Clear aligners, like Invisalign, are a popular, easy-to-wear option for straightening teeth, but they aren’t the best fit for everyone.
Getting the best results depends on picking the right dental team and understanding the whole process. Before you begin treatment, it’s important to have all the information.
We recommend that anyone considering clear aligners ask these five important questions to make sure their experience is smooth, effective, and just right for them.
Is the Treatment Being Supervised by a General Dentist or a Certified Orthodontic Specialist?
The qualifications and specific expertise of your provider are perhaps the most significant factor in your treatment’s success. While many general dentists, including our skilled team at Devon Dental Centre, receive comprehensive training and are highly experienced in administering Invisalign treatment, there is a distinction to be aware of.
An orthodontic specialist is a dentist who has completed an additional two to three years of accredited, full-time university-based residency training focused exclusively on the diagnosis, prevention, and correction of dental and facial irregularities.
This intensive training provides them with deep expertise in tooth movement, jaw function, and facial aesthetics. For extremely complex cases involving significant bite issues or jaw alignment problems, a specialist may be the most appropriate choice.
Our general dentists possess significant experience and a proven track record with a wide range of Invisalign cases, from simple to moderately complex. We conduct a meticulous initial assessment to determine if your specific needs align with our expertise. We take pride in our diagnostic thoroughness and will always refer you to a trusted orthodontic specialist if we believe your case would benefit from their advanced training. Our primary commitment is to your optimal oral health and a successful result.
What Technology Do You Use for Diagnosis and Treatment Planning?
The accuracy of your treatment plan is the foundation of your entire Invisalign journey. Outdated impression methods can lead to ill-fitting aligners and compromised results.
We utilize advanced digital iTero® scanners instead of traditional, messy putty impressions. This wand-like device creates a precise, comfortable, and instant 3D digital model of your teeth and gums.
This digital scan is far more accurate than a physical mould, which can distort. The scan is then used to create a proprietary, proprietary virtual treatment plan called ClinCheck®. This advanced software allows us to preview the entire step-by-step movement of your teeth from start to finish before you even receive your first set of aligners. We will review this animated plan with you in detail, ensuring you have a clear vision of the projected outcome and can provide your input.
What Is the Total Cost, and What Does It Include?
Understanding the full financial commitment is crucial. A transparent cost breakdown prevents unexpected expenses later. When you receive a treatment quote, it is vital to clarify what is included.
The total cost at Devon Dental Centre is an all-inclusive fee for your entire Invisalign journey. This comprehensive fee covers the initial diagnostic records (including digital scans and X-rays), the complete series of custom-made aligners, all progress check appointments, any necessary refinements (additional sets of aligners to perfect the result if needed), and the essential post-treatment retainers.
Retainers are critical for maintaining your new smile, and their cost is not an optional add-on but a necessary part of the process. We also provide flexible payment plans to make this valuable investment in your smile more accessible, and we will help you understand and maximize your dental insurance benefits.
How Complex Is My Case, and What Realistic Results Can I Expect?
Managing expectations is a cornerstone of patient satisfaction. Invisalign is an incredibly powerful tool, but it does have limitations. It is essential to have a realistic conversation about what can be achieved with your specific dental anatomy.
During your consultation at our Devon office, we will provide a candid assessment of your case’s complexity. We will explain the specific movements required to achieve your goals and whether they fall within the predictable range of Invisalign treatment.
For some patients, achieving a “perfect” textbook result might not be feasible without alternative orthodontic methods, and we believe in transparently discussing this. We use the ClinCheck® simulation to show you a scientifically projected outcome, so you can see the potential results and discuss any concerns before you begin. Our goal is to ensure you are delighted with both the process and the final smile.
What Is the Protocol for Appointments and Oral Hygiene During Treatment?
Understanding the practical day-to-day commitment helps you integrate treatment seamlessly into your life. Compliance is the single biggest factor under your control that influences success.
Your appointment schedule at Devon Dental Centre is designed for efficiency. After the initial records appointment, you will typically visit our office every 6 to 8 weeks for brief progress checks.
These appointments are essential for us to monitor your progress and provide you with the next series of aligners. Regarding oral hygiene, you must remove your aligners to eat and drink anything except water. This means you will brush and floss your teeth after every meal before reinserting the aligners to prevent staining and decay.
The aligners themselves also need to be cleaned daily with a soft toothbrush and clear, antibacterial soap or the official Invisalign cleaning crystals. We provide you with a detailed care kit and instructions to make this routine simple and effective.
Choosing Invisalign is a significant decision that impacts your daily life and long-term oral health. By asking these critical questions, you take an active role in ensuring you select a provider who is transparent, experienced, and committed to your success. At Devon Dental Centre, we welcome these discussions and are dedicated to providing you with the clear, detailed answers you deserve.
For more information, feel free to reach us at [email protected] or (780) 987 1046, and let us create a personalized experience just for you.