03 May What to Expect at an Invisalign Consultation

Braces have come a long way since gold was the metal of choice. Now there are many different types of braces to choose from. And Invisalign is one of the most advanced and popular options.

Invisalign uses invisible aligners, which makes the teeth-straightening process easier. They are also removable, and you do not have to worry about any brace wires, to list a few of their many benefits! 

If you are looking into Invisalign, have an Invisalign consultation to learn more. An Invisalign consultation will help determine if this type of brace is right for you.

But what is involved during a consultation? Read on to learn everything you need to know about what happens so that you can attend worry-free!

1. Meet Your Treatment Coordinator

When you arrive at the dentistry office, you will meet your treatment coordinator. They will help get you settled and orient you to the practice.

They will ask you about your health history, and you usually will have a form to fill in. This is generally counted as part of your appointment, but there is no harm in getting there early to get started.

Some of the health history questions may seem unrelated. The dentist needs to know your overall health status, especially if you are new to the practice. It is surprising how many illnesses can impact oral health!

You will also be able to note any concerns or reasons why you are looking into Invisalign. The treatment coordinator will give this to the dentist to read over before you are called in. It is a great way to remember everything, as it is natural to forget some points during the discussion.

Your treatment coordinator will also deal with any insurance queries you have. And they will schedule any future appointments!

2. Invisalign Smile Analysis

You will then start the appointment! The dentist will introduce themselves and get started with a smile analysis.  

The analysis usually uses a safe x-ray to evaluate your teeth. Sometimes it is a physical analysis. The dentist can then analyze your teeth, jaw, mouth, and face to determine how Invisalign will work for you. 

Once they have done this, they will discuss their findings with you. They will keep it simple but cover a lot! The dentist will explain any anticipated problems with treatment. And they will determine if there are any health issues to address, such as root canals or other needs. 

You will also find out the health consequences if you do not go through with brace treatment. It can be surprising for some patients that they have jaw misalignment. So the Invisalign often has more than one function!

3. Your Invisalign Treatment Plan

Once smile analysis and any problems are discussed, you will know if Invisalign works for you. Suppose it’s a yes, great! You will then discuss your Invisalign treatment plan. 

The Invisalign treatment plan is your personalized plan of treatment. It will include the number of appointments and how long you will need the invisible aligners. And the dentist will note how Invisalign will help your teeth-straightening process. 

Your dentist will recommend the best time to start, which may be immediate. Or you may need to wait some time or have some dentistry treatment first. 

4. Discuss Invisalign Costs

Once you know your Invisalign treatment plan, you will be given a quote for the total cost of treatment. Usually, there are different ways you can pay for treatment, such as treatment plans.

Also, ask about discounts, such as referral deals, military discounts, and seasonal promotions. Some dentists will also match fees if you find an Invisalign quote that is cheaper elsewhere. You can bring this quote to your consultation to see if it can be matched before making a final decision.

5. Ask Any Questions!

Your Invisalign consultation is also your time. So do not back from asking any questions you need, no matter how small they feel! Your dentist will be happy to answer them. 

Some questions you can ask in your consultation include:

• Are they the Invisalign brand invisible aligners?
• Do you offer any payment plans?
• Is my insurance accepted?
• What happens if I cannot stick to the Invisalign treatment plan?
• How regularly can I take out the invisible aligners?
• What happens if I break an aligner or lose one? 

It can be helpful to have a notebook handy to record any answers! Your dentist will also provide a copy of your Invisalign treatment plan. 

6. Make a Decision!

There is no pressure to decide between Invisalign in your consultation. However, if your teeth are ready, sometimes it is possible to get the invisible aligners the same day! Do not rush your decision, but if it does feel right, go for it!

If you are still unsure, take some time to think about Invisalign. Consider reading patient testimonials to learn more. It can also be inspiring to look at before and after photos of Invisalign treatment.

7. Start the Teeth-Straightening Process!

Whether you decide in the consultation or after, book an appointment to get started when you can! It is best to follow the dentist’s advice about when to start, even if it means more dentist treatments first. It will be worth it and will save more costly issues, which may also impact your smile down the line.

Schedule Your Free Invisalign Consultation

As they say, preparation is vital. It is excellent to know what is involved in an Invisalign consultation to go in relaxed and ready. After all, it is exciting and life-changing to start your teeth-straightening process!

However, always go with a reputable dentist, even for the initial consultation. It will save you time, money, and your oral health in the long run. 

The great news is that at San Diego Invisalign, we offer a free Invisalign consultation! So do not worry about the commitment or cost if you are unsure.

We have over 30 years of experience and can also help with other dentistry treatments too. Are you interested in learning more? Book your free consultation today!