Menu
Book Online New Patient Forms
619.435.6227

Invisalign®

For adults and teenagers alike, Invisalign® can be a cutting-edge solution for straightening teeth discreetly and effectively. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign® uses clear, custom-made aligners designed to more comfortably adjust your smile with minimal disruption to daily life. This treatment offers a virtually invisible way to enhance your dental aesthetics.  

At Coronado Dental Group, cosmetic dentist Jimmy Wu, DDS is dedicated to transforming smiles with the help of Invisalign®. With this popular orthodontic treatment, Dr. Wu crafts precise treatments tailored to each patient’s needs. In addition to Invisalign®, Dr. Wu offers a range of cosmetic dentistry services, including porcelain veneers, dental crowns, and more. His commitment to excellence contributes to his patients achieving a smile that not only looks great, but feels great, too. 

Explore Topics On This Page:

Who Is a Candidate for Invisalign®?

Candidates for Invisalign® are typically individuals with mild to moderate orthodontic concerns, such as crooked teeth, gaps, crowding, or bite irregularities. Ideal candidates are generally teens and adults who prefer a more discreet treatment option, as Invisalign® aligners are nearly invisible while they are on the teeth. Patients should be committed to wearing the custom aligners for most of each day (at least 20-22 hours) and following the treatment protocol as directed. Invisalign® may be less suitable for severe orthodontic conditions or more complex dental issues, which might require traditional braces for effective treatment. Regular dental visits are necessary to monitor progress and ensure optimal results.

Invisalign® vs. Braces

While Invisalign® and traditional metal braces remain some of the most common orthodontic solutions, there are some key differences between the two:  

Invisalign® 

  • Aesthetics: Nearly invisible clear aligners that are discreet and less detectable to others. 
  • Comfort: Smooth, custom-fit plastic reduces irritation to the gums and cheeks. 
  • Convenience: Aligners are removable for eating, brushing, and flossing. 
  • Duration: Typically quicker treatment for mild to moderate orthodontic cases. 
  • Maintenance: Easier daily cleaning.  

Braces 

  • Visibility: Usually consisting of metal or ceramic brackets and wires that are more noticeable than Invisalign® trays. 
  • Discomfort: Wires and brackets can cause irritation in the mouth. 
  • Restrictions: Dietary restrictions to avoid damaging braces. 
  • Duration: Often require a more lengthy treatment time that is effective for more severe cases. 
  • Maintenance: More challenging hygiene routine that typically necessitates special tools for cleaning around brackets and wires. 

What Can I Expect from Invisalign® Treatment?

Invisalign® treatment involves wearing a series of clear and custom-fitted aligners that progressively shift your teeth into the desired position. Each set of aligners is often worn for one to two weeks before it is switched out for the next in the series, which is slightly modified from the one before it in order to produce gradual orthodontic correction. Aligners should be worn for roughly 20 to 22 hours a day and should only be removed to eat, drink anything other than water, and maintain a regular oral hygiene routine. Regular check-ups are essential for monitoring progress.

How Long Does Invisalign® Take?

The duration of Invisalign® treatment can vary based on the complexity of the orthodontic issues being corrected, but it typically ranges from six months to a year and a half. The exact timeline is personalized and estimated during the initial consultation. Some of the factors that can influence the length of treatment include: 

  • The severity of orthodontic concerns  
  • Your adherence to wearing the aligners consistently throughout the day 
  • How well your teeth respond to the aligners 
  • Whether you consistently change out your aligners according to the timetable as directed  

Are you curious about Invisalign® treatment? If you have additional questions, or if you are ready to schedule a consultation with Dr. Wu, please contact Coronado Dental Group today!