Invisalign Andover, MA
Invisalign® is a popular alternative to conventional metal braces. This orthodontic treatment straightens teeth without the use of brackets or wires. It is a great option for people who want straighter teeth without disrupting their appearance with a visible orthodontic appliance.
We provide Invisalign at Bagnall Family Dentistry in Andover and the surrounding area. Our team can help you with your orthodontic needs. Call us today at (978) 655-2005 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
History of Invisalign
Invisalign is a nearly invisible orthodontic alternative to traditional metal braces. This treatment uses clear plastic trays that apply gentle, consistent pressure to specific parts of teeth to move them into alignment slowly. It is a great option for people who do not want visible metal brackets and wires in their mouths.
Zia Chishti got the idea for Invisalign after realizing that a series of retainers could move teeth just as effectively as metal braces. Chishti and his team created a program to model a patient's current bite and design the series of trays that they would need to achieve a straight smile. Invisalign has made it possible for people who would never choose metal braces, for cosmetic or health reasons, to get the smile they have always wanted.
“Invisalign is a nearly invisible orthodontic alternative to traditional metal braces.”
Invisalign’s Three Steps
The first step to getting Invisalign is by scheduling a consultation with our dentist. Our staff will look at overall oral health and take impressions of the mouth. Next, that impression is sent to Invisalign and used to make aligners unique to the patient's mouth for a custom fit.
Once the aligners have been made, our staff will make sure they fit well, answer any questions, and go over the treatment plan. Patients will be expected to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day to get results. Regular checkups with Bagnall Family Dentistry will make sure treatment stays on track. Our staff will determine how often new aligners are needed.
After the desired results have been achieved, the patient may be expected to wear a retainer to maintain those results. This will prevent teeth from gradually shifting back to their initial position. Our doctor will provide specific instructions on how often a retainer will need to be worn.
“The first step to getting Invisalign is by scheduling a consultation with our dentist.”
The Pros and Cons of Invisalign
Invisalign is not without its pros and cons. Thanks to the fact that they are next-to-invisible, both teens and adults can avoid the discomfort and self-consciousness of traditional metal braces. Many patients also appreciate that they can take Invisalign aligners out to eat, brush and floss, or for social situations.
However, since they are removable, they are more likely to be lost or broken. Patients also need to be careful about what they drink when their aligners are in. Anything but water should be avoided. Liquids can seep into the plastic and stay there until the aligner is removed. This can lead to staining of the aligner and even tooth decay.
“Thanks to the fact that they are next-to-invisible, both teens and adults can avoid the discomfort and self-consciousness that comes with traditional metal braces.”
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Caring For Invisalign
Keeping aligners clean and caring for them properly is a vital part of Invisalign treatment. With the right care, patients can keep their aligners free from discoloration, smell, plaque, and bacteria. People with Invisalign should brush their trays every time they take them out or put them back in.
It is essential for people to not only keep their aligners clean but also their teeth. Use a clear, anti-bacterial soft soap or the Invisalign cleaning system to keep aligners free from plaque and bacteria. Avoid eating or drinking anything that can stain aligners and leave an unpleasant smell. It is best to take out aligners while eating or drinking anything.
“With the right care, patients can keep their aligners free from discoloration, smell, plaque, and bacteria.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What steps are involved with getting Invisalign?
Q. What are the pros and cons of Invisalign?
Q. How long will I have to wear Invisalign aligners?
Q. How should patients care for their Invisalign?
People Also Ask
Q. What age groups use Invisalign?
Q. What are some examples of purely cosmetic procedures?
Q. How should you choose the right treatment and cosmetic dentist?
Q. What are the differences between braces and Invisalign?
Length of Treatment Time
Only a dentist can reasonably predict the length of the Invisalign treatment time. The severity of the condition, how well the patient adheres to the treatment plan, and age are all factors. On average, it takes less than two years to see results. The treatment time for teens is typically a little shorter than adults.
Following all the recommended guidelines will ensure patients do not extend the treatment time. Patients need to switch trays on schedule and talk to our staff if there are any concerns. If the aligners are not worn for the recommended time, the teeth may start to shift back to their original positions.
“Only a dentist can reasonably predict the length of the Invisalign treatment time.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Does Invisalign hurt?
A. Invisalign treatment is not painful, but it can cause teeth to feel sore. When patients switch out their trays, it is normal to experience some discomfort due to the pressure exerted on teeth. This is a sign that the treatment is progressing and teeth are moving into alignment.
Q. How often will I return for appointments during Invisalign treatment?
A. Invisalign treatment can save patients time coming to the office. While other orthodontic treatments typically require patients to return for adjustment appointments about every three or four weeks, Invisalign patients do not need checkups as often. Patients will need to visit our office about once every four to six weeks to ensure that the treatment progresses as planned.
Q. What are Invisalign attachments?
A. Invisalign attachments are small button-like attachments that are temporarily attached to teeth. We place these attachments at specific locations to help the aligners grip teeth as they are moving them into alignment. Not every patient will need Invisalign attachments. Our team will determine whether they are necessary.
Q. Is it normal for my teeth to feel loose after removing my Invisalign aligners?
A. It is normal for patients to feel like their teeth are loose after removing aligners. This is because their teeth are shifting. As aligners gradually move teeth into their proper position, the gums are also re-forming around each tooth.
Q. Will wearing Invisalign aligners affect my speech?
A. Any orthodontic appliance has the potential to affect a person's speech. Invisalign is not likely to cause any speech problems. Patients may notice a slight lisp when speaking, but it should disappear as the tongue gets used to the aligners.
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Invisalign® Terminology
Learn More About Invisalign
For many patients, Invisalign is a practical alternative to traditional braces. If you are interested in finding out whether this treatment is right for you, call Bagnall Family Dentistry in Andover at 978-655-2005 to learn more about whether or not you are a candidate.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
- Invisalign®. How Invisalign Works. 2025
- Invisalign®. Take the Smile Assessment. 2025
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
About our business, license, and website security
- Bagnall Family Dentistry was established in 1986.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Essex County and Middlesex County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Andover, North Andover, Ballardvale, Lawrence, Methuen, Tewksbury, Dracut, Lowell, Groveland, Georgetown, Wilmington, North Reading, and Boxford
- MA (License #DN1856571). View License Information and Specifics
- National Provider Identifier Database (1205109436). View NPI Registry Information
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