Your teeth are more important to your overall appearance than you might realize, and straightening them is an important step in creating a healthier, more confident smile. Be it traditional braces or modern day options such as clear aligner in Santa Monica, asking the right questions during your initial consultation will make all the difference. This way you will be sure to feel confident in your start to orthodontics by knowing your options, timeline, cost and results. Here’s what you need to ask the dentist about Invisalign before starting, if you’re thinking about it in Santa Monica.

Am I a Suitable Candidate for Invisalign or Braces?

Every orthodontic case is unique. Invisalign is ideal for a percentage of people with mild to moderate misalignment, however, you may be better off with traditional braces if you have a more complex issue. Have your dentist examine your bite, alignment and overall oral health to see what’s best for you.

How Long Will Treatment Take?

How long it takes to straighten your teeth depends on your specific needs. Certain patients can achieve their results in six months, and others may require 12–24 months or longer. Remember to ask your dentist how long the treatment period would take as it can vary depending on the case.

What Are the Costs and Payment Plans Available?

When selecting an orthodontic treatment, cost is often a determining factor. Request a complete accounting of all treatment costs, including consultations, retainers and follow-up visits. Most clinics, such as Ocean Park Orthodontics in Santa Monica, also have numerous payment options and accept a range of insurance plans.

How Many Days in the Office Will I Have to Work?

Dental visits may be less frequent with Invisalign than with braces, but confirm how often you’ll need inspections or repositioning of aligners. This is especially critical if dealing with a busy schedule, or if you are managing orthodontic treatment for a child.

How Will Treatment Affect My Daily Life?

It’s important to know what effect your treatment will have on your daily routine. Inquire about dietary restrictions, oral hygiene and lifestyle changes. So, for you guys using Invisalign, you must know when you need to wear the aligners every day and for how long. For optimal results, most patients should wear the aligners around 20–22 hours per day.

What Happens When Treatment Is Over?

If not properly maintained, straight teeth can move over time. Inquire about retainers, how long you’ll need to wear them and whether they’re included in the overall treatment price. Care in the long term is as important as the treatment itself.

Why Get Invisalign in Santa Monica?

If you are local to the area, it is worth inquiring about the benefits of choosing Invisalign at a Santa Monica clinic, such as Ocean Park Orthodontics. Their dedication to patient education, minimize patient discomfort, and up-to-date technology allows an Invisalign experience that is seamless and successful.

Conclusion:

Establishing the right foundation for a successful orthodontic experience starts from the right kind of questions. No matter if you are inclined toward braces or considering the more modern option of Invisalign in Santa Monica, understanding the possibilities you have available can ensure you will receive the smile you have always wanted—with assurance and understanding.

Ryan James is the author of this article. For more details about Adult Santa Monica dental braces please visit our website: oceanparkorthodontics.com