Questions to Ask Your Orthodontist Before Getting Invisalign

Are you considering straightening your teeth with Invisalign? The clear aligners are a fantastic choice for both teens and adults. Still, you need to make sure the treatment and provider are right for you. First, go over questions to ask your orthodontist before getting Invisalign. Then, you’ll know if you should move forward.

How Much Invisalign Experience Does the Orthodontist Have?

Begin by asking the provider about his or her experience level. Experienced orthodontists know how to handle various alignment issues. That includes complicated problems. They can rely on their experience to help you achieve your desired smile.

Do you want to find out how experienced a provider is before the consultation? You can look at the Invisalign provider tier level. Orthodontists start at the Bronze level and work their way up. Eventually, seasoned orthodontists can achieve Diamond status.

Can the Orthodontist Treat the Issue With Invisalign?

It’s important to make sure that Invisalign can resolve your alignment issue. It’s normally used to treat mild to moderate problems. However, it can also address significant issues. Still, not all orthodontists have the skill level to handle complicated cases.

Make this one of the questions to ask your orthodontist before getting Invisalign. Then, you’ll know if you’ll be happy with the results.

How Does the Orthodontist Get Impressions for Invisalign?

Some orthodontists use impression trays for Invisalign. The trays are messy and uncomfortable. Plus, they don’t provide accurate results.

Fortunately, some Invisalign orthodontists use iTero 3D digital teeth scanning technology. The technology is fast, comfortable, and accurate. You can expect a better outcome if you go this route.

Can the Orthodontists Provide an Invisalign Simulation?

Do you want to know what your teeth will look like when the treatment is over? If so, ask if the provider has access to the Invisalign outcome simulator. Orthodontists that use iTero 3D digital teeth scanning technology can simulate your results. Then, you can see what your smile will look like in the future.

How Does the Orthodontist Track Invisalign Progress?

You want to make sure that your treatment plan is progressing as it should. That’s another reason to choose an orthodontist that uses digital scanning technology. This technology can capture 6,000 images per second. Then, it uses those images to track your progress from one appointment to the next.

You can look at the images to see how your smile has improved. Many people say this helps them stay motivated during treatment. After all, it’s easy to keep wearing the aligners when you see that you are getting closer to the ideal smile. That’s a great reason to include this in your list of questions to ask your orthodontist before getting Invisalign.

How Much Does the Orthodontist Charge for Invisalign?

Discussing the cost is important before moving forward. First, your orthodontist will need to examine you and create a treatment plan. Then, he or she can discuss the cost.

Your insurance might cover some of the cost. Also, some orthodontists offer payment plans. This makes it much easier to afford Invisalign.

How Long Is Invisalign Treatment at the Orthodontist?

Treatment typically lasts for 6-18 months. After creating a treatment plan, your orthodontist can tell you how long you’ll need to wear the aligners.

If your issue is mild, you might be aligner-free in as little as six months. Don’t worry if it takes longer, though. The aligners are comfortable and blend in with your teeth. Plus, you can remove them when needed. However, you do need to wear them for at least 20 hours a day.

What Does the Orthodontist Recommend After Invisalign?

You might need to wear retainers after you finish the Invisalign treatment. Often, people wear retainers full time at first and then only at night. By asking upfront, you’ll have a better idea of your course of treatment.

If you need a retainer, you can discuss the cost during your consultation. In addition, you can go over your follow-up schedule when wearing the retainer.

Does the Orthodontist Use Authentic Invisalign Aligners?

Some orthodontists use knock-off brands when treating patients. Unfortunately, these brands pale in comparison to Invisalign. With that in mind, make sure your Traverse City orthodontist uses authentic Invisalign. If not, it’s time to find a new orthodontist.

How Often Will You Need to Visit the Office for Invisalign?

Most orthodontists don’t require regular follow-up appointments for Invisalign. Instead, you’ll receive several trays of aligners. Then, you’ll switch them out based on the schedule.

However, you will need to check in periodically. Thus, this is one of the important questions to ask your orthodontist before getting Invisalign.

Does the Orthodontist Have Invisalign Before-and-After Pics?

It’s a good idea to see before-and-after pictures of previous treatments. Then, you can get a better idea of the expected outcome. Most orthodontists are happy to provide photos. Take some time to look through them, so you’ll know if Invisalign is right for you.

Does the Orthodontist Replace Broken or Lost Aligners?

Hopefully, you’ll never lose or break an aligner. However, it could happen. Thus, add it to the list of questions to ask your orthodontist before getting Invisalign. The orthodontist might have you skip ahead and use the next tray. On the other hand, your orthodontist might replace the aligners. By having a plan in place, you’ll know what to expect if this happens to you.

Does the Orthodontist Offer Invisalign for Adults and Teens?

Are you considering straightening your teeth as a family? If so, it’ll be easier if you go to the same orthodontist. Ask if the provider treats both adults and teens. Even if you don’t need both today, it can be beneficial in the future.

Questions to Ask Your Orthodontist Before Getting Invisalign

Now that you have a list of questions, it’s time to schedule a consultation. Dr. Ronald Lints is available to answer your questions and discuss the treatment options. First, schedule a consultation by calling Dr. Lints Orthodontics at (231) 922-7210. You can then choose to visit our Traverse City, Suttons Bay, or Elk Rapids office.