Invisalign in Minnetonka

Invisalign at Tonka Smiles: A Clear Path to a Beautiful Smile

At Tonka Smiles in Minnetonka, we understand that achieving the perfect smile is important, so we offer Invisalign clear aligners as an alternative to traditional braces. Invisalign® provides a discreet, comfortable, and effective way to straighten your teeth without the hassle of metal brackets and wires.

What Is Invisalign®?

Invisalign is a modern alternative to conventional metal braces that uses a series of clear aligners to move your teeth into proper alignment gradually. Often called clear braces, these aligner trays are created using 3D images of your teeth and jawbone, along with Invisalign’s advanced software program. The series of clear braces or aligners fit snugly over your teeth, with each set progressively shifting your teeth a bit closer to their desired positions. Patients typically switch to a new set of Invisalign clear braces every few weeks.

What Can Clear Braces Correct?

Clear braces can improve most mild to moderate orthodontic conditions that metal braces can correct, including underbites, overbites, crossbites, tooth crowding, gaps between teeth, and tooth misalignment. However, if your dental issues are complex or severe, Drs. Phillips and Neitzke may refer you to an orthodontist if they feel that Invisalign is not the best option for you.

Why Choose Invisalign®?

Invisalign aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth and gradually move them into the desired position. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign is virtually invisible, allowing you to straighten your teeth without feeling self-conscious about your appearance. The aligners are removable, making it easier to eat, drink, and maintain oral hygiene compared to conventional braces.

The Invisalign Process

During your Invisalign consultation, we assess whether Invisalign is suitable for achieving your teeth straightening goals. We then take digital images of your teeth, gums, and jawbone and, using Invisalign technology, we create a 3D “preview” of how your smile will look after your treatment is complete. From there, we order your clear braces from the Invisalign lab.

Most patients will receive between 18 and 30 sets of aligner trays. They will need to wear these for 20 to 22 hours every day to see consistent straightening results. The success of Invisalign treatment depends on the patient’s compliance and the degree of correction required. Most patients wear each set of clear braces for a few weeks at a time, then switch to a fresh set of aligners.

Invisalign is designed to be worn all day and night. The only time you remove them is to eat, drink, brush, and floss. If you consistently wear your aligners, your treatment may last between 9 and 18 months. However, your timeframe will vary depending on the amount of correction needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign®

Can teenagers get clear braces?

It depends on the teen. Their jaw should have stopped growing, and the teen must mature enough to take care of their clear braces properly and remove them when eating and drinking. Teens must also remember to wear them for 20 to 22 hours a day, which may be difficult for some. Discuss the options with your child to determine whether Invisalign® is right for your teenager.

Do Invisalign clear braces hurt?

Clear braces are not painful. You may feel a bit of pressure when you switch to a new set of aligners, but this typically fades within a day or two, indicating that Invisalign is working properly.

How do I care for my clear braces?

Brush your Invisalign aligners with a soft-bristle toothbrush and a gentle, non-abrasive toothpaste or liquid hand soap, then rinse with warm or cool water. Never use hot water, as this can warp the braces.

Does dental insurance pay for Invisalign®

Many dental insurance policies that cover traditional braces also cover clear braces up to a specified amount. Check with your insurance carrier to determine your coverage limits and any deductibles.

Will I need to wear a retainer after my Invisalign treatment is complete?

We recommend wearing a retainer at night for a few years after your Invisalign treatment is complete. This will keep your teeth from naturally shifting back to their old positions until the teeth settle into their new positions and the jawbone heals around them.

A beautiful smile is possible with Invisalign® clear braces without anyone knowing a thing. To schedule an appointment to learn more about Invisalign solutions, please get in touch with the Tonka Smiles office at Tonka Smiles Phone Number 952-938-8533