Invisalign® in Meridian, ID

Dr. Jason Howell’s patients can gain straighter smiles more easily, comfortably and with virtual invisibility when they use Invisalign® and Invisalign Teen. We provide these clear aligners at Howell Orthodontics as some of the latest orthodontic treatments in the field. Please call our orthodontist to see if you are a good candidate for Invisalign in Meridian and Mountain View, Idaho.

Benefits of Invisalign®

Invisalign® aligners are a great choice for patients who are searching for a more discreet orthodontic treatment option for straightening their smile. Rather than using metal brackets and wires like traditional braces, the Invisalign system uses a series of custom-made, computer-generated plastic aligners to straighten teeth. Each set of aligners is designed to make small changes to the alignment of the teeth. As you switch sets of aligners about every two weeks, your teeth will gradually and gently move to their proper positions. You will also visit our office on a regular basis during treatment to make certain that your smile is progressing as planned.

Which Orthodontic Issues Can Invisalign Treat?

In general, Invisalign aligners can be used to treat the same orthodontic issues that are normally treated with braces. Our dentist may recommend Invisalign treatment to correct:

Crowded teeth
Crooked teeth
Gapped and spaced teeth
Certain problems with the bite, such as an overbite, open bite, underbite or crossbite

During your initial visit, we will determine whether you are a good candidate for Invisalign treatment. This treatment is often a good choice for adult patients and others who are interested in a virtually invisible orthodontic treatment. In addition to being discreet, Invisalign aligners are very comfortable because they are custom made from smooth, thin plastic. The aligners are removable as well, which allows you to easily remove them as needed to eat, brush and floss. We welcome you to call our offices in Meridian, ID or Mountain View, ID to schedule an Invisalign consultation!

Invisalign FAQs

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a series of clear aligners that are custom-made for each patient’s unique mouth shape and dental needs. The aligners are worn every day with patients having total control over their treatment. As your teeth are gradually moved into alignment, new aligners are given to you until you reach the completion of the treatment.

Am I a good candidate for Invisalign?

Invisalign is a great option for many people. We do not recommend them for patients under the age of 14, as it takes a higher level of maturity and self-discipline to wear the aligners for 22 hours per day and to remember to put the aligners back on after removed for eating or cleaning.

What is the Invisalign treatment process?

Every Invisalign treatment is different because it is tailored to your dental needs – which differs for everyone. Typically, patients will wear their aligners for 22 hours per day. Every 4-6 weeks, you will return to the orthodontist for a new set of aligners. Treatment is gradual but noticeable!

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

Depending on the orthodontic issue or severity of misalignment, treatment is usually successful and complete within 12-15 months on average. Again, every patient is different.

How many hours a day do I wear my Invisalign aligners?

We recommend that patients wear their aligners for a minimum of 22 hours every day. This allows for removing the aligners for eating, certain speaking engagements, or special occasions. Just remember to put them back in after.

What can I eat during my Invisalign treatment?

This is one of the major benefits of Invisalign over traditional braces. Unlike traditional braces, you can remove your Invisalign aligners when eating – which means there aren’t any dietary restrictions. However, sugar still causes cavities and there are foods that just are not good for your teeth or overall health – so having a good sense of what is healthy and what isn’t is helpful.

Does Invisalign affect my speech?

You may notice a difference in how you speak as you adjust to wearing the aligners. After the first week or two, however, your speech should sound normal.

What are the benefits of Invisalign?

There are many benefits of Invisalign including the ability to correct orthodontic issues discreetly, control over your treatment by allowing you to remove aligners for eating, speaking, or special events, and results you can see gradually within a few weeks!

Is Invisalign better than braces?

Invisalign is an alternative to traditional braces. Some patients will like or need traditional braces more, especially if their misalignment is severe.

How do I care for my Invisalign?

The orthodontist will explain to you how to care for your Invisalign aligners. The best way to care for them, however, is to wear them, remove them when eating, and practice good dental hygiene.

How do I keep my Invisalign clean?

Do not use toothpaste on your aligners. You can clean your aligners by simply rinsing them with water, keeping them safe in an aligner container when not wearing them, or asking your orthodontist for a recommendation on an aligner cleaning solution, such as a denture cleaning product.