Invisalign in North Carolina

Providing quality orthodontic treatment in Durham, Raleigh, and Goldsboro.

Our team at Carolina Dental Arts can help you achieve a stunning smile, no matter your age. We are proud to offer Invisalign® as part of our orthodontic services. Invisalign is a fantastic option for patients who are concerned about their appearance during treatment. Crafted from smooth plastic, these aligners offer a comfortable, invisible solution to guide your teeth into a flawless smile.

Dr. Powell is a platinum Invisalign provider, demonstrating his high level of expertise and skill in using advanced orthodontic techniques to create beautiful, straight smiles.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign® is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of transparent, removable aligners to realign your teeth. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing, making them a convenient and attractive option for many patients.

Invisalign is suitable for various concerns and can be a great option for those with:

Crooked teeth
Crowded teeth
Gaps between teeth
Overbite
Underbite
Crossbite
Openbite

Invisalign is especially effective for mild to moderate orthodontic needs. During your free consultation, we can determine if it’s the right solution for you.

How Invisalign Works

Invisalign in North Carolina | Carolina Dental Arts Invisalign® shifts teeth into their proper positions using a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners. Each aligner is designed to move the teeth incrementally. To start the Invisalign process, Dr. Powell creates a 3D digital model of your teeth and maps out a precise treatment plan. This plan details the movement of your teeth over time. Based on this model, a series of aligners are fabricated. Each aligner differs slightly from the previous one, gradually moving your teeth into alignment.

You wear each set of aligners for about two weeks, for 20 to 22 hours each day. You will remove them whenever you eat and drink and when you brush and floss. The aligners apply controlled forces to the teeth, encouraging them to move into new positions. Over time, these small adjustments add up, and your teeth are guided gently into their final, desired positions. Regular checkups with Dr. Powell ensure your treatment progresses as planned and allow him to make any necessary adjustments to help keep you on track.

How Invisalign Differs From Traditional Braces

Invisalign® and braces are both effective methods for properly aligning your teeth. However, they do so in different ways. While they differ in appearance, comfort, convenience, and dietary restrictions, their overall costs are similar.

Appearance

Invisalign aligners are clear and virtually invisible, providing a discreet way to straighten your teeth without the noticeable metal brackets and wires of traditional braces. This feature makes Invisalign a preferred option for adults and teens who want to avoid the appearance of braces.

Comfort

Invisalign aligners are made from smooth plastic, which reduces the likelihood of irritating the gums and cheeks. In contrast, traditional braces have metal components that can cause discomfort and sores inside the mouth. A 2022 study showed that patients report less pain and higher quality of life scores with clear aligners than conventional braces.

Convenience

Invisalign aligners are removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, offering greater flexibility and ease of maintenance. You can also choose to remove them for special occasions like weddings and job interviews. Traditional braces, on the other hand, are fixed in place and won’t be removed until treatment is complete. They also require special techniques for cleaning around the brackets and wires, which can be more time-consuming and cumbersome.

Dietary Restrictions

There are no dietary restrictions with Invisalign. Removing the aligners before meals allows you to enjoy all of your favorite foods. Those who wear braces must avoid certain foods, such as hard or sticky items, to prevent damaging the wires and brackets.

Cost

The cost of Invisalign can be comparable to that of traditional braces, but it varies based on the complexity of the case and the length of treatment. While both options generally fall within a similar price range, Invisalign may offer additional value due to its convenience and aesthetic benefits.

Why Choose Carolina Dental Arts for Invisalign Treatment?

Carolina Dental Arts is an excellent choice for Invisalign® treatment. Here are some reasons why:

Experienced provider: Dr. Powell is a platinum Invisalign provider, which indicates his extensive experience and training in Invisalign treatments. His platinum status highlights the many successful smile transformations he has helped his patients achieve.
Personalized comprehensive care: We develop customized treatment plans to meet your specific dental needs. Additionally, with our wide range of services, we can address nearly any dental issue right here in our office—from Invisalign treatment to gum disease therapy, teeth whitening, mini dental implants, and more.
Convenient locations: With offices in Durham, Raleigh, and Goldsboro, we provide accessible care for patients throughout North Carolina.
Advanced technology: We use the latest dental technologies to ensure precise and effective treatment. Each of our dentists consistently earns hundreds of hours in continuing education credits every year, underscoring our commitment to offering cutting-edge services.
Patient-centered approach: Our patient-centered approach is all about making you feel comfortable and supported. We take pride in being a family-friendly practice and fostering long-lasting relationships based on trust and compassionate care.

Learn More About Invisalign for Adults and Kids

Invisalign® is a modern, convenient, and discreet solution for achieving a beautifully aligned smile. These clear aligners are virtually invisible, comfortable, and easy to maintain. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.

At Carolina Dental Arts, Dr. Powell’s expertise as a platinum Invisalign provider ensures you receive high-quality care tailored to your unique needs. Take the first step towards a confident smile today—book a free consultation at one of our convenient locations in Durham, Raleigh, or Goldsboro. We look forward to helping you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted!

Frequently Asked Questions

How painful are clear aligners?

Many patients find clear aligners, like Invisalign, more comfortable than traditional braces. While you might experience some initial discomfort or pressure when switching to a new set of aligners, this is typically mild and temporary. This sensation is a sign that the aligners are working to shift your teeth into their new positions. Most patients find this discomfort manageable, especially with over-the-counter pain relievers. Overall, clear aligners are designed to be smooth and gentle, minimizing irritation to your cheeks and gums.

How long does Invisalign take to work?

The treatment duration varies based on each patient’s individual needs. However, most patients complete their treatment within 12 to 18 months. The exact time depends on the complexity of your orthodontic needs and how consistently you wear your aligners.

During your initial consultation, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that outlines the expected duration. Regular check-ins help us monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. Remember, wearing your aligners for 20-22 hours per day is key to achieving the best results in the estimated timeframe.

What is the best age to start Invisalign treatment?

Invisalign treatment is a great option for teenagers and adults alike. For teens, it’s typically best to start once most of the permanent teeth have erupted, usually around age 12 to 14. Adults of any age can benefit from Invisalign, as long as their teeth and gums are healthy. The key factor is that the patient is committed to wearing the aligners as prescribed.

During your consultation, we will assess your specific dental situation and discuss whether Invisalign is the right choice for you or your child.

What happens if I don't wear my aligners 20-22 hours daily?

Wearing your aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours daily helps to ensure your treatment progresses as planned. If you wear them less frequently you can prolong your treatment time and compromise the final results.

Inconsistent wear can lead to discomfort when you reinsert them, as your teeth might shift back to their original positions. Additionally, it could result in your aligners not fitting properly, which requires adjustments or new aligners. To ensure the best outcome, make it a habit to wear your aligners as prescribed, removing them only for eating, drinking, brushing, flossing, and special occasions.