Invisalign Treatment at Walker & Wright Orthodontics
Invisalign clear aligners offer a modern alternative to conventional braces, utilizing individually customized, clear trays to gently align the teeth. They are almost invisible, removable, and comfortable. At Walker & Wright Orthodontics, we provide Invisalign for teens and adults in Freeport IL and Monroe WI who want straighter teeth without the appearance of traditional braces.
With no metal bits, aligners sidestep torture from wires and brackets and, in many cases, feel more comfortable than traditional braces. They can be worn throughout the day and at night but are removable to eat, drink, and brush for a regular diet and dental hygiene while being treated.
Invisalign Treatment Services
At Walker & Wright Orthodontics, our Invisalign treatment’s key steps include:
- Free initial consultation: Start with a complimentary consultation, where the orthodontist evaluates your smile, discusses your goals, and determines the suitability of Invisalign. We explain treatment steps and answer questions before proceeding.
- Digital imaging and records: We use a Carestream CBCT system to quickly capture digital records of your teeth and jaws, generating a precise 3D model in under a minute for comfort. These records form the basis of your custom Invisalign plan.
- Custom aligner design and fabrication: Using digital records, we design a series of custom aligners to incrementally move your teeth along a planned path. The treatment plan is mapped out in software to achieve the desired alignment.
- Wearing the aligners and treatment duration: You wear each aligner for about 1–2 weeks before switching to the next. Treatment time varies with complexity, averaging 22 months. Most patients see significant improvements within this timeframe.
- Regular progress monitoring: You'll return for check-ups every 4–8 weeks to ensure teeth are moving as planned and to receive the next aligners. This monitoring keeps treatment on schedule and allows quick adjustments if necessary.
- Post-treatment retention: After finishing Invisalign, you'll need retainers to keep your teeth in position. We provide clear Essix retainers and direct you to wear them as instructed. Retainers prevent shifting and stabilize results, typically worn at night indefinitely for lifelong retention.
Technology and Unique Features
Walker & Wright Orthodontics employs advanced technology throughout Invisalign treatment:
- Digital 3D scanning and X-rays
We use 3D imaging (Carestream CBCT) for diagnostics and planning, creating a digital model of the patient’s teeth, jaw, and surrounding anatomy in under a minute. High-quality images enable precise treatment planning, visualizing tooth movements, and designing accurate aligners. - Computerized treatment planning
3D scans and orthodontic records allow software to simulate the entire Invisalign process, ensuring each aligner shapes teeth step-by-step toward the desired outcome for predictable, efficient treatment.
The scanning process is quick and comfortable. Patients sit in an open machine, reducing radiation exposure compared to traditional CT scans. Smooth plastic aligners cause less irritation than braces.
Invisalign vs Other Orthodontic Options
Invisalign is an orthodontic option. Here are the key factors for Invisalign versus traditional braces (metal, ceramic, or lingual):
Appearance:
- Clear aligners are nearly invisible, making them aesthetic.
- Metal braces have noticeable brackets and wires, but modern ones are sleeker.
- Ceramic braces use tooth-colored brackets to be less visible than metal.
- Lingual braces are hidden behind teeth.
Comfort:
- Aligners are comfortable due to no metal edges. Removable aligners generally cause fewer irritations than fixed braces.
- Modern metal braces are more comfortable than in the past, but minor soreness may occur with adjustments.
- Ceramic brackets can be bulkier and may break if bitten hard.
Maintenance:
- Invisalign trays are removable for eating, brushing, and flossing, making dental hygiene easier.
- Fixed braces require careful cleaning around brackets and using special tools to clean between wires. Food restrictions apply to avoid breaking brackets.
Effectiveness:
- All methods effectively straighten teeth when used properly. Invisalign works well for most teens and adults.
- Traditional braces correct severe misalignments, while Invisalign is effective for common issues (gaps, crowding, moderate bite problems). For complex cases, fixed braces may be recommended.
Age suitability:
- Invisalign is for teens and adults who are comfortable wearing their aligners for 20-22 hours a day. Younger kids who still have baby teeth might not be good candidates for aligners.
- Older teens and adults often prefer ceramic braces for aesthetic reasons.
- Lingual braces are suitable for any age patient seeking a hidden option, depending on their bite and oral hygiene.
In conclusion, clear, removable Invisalign aligners allow for better aesthetics and care over metal or ceramic braces. Aligners are more comfortable and less obtrusive to hygiene.
Meet the Experts
- Dr. Walker, DDS, MS
Dr. Walker graduated with a DDS in 1982 and a certificate of orthodontics in 1984 from UIC and is board certified in orthodontics. In 1987, he received a Master of Science in Orthodontics from the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). He employs today's newest advancements in technology, such as 3-D diagnostic imaging and clear aligners, to provide the most comfortable treatment and best results for patients.
- Dr. Wright, DMD, MS
Dr. Wright received a DMD from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2018 and was, until 2022, a dental officer in the United States Navy. He served in the armed forces before receiving his M.S. in Orthodontics from the University of Iowa College of Dentistry in 2022. As a young doctor, he combines modern education with a patient-first philosophy and has joined our staff to continue our rich heritage of providing superior orthodontic services.
Insurance and Payment Options
Walker & Wright Orthodontics makes financing treatment straightforward:
- Insurance: We are in network with most dental insurance plans. Our admin team will process this with your provider to confirm coverage and submit any claims as required for you. Feel free to ask us about insurance during your consultation.
- Flexible Financing: We accept credit card payments and collaborate with reputable healthcare financing companies to create a customized payment plan tailored to your needs. We also take HSA/FSA for qualifying patients.
Schedule Your Invisalign Appointment Today
Ready to get started? Walker & Wright Orthodontics serves patients in Freeport IL and Monroe WI. Please contact either office to schedule your free Invisalign consultation.
