Invisalign® Clear Aligners in Chicago, IL
Chicago Invisalign Treatment: Achieve a Straighter Smile Discreetly
Traditional orthodontic options, such as metal braces, are known for their effectiveness, but they often come with the drawbacks of being unattractive and uncomfortable. Fortunately, advancements in dental technology have given birth to transparent teeth aligners known as the Invisalign® system.
At Contos Smile Center, Dr. Peter Contos, our esteemed dentist in Chicago, IL, is delighted to offer this contemporary orthodontic solution to patients of all ages. Call (773) 973-0531 to learn more.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a cutting-edge orthodontic treatment system that utilizes a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten your teeth. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign offers a virtually invisible approach to achieving a straighter smile. The aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth precisely and are designed to gently shift them into the desired position over time.
Invisalign® Options and Attachments
At Contos Smile Center, we provide various Invisalign options and attachments to cater to diverse orthodontic needs, including:
- Invisalign Full: Ideal for treating complex bite cases, with aligners for both top and bottom teeth.
- Invisalign Lite: Suitable when minimal tooth movement is required for the final straightening.
- Invisalign i7: Targeting single or a few teeth that stand out in an otherwise orderly mouth.
- Invisalign Teen: Tailored for younger patients and features a blue dot indicator to monitor compliance.
- Invisalign Express: A faster, cost-effective choice for minor crowding or spacing issues, suitable for individuals who have had prior orthodontic correction.
- Invisalign with Mandibular Advancement: Addresses overbites while straightening teeth.
Benefits of Invisalign Orthodontics
Invisalign boasts numerous advantages compared to traditional braces:
- Discreet Appearance: The clear design of the aligners makes them nearly undetectable, allowing you to undergo orthodontic treatment without compromising aesthetics.
- Enhanced Comfort: Custom-crafted for a comfortable fit, Invisalign eliminates the irritation and discomfort often associated with metal brackets and wires.
- Improved Oral Hygiene: The removable nature of the aligners makes flossing and brushing your teeth a breeze, contributing to better oral health.
- Dietary Freedom: Unlike braces with food restrictions, Invisalign allows you to enjoy all your favorite foods without limitations – simply remove the aligners before eating.
- Potentially Faster Treatment: In some cases, Invisalign can straighten teeth up to twice as fast as traditional braces.
- Convenience and Flexibility: The removable nature of the aligners allows for easy cleaning and provides flexibility for special occasions.
What Can Invisalign Aligners Correct?
Invisalign is a versatile treatment option that can address a wide range of orthodontic concerns, including:
- Mild to Moderate Crowding: If your teeth are slightly overlapping or crowded, Invisalign can create more space for proper alignment.
- Spacing Issues: Invisalign can close gaps between your teeth for a more uniform smile.
- Overbites, Underbites, and Crossbites: Invisalign can correct misalignment issues where your upper or lower jaw sits improperly in relation to the other.
- Open Bites: In some cases, Invisalign can help close a gap between your upper and lower front teeth when they don’t touch naturally.
How Do Invisalign Clear Aligners Work?
The Invisalign treatment process involves a series of clear, custom-made aligners that gradually shift your teeth into their ideal positions. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
- Initial Consultation: You’ll meet with a dentist or orthodontist to discuss your goals and determine if Invisalign suits your needs.
- Digital Impressions & Treatment Plan: Advanced digital technology is used to create a 3D model of your teeth. This allows the dentist to develop a personalized treatment plan outlining the movements needed to achieve your desired outcome.
- Aligner Fabrication: A series of clear aligners are custom-made based on the treatment plan. You’ll receive a new set of aligners every few weeks to wear for 20 to 22 hours a day, only removing them for eating and cleaning.
- Regular Monitoring: Regular check-up appointments with your dentist or orthodontist are scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure the aligners are working effectively.
- Retainers: After completing the Invisalign treatment, you’ll likely need to wear retainers to maintain your new, straighter smile.
Caring for Invisalign Trays
Maintaining proper hygiene for your Invisalign trays is crucial to ensure a successful and pleasant treatment experience. Here’s a guide to caring for your Invisalign trays and wearing them effectively:
- Rinse Regularly: Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water whenever you remove them for eating or brushing your teeth. This helps remove food particles and prevents bacteria buildup.
- Brush Gently: Once a day, brush your aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, antibacterial hand soap. Avoid harsh chemicals or toothpaste, which can damage the aligners.
- Consider Cleaning Solutions: In addition to brushing, you can soak your aligners in a cleaning solution specifically designed for Invisalign. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper soaking time and dilution.
Financing Invisalign Treatment
At Contos Smile Center, we understand that undergoing orthodontic treatment like Invisalign is an investment in your smile and health. We’re committed to making this investment accessible by offering financing options for patients in Chicago, Evanston, and Skokie.
Maximize Your Insurance Benefits
We work directly with major insurance providers, including UHC, Delta Premier, Guardian, Humana, Aflac, Aetna, and Principal. Our experienced team will help you navigate your insurance coverage and maximize your reimbursement for Invisalign treatment.
Flexible Payment Plans
For patients without insurance or with limited coverage, we offer flexible payment plans tailored to your individual needs and budget. We accept all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express) for your convenience.
Outside Financing Options
If you’re considering a larger treatment plan, we recommend exploring outside financing options like CareCredit and Lending Club. These programs offer extended payment plans with low monthly installments to fit your budget. You can review details and pre-register online for these plans before your appointment.
Dedicated to Your Smile Journey
Our team is dedicated to working with you to achieve your oral health goals and create a beautiful smile you can be proud of. We are happy to answer any questions about financing your Invisalign treatment. Contact us today at (773) 973-0531 to speak with our financial coordinator.
Frequently Asked Questions
▼Is Invisalign better than metal braces?
Invisalign offers a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional metal braces. It’s often preferred for its nearly invisible appearance, easy maintenance, and shorter treatment time, making it ideal for many. Consult with an orthodontic specialist to determine which option is best for you.
▼Does Invisalign treatment hurt?
Invisalign treatment can cause some discomfort but it’s usually not as severe as the tightening sensation experienced with braces. You might feel some pressure or achiness as your teeth start to move, but this typically subsides within a few days.
▼How long does treatment with Invisalign take?
Treatment time with Invisalign varies depending on your individual needs. In some cases, it can straighten teeth up to twice as fast as traditional braces (around 12 months), but for complex cases, it can take longer. A consultation with an orthodontist will give you a more accurate estimate.
▼What’s the best age to undergo treatment with Invisalign?
Generally, Invisalign is suitable for teens and adults. While there’s no technical age limit for Invisalign, younger children might not be responsible enough to wear the aligners consistently. Traditional braces might be a better option in those cases.
Achieve the Smile of Your Dreams with Invisalign in Chicago
Don’t let metal braces hold you back from a confident smile. Contact Contos Smile Center today at (773) 973-0531 or schedule a consultation online to see if Invisalign is right for you. We welcome patients from Oak Park, Cicero, and Lincolnwood, IL.
Our Vision
We are dedicated to providing the highest level of service and quality to our patient community by cultivating strong relationships, communicating thoughtful treatment solutions, and providing an enjoyable atmosphere, we can empower our patients to take ownership of their oral health.
We are committed to researching and offering state-of-the-art dental solutions in order to deliver the most advanced treatment options to our patients.
