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Invisalign® Specialist

Downey Smile Center

Dentists located in Downey, CA

Once their permanent teeth come in, almost 75% of people end up with some kind of alignment issue. That’s why procedures to align teeth are so common and why Won Young Kim, DDS offers InvisalignⓇ at the Downey Smile Center. Invisalign improves your smile quickly, with hidden, removable mouthpieces, and is much less obtrusive than traditional braces. To see if you’re a good candidate for Invisalign, contact our Downey, California, office.

Invisalign Q & A

How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign is a system that uses clear teeth aligners to straighten your teeth. The transparent mouthpieces are custom-made for your mouth and provide a covert alternative to braces.

Once you’ve had a consultation to determine your readiness and qualification for Invisalign, you’ll set up your first appointment. During the appointment, your dentist takes 3D images of your teeth. He uses those images to map out an exact timeline for shifting your teeth. The 3D rendering allows you to see exactly what will happen to your teeth throughout the process and what the final result will look like.

The lab then prepares and sends you a series of personalized aligners, based on the 3D images, that gradually shift your teeth into proper alignment. Each aligner is engineered with the exact amount of force at precise intervals to create the perfect smile for you. You’ll wear each aligner for about two weeks, for 20-22 hours per day.

How long does the treatment take?

Treatment varies depending on your unique mouth layout and the amount of adjusting your teeth need; on average, treatment takes about a year for adults. Downey Smile Center also offers Invisalign Express treatment for minor orthodontic issues, which takes less than six months.

Am I a good candidate for Invisalign?

Research shows that Invisalign is appropriate for a wide range of issues including:

  • Gapped teeth
  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • Open bite
  • Crossbite
  • Overly crowded teeth

Dr. Kim can fix most misalignment issues with Invisalign, and the technology is always improving to accommodate even more cases.

What are the benefits of Invisalign vs. braces?

Invisalign adjusters are made of a clear thermoplastic material that fits your teeth exactly, so most people won’t even be able to tell you’re wearing them. The clear trays are a comfortable, covert deviation from the wires and brackets you get with braces.

Since the adjusters are removable, you can eat and brush without anything on your teeth, and you won’t be given any dietary restrictions like you would with braces.

Invisalign requires fewer check-ins than braces as well. The Invisalign trays don’t require physical adjustments like braces do, so you only have to make brief visits every six weeks or so to check on your progress.

The Downey Smile Center offers a special $500 discount on Invisalign. Call the office today to set up a consultation.