Invisalign/Clear Aligners in Chicago

How Invisalign Works

The Invisalign clear aligner system uses custom-made trays that are designed for comfort and accuracy. When they are worn 20-22 hours each day, the aligners apply just enough pressure to your teeth so that they continue to move in the right direction. Depending on the severity of your overcrowding, spacial gaps, or bite misalignment, you will receive a certain number of aligners that you will wear throughout treatment. Although every case is different, the average timeframe for completion is 12-18 months.

Who Can Invisalign Help?

If you are interested in straightening your teeth with Invisalign, then schedule a consultation with Dr. Mahler. Once he knows more about your case, including how mild or severe your malocclusion is, he can determine if you’re a good candidate for clear aligners. If your appointment is a few days or weeks away, you can also read on; we’re sharing some helpful information on who Invisalign can help right here!

Crowded Teeth

Patients often want to address overcrowding to improve the appearance of their smiles. The reality is that this common orthodontic problem can also increase your risk of oral health issues, like periodontal disease, because the unique crevices between your teeth are hard to clean. If you’re a candidate for Invisalign, then we can move your teeth into proper alignment with clear aligners, improving the look, health, and function of your smile without any metal at all!

Gaps Between Teeth

Spaces between your teeth can also harbor food particles, plaque, and other debris, increasing your risk of common oral health problems in the process. That’s why we strongly recommend scheduling a consultation with us to discuss Invisalign sooner rather than later! If we determine that you’re a good candidate for clear aligner treatment, then we will gently close the gaps in your smile, giving you the healthy, gorgeous grin you deserve.

Overbite

For decades, traditional braces have been used to address overbites. While this orthodontic treatment continues to be safe, reliable, and effective, it isn’t aesthetically-pleasing. The good news is that Invisalign can correct several common bite problems, including overbites! So, if your upper teeth protrude beyond your lower ones significantly, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with us to see if you’re a candidate for metal-free braces.

Underbite

Good news: more mild cases can often be fixed with Invisalign! The first step is scheduling an appointment with us so we can determine if you’re a candidate. If the answer is “yes,” then we will create a series of aligners with impressions of your teeth. If needed, we will add other orthodontic accessories to your treatment plan, like rubber bands. That way, the final result is a healthy bite, aligned teeth, and a gorgeous smile.

Crossbite

Crossbites are particularly concerning because they can lead to dental damage, chronic jaw pain, and even TMJ dysfunction. So, if your upper and lower jaw aren’t aligned properly, don’t wait – explore your orthodontic treatment options, like Invisalign, now! That way, we can move your teeth and bite into proper alignment, improving your oral health and overall quality of life in the process.

Open Bite

If you can’t bite down completely because there is space in the front or back of your mouth, then you likely have an open bite. Not only can this common orthodontic problem negatively impact your chewing patterns, but it can also take a toll on your self-esteem, oral health, and ability to enunciate clearly. The good news is that Invisalign may be a solution, allowing us to straighten your teeth and align your bite without any metal!

The Benefits of Invisalign

During your consultation with Dr. Mahler, he will go over the various benefits that come with Invisalign. Different from traditional braces, these clear aligners:

• Are more flexible, allowing you to easily remove them to eat, drink, and clean
• Are virtually invisible, so you do not have to worry about others commenting on your orthodontic treatment
• Are easy to maintain, only requiring a soft-bristled toothbrush, clear soap, and lukewarm water
• Require fewer follow-up appointments with our dental team
• Are more comfortable to wear with less irritation to your gums and other soft tissues
• Often achieve results in less time than with traditional metal braces

Understanding the Cost of Invisalign

Investing in your smile is one of the best decisions you can make, and Invisalign offers many exceptional benefits! At Smile 312 Chicago's Premier Dentist, we believe in transparency, so you’ll always know what to expect when it comes to the cost of your treatment. If you’re ready to straighten your smile, read more below. You’ll get a breakdown of what goes into the cost of Invisalign treatment and find ways to make it a more affordable option for you!

Factors that Affect the Cost of Invisalign

The cost of Invisalign depends on several factors, including:

• Pre-Treatment Needs: If you need other treatments like extractions before starting Invisalign, this should be factored into the overall cost.
• Complexity of Treatment: More significant alignment issues require more resources to treat properly, increasing the price.
• Treatment Compliance: Shorter treatment times will lower the overall cost of your treatment. So, doing your best to comply with wear times and other instructions will help keep the price down.

At our Chicago office, we’ll provide a detailed estimate of your treatment plan during your consultation so there are no surprises! We like to keep our pricing as clear as our aligners.

Invisalign vs. Mail-In Aligners: Which Costs More?

While mail-in aligners are marketed as a low-cost alternative, there are several important distinctions between them that will make a big difference in your investment. For example:

• Professional Supervision: At our practice, your Invisalign treatment will be overseen by Mahler, ensuring precision and addressing issues as they arise. Mail-in aligners don’t offer in-person adjustments or checkups!
• Custom Fit: Invisalign uses 3D scans to create trays that fit your teeth perfectly, improving comfort and effectiveness. Meanwhile, mail-in aligners rely on self-impressions, which may be less accurate.
• Safety and Results: With Invisalign, you’re guaranteed safe and predictable results. If you go with a mail-in option, results can vary, and you may experience poor alignment or even improper tooth movements that damage your smile!

In the long run, Invisalign’s benefits outweigh the slightly higher initial cost, offering peace of mind and a more professional experience!

Does Dental Insurance Cover Invisalign?

Some dental insurance policies may partially cover Invisalign, treating it as an orthodontic procedure. With these plans, coverage typically ranges from $1,000–$3,000, depending on your policy. At Smile 312 Chicago's Premier Dentist, we’ll help you check your insurance benefits to maximize your savings. Even if your plan doesn’t cover Invisalign, we’ll explore other ways to make treatment more affordable for you!

Options for Making Invisalign Affordable

Our team is committed to making Invisalign accessible for all our patients. In addition to in-network with Delta Dental, Cigna, and BlueCross BlueShield, we offer CareCredit financing as a flexible payment solution for patients without insurance.

CareCredit allows you to break your Invisalign costs into manageable monthly payments, often with little to no interest! During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed cost breakdown and explain how this service could work for you. Your dream smile is closer than you think—schedule your appointment today to get started!