Invisalign® Teeth Straightening
Invisalign is a teeth-straightening system using medical-grade clear plastic aligners to gently move teeth into their correct positions through a computer-planned schedule. It is an excellent alternative to traditional bracket-and-wire orthodontic treatment and an ideal choice for adults not wanting to endure a mouthful of metal.
Benefits of Invisalign
The benefits of Invisalign aligners are that they can be easily removed for normal eating, drinking, brushing and flossing; and there are no dietary restrictions. The clear aligners are nearly invisible; most people cannot tell you are wearing them. They are also more comfortable than wire braces and since they do not require regular adjustments, you spend less time in the dentist’s office.
The Invisalign Process
Invisalign aligners are custom fit. To begin the process, your dentist will take impressions and images of your teeth as they are now. These are submitted to a lab where 3D dimensional modeling software generates a treatment plan and the series of aligners you will need. You may receive between 15 and 30 aligners for your personalized treatment program. The treatment plan technology allows patients to view their own virtual progression so you can see how your teeth will look at the completion of your treatment.
To work properly, aligners must be worn at least 22 hours per day. Treatment time is often less than traditional braces and can typically last between 12 and 18 months, but may be shorter for minor adjustments.
Each set of aligners is exchanged for the next in the series every two weeks by the patient. And little by little, with each new set of aligners, your teeth will be straightened. Your dentist will check your progress about every six weeks.
Visit the Invisalign website for more information.
Overwhelmingly positive experience
I have been a patient at Dr. Kim’s practice since 2015 and have had an overwhelmingly positive experience to date. Dr. Kim and the staff are courteous, genuine, and professional. After having neglected my teeth for a few years, Dr. Kim provided several fillings and two crowns on my teeth. During the procedure Dr. Kim took numerous photos and extensive documentation. Dr. Kim explained multiple times that this was necessary when insurance companies decided to deny claims. A few months later, as dental providers do, my claim was denied as unnecessary, and they suggested that I should have first attempted a filling. While I am not a dentist, the tooth appeared barely intact after the plaque removal, and I am quite certain that Dr. Kim made the right choice. Helen, one of Dr. Kim’s staff members called me when my claim was denied and informed me that they were challenging the insurance companies decision with additional documentation and a write up. Additionally, I was assured over voicemail that under no circumstance would I pay anything more than I already had paid in the office (which was the amount I would have paid assuming my insurance gave coverage). After 3 or 4 repeated submissions by my provider, the insurance eventually caved and paid the bill. All of this based on two factors: the thoroughness of Dr. Kim’s documentation, and the insistence of Dr. Kim and his staff (Helen in particular) that my insurance provider pay their dues instead of myself. Additionally, at my last visit I mentioned I was getting married in the near future to Helen. She informed me that the practice provides a complimentary teeth bleaching to one of the parties! In summary it is hard to differentiate one dental practice from another, because quite frankly, teeth are teeth and we all want them to just work, it is easy to differentiate good people from predatory people. In a time where dental insurance providers seem quite predatory (at quite a penalty to the wallet!), I am glad to have a strong advocate in my dental provider. Dr. Kim and his practice are good people. I think good people deserve some degree of a shout out and that is why I am writing this review on my Friday night!
