downsides to consider: 

  • Remembering to wear your Invisalign aligners for at least 22 hours a day
  • Staining of your clear aligners can occur if you don’t care for your aligners properly
  • If you have extensive orthodontic needs, Invisalign may not be right for you

How Effective Are Clear Aligners Like Invisalign?

Clear aligners like Invisalign have been around for many years, and during that time, they have continued to improve their technology. Nowadays, they are highly effective in treating a wide range of orthodontic issues, including: 

  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • Crossbite
  • Gapped teeth
  • Open bite
  • Crowded teeth

In fact, studies have found that clear aligners are just as effective as traditional metal braces in most cases. This means that if you follow your orthodontist's instructions and wear your aligners as directed, you can expect to see significant improvements in your smile.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Invisalign?

Invisalign clear braces offer a number of benefits over traditional metal braces, but there are also some drawbacks to consider. Here are the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision. 

  • Pro: Nearly Invisible

Invisalign aligners are made of clear plastic and are virtually invisible when worn. This means you can straighten your teeth without feeling self-conscious about your appearance.

  • Pro: Removable

Unlike metal braces, clear aligners are removable. This makes it easier to eat and maintain dental hygiene. 

  • Pro: Comfortable

Clear aligners are made of smooth plastic and don't have any sharp edges or wires like metal braces, which can irritate the sensitive skin of the mouth. 

  • Con: Discipline

For Invisalign to be effective, you need to wear your aligners for at least twenty-two hours a day. This requires discipline and can be difficult for some people.

  • Con: Not Suitable for Extensive Orthodontic Treatment 

Invisalign may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with severe orthodontic issues. Your orthodontist can help you determine if Invisalign is right for you.

How Much Does Invisalign Cost?

The price of Invisalign can vary depending on several factors. What can change the price the most is the complexity of your case, the length of your treatment, and your insurance coverage. 

To get a more accurate estimate of the cost of your treatment, it's best to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist. During your consultation, the orthodontist will evaluate your case and provide you with a personalized treatment plan and cost estimate.

Does Insurance Cover Invisalign?

One of the first questions that most people have when looking into Invisalign is if insurance will help cover the cost. The answer to that is: It depends on your insurance plan.

Many dental insurance plans do offer coverage for Invisalign, but the amount of coverage can vary widely. Some plans may cover a portion of the cost, while others may cover the entire cost up to a certain limit. It's important to check with your insurance provider to find out exactly what your plan covers.

How Long Does Invisalign Take to Straighten Your Teeth?

The length of time you spend in your Invisalign braces depends on a couple of things: how complex your dental issues are and your compliance with wearing the aligners. In general, orthodontic treatment plans range from six to 24 months. 

Benefits of Invisalign Clear Aligners

If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional metal braces, Invisalign is a great choice. Some of the biggest advantages are: 

  • A discreet appearance 
  • Comfortable, custom-fit
  • Removal 
  • Effective treatment

Where to Find Invisalign in Beverly Hills  

In the heart of Beverly Hills, we understand how important it is to be camera-ready. Choosing clear braces over traditional braces is a huge decision — but you don’t have to make this decision alone! Dr. Jonathan Shouhed and our team of Beverly Hills orthodontists are here to guide you every step of the way. 

As an industry leader, West LA Orthodontics is committed to offering cutting-edge orthodontic treatments and comfortable, patient-focused care. That’s what makes us one of the best kids’ orthodontists in Beverly Hills. 

Ready for straighter teeth and your dream smile with the top orthodontist in Beverly Hills?