FAQs on Invisalign Treatment: Straight Answers from Del Mar Dental Arts

Deciding whether to opt for Invisalign treatment involves understanding the process, potential benefits, and what to expect at each step of the teeth-straightening journey. As one of the most popular and sought-after orthodontic treatments, Invisalign has transformed countless smiles and boosted self-confidence for many patients. However, it's essential to have your concerns addressed and questions answered before committing to this investment in your smile.

At Del Mar Dental Arts, we believe in providing our patients with accurate and comprehensive information on Invisalign treatment, empowering informed decision-making. In this article, we will tackle the most frequently asked questions about Invisalign, offering clear and unambiguous answers directly from our team of dental professionals. Whether you're curious about the treatment process, cost, or compatibility with your dental needs, read on to discover all the essential information you seek.

1. What is Invisalign Treatment and How Does it Work?

Invisalign treatment is an innovative orthodontic solution that utilizes a series of custom-made, removable, and virtually invisible aligners to gradually move your teeth into their desired position. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are made from a clear, medical-grade thermoplastic material called SmartTrack®, making them discreet and comfortable to wear.

The process begins with a comprehensive consultation at Del Mar Dental Arts, where our dental professionals will assess your dental needs and determine whether Invisalign treatment is suitable for you. If you're deemed a good candidate, we will take digital impressions of your teeth using state-of-the-art technology to create a 3D digital treatment plan. This plan outlines the movement of your teeth over time and serves as a blueprint for creating your custom aligners.

You'll wear each set of aligners for approximately 1-2 weeks before switching to the next set in the series. Each aligner is designed to exert gentle pressure on specific teeth, gradually shifting them into their proper position. Throughout the treatment, you'll visit Del Mar Dental Arts for regular checkups to monitor your progress and ensure everything is going according to plan.

2. What Dental Issues Can Invisalign Treatment Address?

Invisalign treatment is incredibly versatile and can effectively address a wide range of dental issues. Some of the common orthodontic concerns that can be treated with Invisalign include:

- Crowded teeth: When there isn't enough space in the jaw for all the teeth to fit comfortably, resulting in overlapping or misaligned teeth.

- Gapped teeth: Excessive space between teeth due to abnormal jaw growth or missing teeth.

- Overbite: When the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively, possibly causing bite and gum issues.

- Underbite: When the lower teeth protrude past the upper front teeth, leading to bite problems and potential jaw pain.

- Open bite: When the upper and lower teeth don't meet when biting down, causing difficulty in chewing and potential speech issues.

- Crossbite: A misalignment of the upper and lower teeth, where some teeth sit inside and others outside their opposing counterparts, leading to uneven wear and potential gum issues.

However, it's important to note that the suitability of Invisalign treatment for each patient will depend on the specific dental issue, its severity, and the desired outcomes. During your initial consultation at Del Mar Dental Arts, our dental experts will thoroughly evaluate your dental situation and determine if Invisalign treatment is the best option for you.

3. What is the Duration of Invisalign Treatment?

The duration of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the complexity of your dental issue and your individual treatment plan. On average, adult patients can expect to complete their Invisalign treatment in 12-18 months, while for teenagers, the treatment time may be similar to that of traditional braces.

However, it's important to remember that each patient's treatment time will be unique, and factors such as diligent wear of the aligners, oral hygiene practices, and the nature of the dental issue being treated will all influence the length of the treatment process.

In general, you can expect to visit Del Mar Dental Arts every 6 to 8 weeks for a progress checkup and to receive your next sets of aligners. These regular visits help ensure your treatment is on track and allow our dental professionals to address any concerns or make necessary adjustments.

4. How Much Does Invisalign Treatment Cost?

The cost of Invisalign treatment varies based on several factors, such as the extent of your dental issues and the duration of treatment. In most cases, the cost of Invisalign treatment is comparable to that of traditional braces, ranging from $3,000 to $8,000, with the average treatment cost being around $5,000.

Many dental insurance plans cover Invisalign treatment similarly to traditional braces, which can significantly offset the overall expense. However, it's crucial to review your insurance coverage and clarify what portion will be covered by your insurance plan. Additionally, Del Mar Dental Arts offers a variety of payment options and financing plans to help make Invisalign treatment more affordable for our patients.

5. How to Maintain and Care for Your Invisalign Aligners

Proper maintenance and care of your Invisalign aligners will not only ensure they remain in good condition but also contribute to the success of your treatment. Follow these guidelines for optimal aligner care:

- Wear your aligners for 20-22 hours per day, removing them only to eat, drink (anything other than water), and brush your teeth.

- Clean your aligners daily using a soft-bristle toothbrush and mild toothpaste, or the Invisalign Cleaning System®, to remove any plaque or debris.

- Rinse your aligners each time you remove them and before placing them back in your mouth.

- Brush and floss your teeth after eating or drinking to prevent stains or decay.

- Store your aligners in their protective case when not in use to avoid damage or accidental loss.

- Do not expose your aligners to extreme heat or cold, as it may warp or damage the material.

- Report any problems, like discomfort or breakage, to Del Mar Dental Arts promptly to ensure timely care and treatment adjustments.

Achieve Your Ideal Smile with Invisalign Treatment at Del Mar Dental Arts


Having addressed various aspects of Invisalign treatment, you should now have a clearer understanding of what to expect, how the process works, and the importance of regular care and maintenance during treatment. Armed with this knowledge, you can make a well-informed decision about transforming your smile with Invisalign.

At Del Mar Dental Arts, our team of dental professionals is committed to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams by providing personalized and compassionate care throughout your Invisalign treatment journey. Schedule your consultation today and let our experienced cosmetic dentist in San Diego guide you towards a healthier and more confident smile with Invisalign.