Invisalign in New York, NY
Invisalign straightens teeth with a series of clear, removable aligners, an option for adults with mild crowding or spacing who prefer to avoid braces.
About Invisalign at Rock Dental
Invisalign® is a modern alternative to straighten your teeth without wires or metal. Invisalign® involves a series of custom trays designed specifically for you and the plan your dentist or orthodontist creates to move your teeth. The trays are made from a smooth plastic that covers your teeth and gradually moves them into place.
Why Straighter Teeth Are About More Than Looks
Crowded or overlapping teeth create tight corners where plaque collects and where a toothbrush and floss struggle to reach. Over time that can raise the risk of decay and gum inflammation. Teeth that do not meet evenly may also wear unevenly. Straightening them is often thought of as cosmetic, and feeling good about your smile is a valid reason on its own, but better alignment can make daily cleaning easier too.
Many adults put off straightening because they do not want visible braces at work. Clear aligners are far less noticeable, and you take them out to eat, so there is no list of forbidden foods. At Rock Dental, Dr. Nancy Coughlin's practice includes mild orthodontics with Invisalign. Aligners are not right for every bite problem, and more complex cases may be better served by an orthodontist. An exam is how you find out which group you fall into.
What to Expect During Invisalign Treatment
It begins with an exam, where your dentist checks your teeth, gums, and bite and takes records such as images and impressions. Any decay or gum problems are typically treated first. From those records, a plan is drawn up showing how your teeth should move step by step, and your custom trays are made to match. When you pick up your first aligners, the team will show you how to insert, remove, and clean them.
Aligners generally need to be worn 20 to 22 hours a day, coming out only for meals, drinks other than water, and brushing. You switch to a new set on the schedule your dentist gives you, often every one to two weeks, and come in periodically so progress can be checked. Each new tray tends to feel tight for a day or two. After treatment, a retainer is typically needed to keep teeth from drifting back.
Common Questions
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Does Invisalign hurt?
Can I eat and drink with my aligners in?
Am I a good candidate for Invisalign?
Will I need a retainer after Invisalign?
Terms You May Hear
- Aligner
- A thin, clear plastic tray that fits over your teeth and gently moves them a little at a time.
- Attachments
- Small tooth-colored bumps bonded to certain teeth to help aligners grip and guide movement.
- Retainer
- An appliance worn after treatment to hold teeth in their new positions.
Related Services
Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin custom shells bonded to the front of teeth to change their color, shape, or size for adults seeking a noticeable cosmetic improvement.
Bonding
Dental bonding uses tooth-colored resin to repair chips, close small gaps, and reshape teeth, a conservative option for adults who want a modest cosmetic change.
Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening lightens stains from coffee, wine and everyday life under a dentist's supervision, for adults who want a brighter smile without changing their teeth.
Cleanings and Exams
A routine dental cleaning and exam removes plaque and tartar and checks your teeth and gums, helping adults catch small problems before they grow.
Request an appointment
We will do our best to accommodate your busy schedule. Request an appointment today!