A beautiful, confident smile is something everyone deserves, but finding the right orthodontic treatment can be overwhelming. Many general dentists offer limited orthodontic options, often referring patients to specialists for traditional braces or more complex treatments. However, at Nik Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide a unique advantage—Dr. Nik offers both clear aligner orthodontics with Invisalign and conventional braces, allowing us to treat the majority of our patients right here in our office. That means no need to go elsewhere for orthodontic care—we have you covered.
Most general dental offices offer Invisalign or other clear aligner options but lack the ability to provide comprehensive orthodontic care with traditional braces. At Nik Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we specialize in both, allowing us to customize treatment for patients of all ages and orthodontic needs. Our office is run by Dr. Kamran Nikseresht (AKA Dr. Nik), who holds the prestigious fellowship (FAGD) from the Academy of General Dentistry, which only about 6% of dentists have. The fellowship award symbolizes excellence in the dental profession and a commitment to providing exceptional patient care. You can rest assured you are in the best of hands for your orthodontic treatment!
Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten your teeth. Unlike traditional braces, which use metal brackets and wires to shift teeth into place, Invisalign aligners are made from smooth, comfortable plastic that fits snugly over your teeth. Each aligner is custom-made to fit your mouth and applies gentle pressure on your teeth, moving them into the desired position over time.
The treatment process begins with a consultation with your dentist at Nik Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. During this visit, your dentist will assess your oral health, take digital scans or impressions of your teeth, and create a personalized treatment plan. Using advanced 3D imaging technology, your dentist will map out the entire course of your treatment, allowing you to see the projected results before even starting. This customized approach ensures that Invisalign is tailored to your unique needs and goals.
Invisalign offers numerous advantages over traditional braces, making it an attractive option for both teens and adults looking to straighten their teeth. One of the most significant benefits is the discreet nature of the aligners. Since the aligners are made from clear plastic, they are barely noticeable, allowing you to undergo orthodontic treatment without drawing attention to your mouth. This is particularly appealing to adults who may feel self-conscious about wearing braces for an extended period.
Another key benefit of Invisalign is the convenience it offers. Unlike traditional braces, which require frequent adjustments and careful attention to avoid food restrictions, Invisalign aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth. This means you can continue to enjoy your favorite foods without worrying about getting food stuck in your braces. It also makes oral hygiene much easier, as you can brush and floss your teeth as usual without any obstacles.
Invisalign aligners are also known for being more comfortable than traditional braces. Since there are no metal brackets or wires that can irritate your gums and mouth, Invisalign treatment tends to cause less discomfort. The smooth plastic aligners fit snugly and comfortably against your teeth, and you will typically experience only mild pressure as they move your teeth into position.
Additionally, Invisalign offers faster treatment times for many patients. While the exact duration of treatment varies based on individual needs, many people complete their Invisalign treatment in a shorter time frame than they would with traditional braces. This makes it an excellent option for those who want a quicker path to a straighter smile.
Invisalign works by using a series of custom-made, clear aligners that gradually shift your teeth into their ideal positions. The treatment process is relatively straightforward, but it requires discipline and commitment for the best results.
At the beginning of your treatment, your dentist will create a series of aligners that are specifically designed for your mouth. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks, and during that time, they gently move your teeth closer to the desired position. You will wear each set of aligners for approximately 20-22 hours a day, removing them only to eat, drink, and brush your teeth.
Every few weeks, you will visit your dentist to check on your progress and receive a new set of aligners. With each new set, your teeth will gradually shift, bringing you closer to your goal of a perfectly aligned smile. The entire treatment process typically lasts between 12 and 18 months, depending on the severity of your case and the goals of your treatment.
One of the most appealing aspects of Invisalign is that you can see the progress of your treatment as it unfolds. With the use of digital imaging, your dentist will be able to show you a virtual preview of your results before you even begin. This allows you to have a clear understanding of the expected outcome and gives you the confidence to move forward with the treatment.
Invisalign is suitable for a wide range of patients, but it’s essential to assess whether this treatment option is the best fit for you. Ideal candidates for Invisalign are individuals with mild to moderate orthodontic concerns, such as crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, or overbites. It’s especially effective for patients with misaligned teeth that don’t require the complex adjustments that traditional metal braces can provide.
