Invisalign^® Clear Braces in Long Beach, CA

Want to get beautifully straight teeth without having to bother with metal braces? Invisalign^® clear aligners, also called “clear braces,” are an excellent choice. At Orthodontics of Long Beach, we can help you or your child gain a wonderful new smile thanks to Invisalign^®.

What Are Invisalign^® Clear Aligners?

Invisalign^® clear aligners are a type of dental prosthesis that you wear to straighten and correct misaligned teeth. They are made from a non-toxic plastic that is used to create a tray that fits closely over your natural teeth. Every two weeks or so, the trays are replaced as the teeth start to move into the correct position.

What Are the Benefits of Invisalign^® in Long Beach?

Invisalign^® clear aligners have many benefits over traditional braces. First, they are easy to keep clean. Because you remove the aligners while you are eating, food won’t stick in them as with braces. Invisalign^® clear aligners are not adhered to the mouth like braces, although in some cases we might apply small “SmartForce” attachments to specific teeth to improve leverage. Because of this, Invisalign^® clear aligners may be more comfortable, and they also don’t use poky brackets and wires.

What Ages Can Wear Invisalign^® Clear Aligners?

Invisalign^® clear aligners are a popular choice for teenagers and especially adults because they are virtually invisible. In some cases, they may not be the best choice for younger children because the clear aligners can be removed. Why is this a possible issue? Kids may be prone to losing or breaking their Invisalign^® clear aligners. Alternatively, some teenagers may be inclined to take them out when you aren’t around, lessening their effectiveness. For kids who may not do well with compliance, traditional braces are probably a better choice.

How Does the Invisalign^® Process Work?

First, you or your child will be seen by our orthodontist to have a comprehensive evaluation. The orthodontist will examine the mouth, teeth, and gums. We will also take pictures of the mouth and teeth using digital photography and X-rays. If Invisalign^® clear aligners are selected, we will take digital “impressions” of your teeth in 3D, which are then used to create your custom Invisalign^® clear aligner trays.

How Long Do You Wear Invisalign^® Clear Aligners?

The entire Invisalign^® clear aligners treatment may take approximately 12 to 18 months total. Approximately every two weeks, your Invisalign^® clear aligner tray will be replaced as the teeth slowly transition into their correct positions.

On a daily basis, Invisalign^® clear braces need to be worn approximately 20 to 22 hours each day. Failure to wear the clear aligners for the appropriate length of time can slow down the overall treatment time. Thus, you or your child will be wearing Invisalign^® clear aligners almost all the time, and removing them primarily to eat.

How Much Do Invisalign^® Clear Aligners Cost?

Invisalign^® clear aligners generally cost around the same as traditional metal braces. Your dental insurance may help with some of these costs. Additionally, we offer affordable financing options, which can bring your payment down to an affordable monthly charge. Talk to our friendly staff for more information.

Would you like to be able to straighten your teeth without the look of metal braces? Invisalign^® clear aligners may be right for you. Contact us today for an Invisalign^® consultation at Orthodontics of Long Beach.