The Clear, Comfortable, and Convenient Alternative to Braces
Dr. Bates is an expert in orthodontic treatment with Invisalign. He will even use Invisalign for some of the most complex orthodontic cases, such as surgical cases. Completing your orthodontic treatment with Invisalign clear aligners is a comfortable, convenient, and aesthetic alternative to traditional braces. With Dr. Bates expertise in treating patients with Invisalign, you can be confident that your treatment outcome will be just as good as it would be with braces. Treatment with Invisalign clear aligners typically requires fewer in-office visits as well!
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a series of clear, removable, and comfortable aligners that work to apply gentle forces that straighten your teeth, similar to braces. They’re made from a smooth, flexible, BPA-free plastic material.
Invisalign clear aligners are removable so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment, plus brushing and flossing are less of a hassle. Most patients also report that they are more comfortable than braces!
Invisalign clear aligners are custom-made for each individual patient based on a digital scan of your teeth. This scan enables Dr. Bates to digitally plan your treatment with ultimate precision, achieving the same stunning results as he would with traditional braces, and in many cases, faster than with traditional braces!
Why Invisalign?
Aesthetic
Invisalign clear aligners are clear of course! Most people won’t even know that you’re going through treatment.
Comfortable
There are no brackets or wires to poke you, just a smooth, removable plastic aligner that you can remove when you eat! Additionally, due to more consistent and gentle force levels, you can say goodbye to that “just got my braces tightened” feeling!
Better Oral Hygiene
One of the biggest benefits of clear aligners is that you can remove them to better clean your teeth!
Fewer Office Visits
With Invisalign treatment, you will not have to come in for visits as frequently! Dr. Bates typically sees his Invisalign patients every 10-12 weeks.
Fewer Emergency Visits
No more broken brackets or poking wires to ruin your weekend plans!
Invisalign FAQs
I was told I wasn’t a candidate for Invisalign, does that mean I need braces instead?
Invisalign clear aligners are simply another tool that orthodontists use to apply forces to your teeth in a coordinated fashion in order to accomplish desired tooth movements. A tool is only as good as the person using it! Dr. Bates treats many cases with Invisalign that others may only consider treating with braces. There are specific instances where he prefers braces, but generally he is able to use Invisalign on even the most complex orthodontic cases.
How often do I need to wear my Invisalign clear aligners?
You will be instructed to wear your aligners 22 hours/day. This means full-time, except for when you need to take them out to eat, drink, brush, or floss.
Can I eat and drink while wearing Invisalign?
We recommend that you remove your clear aligners to eat or drink anything other than water. This prevents staining of your aligners and also helps ensure no sugars or foods are being held against your teeth by the aligners. It’s also recommended to brush your teeth, or at least rinse with water, prior to reinserting your aligners.
Will wearing Invisalign clear aligners affect my speech?
Like anything new, there is a short period of time necessary for your lips, tongue, and cheeks to adapt. Any effects on speech typically only last a couple of days. The more you speak with your aligners, the quicker you’ll adapt.
Is there any discomfort associated with Invisalign?
With each new aligner, there will be pressure on your teeth and you’ll likely feel a low-grade soreness for a day or two. This is simply evidence that your teeth are moving!
Can I smoke while wearing Invisalign clear aligners?
We generally advise against smoking with your aligners in, as the smoke can discolor them. The heat associated with smoking can also distort your aligners.
How do I clean my aligners?
Simple! A toothbrush and water is all you need. A gentle scrub prior to allowing your saliva to dry on them will keep them nice and clear. We will also provide cleaning tablets with your aligners if you prefer that method.
How often do I need to be seen in-office during my treatment?
Generally, Dr. Bates sees his Invisalign patients at his Lynchburg office every 10-12 weeks.
Do I need to wear retainers after my Invisalign treatment is complete?
YES! As with all orthodontic treatment results, the tooth positions must be maintained with retainers. Good news though, you’ll already be a pro at wearing removable retainers after finishing your orthodontic treatment with Invisalign.
How long will my treatment with Invisalign take?
The length of orthodontic treatment is related to the complexity of movements required and your specific initial presentation. For most patients however, treatment with clear aligners will be shorter than with braces. The average length of comprehensive treatment with Invisalign clear aligners in our office is between 14 -18 months!
Does Invisalign work for kids?
YES! Dr. Bates loves to treat children and teens with Invisalign clear aligners. Invisalign clear aligners are actually Dr. Bates preferred option for Phase 1 treatment (early orthodontic intervention). He often says that children and teens are some of his most compliant patients when it comes to wearing their aligners!
Is Invisalign more expensive than braces?
NO! Our fees for treatment with clear aligners are the exact same as they are with braces! Treatment fee is dependent upon several factors specific to your unique diagnosis and treatment plan. You’ll be presented with an exact fee at your initial consultation and there are no hidden fees thereafter!
Before & Afters
