Invisalign

Gone are the days when getting braces meant embarrassing “metal mouth” and headgear. With Invisalign®, you can discreetly straighten your teeth without anyone knowing you have them on. Alex Pastel, DDS, Megan Morrow, DDS, and the experienced team at Pastel Dental in San Francisco, California, offer adults and teens Invisalign to help them achieve straighter smiles.

FAQs

Everything you need to know about dental care

What is Invisalign®?

Invisalign® is a teeth-straightening system for adults and teens that uses a series of custommade, clear aligners to gradually move teeth into their ideal position. At Pastel Dental, we create a personalized treatment plan designed specifically for your smile and bite.

Each set of aligners is worn for a designated period before progressing to the next stage of treatment, as instructed by your dentist. One of the main benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable, allowing you to eat, drink, brush, and floss with ease.

Because they are made from clear, discreet material, Invisalign aligners are barely noticeable when worn, making them a popular choice for patients seeking a more subtle orthodontic option. Invisalign can help correct crowding, spacing, and various bite concerns.

Can Invisalign be used for all ages?

Invisalign is well-suited for adults and teens. Younger patients whose teeth are still growing may not be good candidates for the treatment since the aligners are customized for a tight fit. Your dentist at Pastel Dental makes a recommendation on the best type of teeth straightening solution after they meet with you, learn about your oral health goals, and conduct a thorough dental examination.

How do I get started with Invisalign?

Your Invisalign journey at Pastel Dental begins with a thorough exam. Your dentist then takes a 3D scan of your teeth, which goes to the Invisalign lab. As soon as they finish making your custom aligners, you return to Pastel Dental for your fitting. Once you start wearing the aligners, you visit your dentist for regular check-ups, typically every six weeks. They make sure the aligners are straightening your teeth as expected and that you’re using them correctly. If you have any issues with your aligners, you can contact Pastel Dental at any time, but most patients don’t experience problems.

How many hours per day do I have to wear my aligners?

For best results, the team at Pastel Dental recommends wearing your Invisalign® aligners for 20–22 hours per day. They can be removed when eating, drinking, and cleaning your teeth.

After brushing and flossing, simply place your aligners back in before going to sleep to ensure your treatment stays on track.