NobleCare Orthodontics can help you if you’re wondering if Invisalign is the right fit for your smile. Braces have been around for decades, but clear aligners have soared in popularity. You see them on TV and social media, and you may even have a friend who swears by them. In our Encino office, Dr. Shayesteh helps people like you decide if these nearly invisible trays are the match for you.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a treatment that involves a series of clear, plastic aligners. Each aligner fits over your teeth. Over time, these trays shift your teeth into better alignment. You switch to a new aligner set from Dr. Shayesteh every week or two, depending on your plan. There’s no metal or wires, and most of your Encino neighbors won’t even know you’re wearing them.
Instead of glued brackets, our NobleCare Orthodontics team gives you thin, custom-made trays. You can take them out for meals, brushing, and flossing. You can also remove them briefly for special events or photos. They’re designed to keep your lifestyle simple while helping correct common orthodontic problems.
Benefits of Invisalign
What can Invisalign from Dr. Shayesteh do for you?
Subtle Appearance
The aligners are transparent. When you speak or smile, it’s hard for others to spot them. If you’re self-conscious about braces, these trays let you straighten your teeth with less notice.
Removable Convenience
It’s easy to pop them out before a meal. You won’t need to change your diet because there aren’t any wires that can bend or break. Plus, brushing and flossing are simpler. You can keep up with dental hygiene without working around brackets.
No Wires or Brackets
Worried about poking wires? With Invisalign from NobleCare Orthodontics, that isn’t a concern. The trays have smooth edges that rest against your gums. They can still rub a bit at first, but most people adjust quickly.
Fewer Office Visits
Traditional braces often call for frequent adjustments. Invisalign treatment usually involves scheduled check-ins at our Encino office to confirm you’re on track. But you won’t have to come in nearly as often as you might with braces.
Who Makes a Good Candidate?
Invisalign from NobleCare Orthodontics can correct mild, moderate, and even some more involved alignment issues. Common problems include crowded teeth, gaps, overbite, underbite, and crossbite. Traditional braces might be more effective if you have a very complex case. Dr. Shayesteh will explain your options during your consultation.
Age Considerations
- Teens: Many Encino teens do great with Invisalign. They appreciate the more subtle look, and it’s easier to maintain oral health. Teens will need to wear their aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day, which calls for discipline. If you’re a parent, you might wonder if your teen will stick with it. Dr. Shayesteh can help you and your child figure out if this is a good match.
- Adults: Adults love Invisalign for its low-profile look and comfortable feel. They often have the discipline to keep the trays in place. If you travel or have a job where a glowing smile is key, invisible aligners can make sense.
Tips for Success
- Wear Your Aligners as Instructed: Keeping them in place 20 to 22 hours a day is crucial.
- Remove Them for Meals: You can enjoy your usual favorite foods without worrying about bracket breakage. Just remember to rinse your mouth or brush after eating, then put the trays back in.
- Keep Them Clean: Gently brush your trays with a soft toothbrush. You can also use a clear, mild soap. Don’t use toothpaste on them—some brands can dull or scratch the plastic.
- Monitor Your Teeth: Watch for changes or concerns. If a tray doesn’t fit right or feels off, call our NobleCare Orthodontics team.
Common Questions
Here are some of our Encino neighbors’ most common questions about Invisalign.
1. Do Invisalign Aligners Hurt?
The first few days of a new set can bring slight soreness. It’s similar to the feeling of a fresh brace adjustment. It usually fades within a couple of days. A soft diet for a day or two can help; over-the-counter pain relievers may be a short-term solution.
2. How Long Does Treatment Take?
Treatment time varies based on your situation. Some people finish in six to nine months. Others may need closer to 18 months. Dr. Shayesteh will give you an idea of the timeline during your consultation.
3. What If I Lose a Tray?
It happens. You might misplace it on vacation or wrap it in a napkin at lunch. If you lose a tray, call our NobleCare Orthodontics team right away. You may need to wear your previous set until a replacement arrives. Staying in close contact with the office keeps your plan on track.
4. Will Insurance Cover Invisalign?
Many dental insurance plans cover Invisalign in the same way they cover traditional braces. It’s best to check with your insurance provider for details. Have questions about benefits? Our team can help you sort them out.
5. Can I Whiten My Teeth During Treatment?
Some people like to whiten at the end of treatment. Others slip whitening gel inside the aligners, although you should talk with Dr. Shayesteh first. The main thing is to avoid any product that could damage the plastic or affect your progress.
6. Will People Notice I’m Wearing Aligners?
Most people say aligners are hard to see unless someone is inches away. You might have close friends or family notice if they know what to look for. Otherwise, they blend in better than metal brackets.
How to Make the Most of Your Invisalign Experience
Keep these things in mind to get the most out of your Invisalign treatment from Dr. Sheyesteh.
Follow Instructions
Skipping wear time can slow your progress. Stick to the hours our team recommends for wearing your aligners. If you only wear them 12 hours a day, you risk lengthening treatment or even reversing progress.
Stay on Top of Oral Hygiene
Brush your teeth after meals and snacks. It’ll help you avoid trapped food or plaque buildup inside your trays. It doesn’t take long, and it keeps both your teeth and aligners in shape.
Track Your Aligner Changes
You’ll likely have an app or a schedule telling you when to switch to a new set. Keep track of those dates. If you swap too late or too early, it might throw off your plan.
Ask Questions
At your check-ins, speak up if you’re curious about anything. Dr. Shayesteh is here to help you understand each step. Our team is also ready to help you feel comfortable.
Maintain Good Habits After Treatment
Once you finish with active treatment, you’ll probably have a retainer. Wearing it keeps your teeth from shifting back. Don’t skip it. You worked hard to straighten your teeth, so keeping them in place is worth it.
Ready to Learn More?
If you’re still curious about Invisalign, schedule your free consultation at NobleCare Orthodontics. All it takes is a conversation with Dr. Shayesteh in our Encino office. That visit is where you’ll find out if clear aligners are a good choice for your smile.
