
Mar
Mid-Valley Dental Care of Northridge, California, offers the revolutionary Invisalign treatment to straighten your teeth and fix your bite without the hassle of traditional braces. With its removable, clear plastic aligners, Invisalign is a convenient and discreet orthodontic system used to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. What’s more, Invisalign aligners are comfortable because they’re made from smooth and thermoplastic material that is gentle on your gums and cheeks.
Invisalign can treat various alignment issues, including mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and bite problems. Additional orthodontic techniques may be required for severe cases, such as large overbites or complex jaw misalignments. Your dentist will evaluate your condition to determine whether Invisalign is suitable for you. Many patients find Invisalign appealing because it offers a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces while delivering noticeable results over time.
For the best results with Invisalign, it’s recommended that you wear your aligners for twenty to twenty-two hours daily. The aligners should be removed only for eating, drinking beverages other than water, or performing oral hygiene. Wearing them consistently ensures that your teeth shift according to the treatment plan, helping you reach your desired smile within the expected time. Not following the recommended wear time can slow your progress and potentially lengthen your treatment period.
Because Invisalign aligners are composed of translucent, BPA-free plastic, they are essentially undetectable while worn. Most people won’t notice them during casual or professional interactions. The discreet nature of Invisalign is a significant reason why patients choose this treatment, particularly adults and teens seeking a subtle approach to orthodontic care. With proper care, the aligners remain clear and unobtrusive throughout treatment.
Invisalign aligners must be removed before you eat or drink, except water. This ensures your aligners do not become stained or damaged. To preserve oral hygiene and avoid cavities, wash your teeth after eating and then put the aligners back in. Removing aligners allows patients to enjoy their favorite foods without the dietary restrictions associated with traditional braces.
Invisalign requires regular visits to your dentist, typically every four to six weeks, to monitor progress. These appointments are usually shorter than traditional orthodontic visits, as they don’t involve adjustments or wire tightening. Your dentist will ensure the treatment is progressing as planned and address any concerns you may have during these visits.
If you lose or damage an aligner, contact your dentist immediately. They will advise whether to use your previous set, move on to the next set, or order a replacement. Acting quickly is essential to prevent disruptions in your treatment plan. Keeping your aligners in a protective case when not in use can help minimize the risk of loss or damage.
Invisalign treatment costs are comparable to traditional braces but can vary based on your case’s complexity and the treatment length. While the upfront cost may be slightly higher in some cases, many patients find Invisalign’s convenience, comfort, and aesthetics to be worth the investment. Dental insurance may cover part of the cost. Many dental offices also offer flexible payment plans to make treatment more affordable.
With more than three decades of education and experience, Dr Terence Lau is a leader in his field. With a Bachelor’s degree in Cell-Molecular Biology from CSUN, he earned his DDS from USC School of Dentistry and received specialized Periodontal Prosthodontics training under experts and pioneers in the field at the University of Washington. He focuses especially on minimally invasive Bio-Aesthetic Implant Surgery, advanced laser dentistry, and more. Dr. Lau is a member of the AGD, ICOI, AO, ACOI, ASO, AAID, AADSM, DOCS, AAFO, and AACFP, and is a nationally recognized lecturer and founder of Bio-Aesthetic Implant and Laser Solutions.
Dr. Casey Lau has over 10 years of experience in comprehensive dental care, with an emphasis on minimally invasive bioesthetic dentistry. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology and his DDS from UCLA. Dr. Lau specializes in occlusion, orthodontics, cosmetic enhancements, and laser dentistry, with expertise in implantology, clear aligner therapy, oral sedation, and much more. He is a member of the AGD, ICOI, AO, ADA, CDA, DOCS, IAO, and AACA. Along with his wife, Dr. Lau co-founded Elims Oral Care, offering eco-conscious oral care products.
Dr. Kayla Lau started out as a dental hygienist before she earned her DDS from the renowned USC School of Dentistry. Specializing in restorative and aesthetic dentistry, she is highly skilled in using neuromodulators like Botox and dermal fillers to improve orofacial pain relief and facial aesthetics. Dr. Lau is passionate about Biomimetic Restorative Dentistry, having trained with pioneers in the field. She is an active member of the AGD, ADA, CDA, SFVDS, ABD, and IAAFA, committed to enhancing smiles and overall oral health.