Invisalign in San Francisco, CA

Invisalign aligners are custom-made, clear plastic trays that are worn over the teeth. The aligners fit comfortably and snugly over the teeth, and they gradually move teeth into the desired position. 

Invisalign treatment process

Your Invisalign treatment process is a series of clear, removable aligners that you change approximately every two weeks. Each aligner is individually manufactured with exact calculations to gradually shift your teeth into place.

During your consultation with Dr. Tanega, she will determine if you are a candidate for Invisalign. Your dentist will take x-rays, photos, and impressions of your teeth, which Invisalign uses to create a digital 3-D image of them. From these images, she will map out a precise treatment plan, including the exact movements of your teeth, and tell you the approximate length of treatment.

Then, Dr. Tanega will write a prescription for your custom aligners and sends it to Invisalign. Then, using advanced 3-D printing technology, Invisalign creates your aligners from their patented, flexible SmartTrack material.

Approximately every two weeks, you will begin wearing a new set of aligners, advancing you to the next stage of your treatment. To monitor your progress, you will also have occasional checkups with your dentist, usually only every six weeks or so. For best results and a timely outcome, you should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day throughout your entire treatment.

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

The length of your Invisalign treatment will largely depend on your personal case. However, the average treatment usually lasts between 9 and 15 months. The treatment time can also be affected by your availability and the treatment’s duration.

Advantages of Invisalign treatment

• One of the biggest benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing your teeth. This means that there are no dietary restrictions and that patients can brush and floss their teeth just as they would without the aligners.
• Another benefit of Invisalign is that the aligners are nearly invisible. No one will notice that you are wearing them. 
• Invisalign aligners are also very comfortable. Invisalign aligners are made of a smooth plastic that will not irritate the soft tissues of the mouth.

You may schedule a consultation with our Dentist in San Francisco, CA, by calling us at (650) 794-0203 or by reaching us through an online query. We’re always happy to help.