If you are an adult or a teen who wants to correct these issues discreetly without drawing attention to your orthodontic treatment, Invisalign may be a great option. However, for those with more significant bite problems or severe misalignments, traditional braces might still be necessary. Invisalign also works best for individuals who are committed to wearing their aligners as prescribed—typically 20-22 hours a day. Your dentist will evaluate your oral health and determine if Invisalign is right for you based on the specifics of your case.
Additionally, if you have any existing dental issues such as gum disease or cavities, these must be addressed before starting treatment. Since the aligners are removable, your dentist may also recommend Invisalign if you are seeking flexibility for maintaining good oral hygiene throughout the treatment process.
When deciding between Invisalign and traditional braces, it’s important to consider several key factors, including the complexity of your orthodontic needs, lifestyle preferences, and treatment goals. Both options aim to straighten teeth, but the best choice will depend on what you’re hoping to achieve and how much time you're willing to commit to the treatment process.
For many patients, the biggest draw of Invisalign is its aesthetic appeal. The clear aligners are virtually invisible, making them an ideal choice for adults and teens who may feel self-conscious about wearing metal braces. Traditional braces, on the other hand, are highly visible and can affect one’s appearance throughout the treatment. For those who are concerned about how they’ll look with braces, Invisalign is often the preferred option.
Invisalign aligners are known for their comfort, as they are made from smooth, flexible plastic that does not irritate the inside of the mouth. Since they are removable, patients can take them out for meals, allowing them to enjoy their favorite foods without restriction. Brushing and flossing are also easier with Invisalign since you can remove the aligners to clean your teeth. Traditional braces, however, require more maintenance, as food can get stuck in the brackets and wires, making cleaning more difficult.
Additionally, because Invisalign aligners are removable, patients have more flexibility when it comes to their daily activities. Whether it's eating, brushing, or attending a special event, Invisalign aligners can be removed temporarily without interrupting the treatment process. Traditional braces, however, are permanently attached to the teeth for the duration of the treatment, making them less convenient for some people.
In terms of treatment time, Invisalign is generally faster for mild to moderate cases of misalignment. The aligners move teeth gradually, with each new set of aligners designed to achieve specific movements. Many patients complete their Invisalign treatment in about 12 to 18 months, though this can vary depending on the individual case.
Traditional braces may take longer for patients with more severe orthodontic issues. However, because braces provide more precise control over tooth movement, they can sometimes deliver faster results for complicated cases, such as extreme bite issues or large gaps between teeth.
Cost is an important factor when deciding between Invisalign and traditional braces. While the cost of both treatments can vary depending on the complexity of the case and location, Invisalign tends to be slightly more expensive than traditional braces. This is due to the customization and technology involved in creating the aligners. However, many patients find the additional cost worthwhile given the benefits of comfort, convenience, and aesthetics. Some dental insurance plans cover both Invisalign and traditional braces, so it’s important to check with your provider for coverage options.
Invisalign is suitable for both adults and teens. In fact, Invisalign Teen is specifically designed for younger patients, with features that allow for growth and development during treatment. It also includes special blue indicators to help ensure that the aligners are being worn for the recommended amount of time.
Traditional braces are often used for younger children who still have growing teeth and are not yet candidates for Invisalign. In cases where there is significant misalignment or bite problems, traditional braces can provide more precise control over the movement of the teeth, making them a better option for younger patients or those with more complex orthodontic issues.
After the completion of any orthodontic treatment, whether Invisalign or traditional braces, long-term maintenance is required to ensure the results are maintained. Both treatments require the use of retainers after the braces or aligners are removed. Invisalign users typically transition to a retainer that helps keep the teeth in place, while those who have worn traditional braces may need a similar type of retainer.
The key difference lies in the maintenance of aligners versus braces during treatment. Braces require periodic tightening, and there is a higher chance of adjustments being made throughout the process. Invisalign’s main “maintenance” consists of changing to the next set of aligners every two weeks, with fewer in-office visits compared to traditional braces.
Because Dr. Nik can treat patients with both Invisalign and traditional wire braces, he can evaluate your unique dental needs and recommend the best treatment for your case. Unlike other general dentists who may only offer Invisalign, our office provides the flexibility to choose the right orthodontic solution without limitations.
If you’re looking for a dental office that can handle all your orthodontic needs—from clear aligners to full braces—Nik Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is the place for you. Schedule a consultation today and let us help you achieve the straight, confident smile you deserve—all in one convenient location.