How Invisalign Works

The Invisalign system uses a series of custom-made clear aligners that gradually shift teeth into their ideal positions. Each set moves teeth slightly, and you switch to a new set approximately every two weeks. The aligners apply gentle, consistent pressure that guides teeth exactly where they need to go.

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation, during which Dr. Lewis evaluates your bite and discusses your goals. We then use advanced 3D imaging technology to create a precise digital model of your teeth. This technology lets us map out your entire treatment plan from start to finish, showing you a preview of your future smile before you even begin. You’ll know exactly how your teeth will move and how long treatment will take.

What Invisalign Can Fix

Many assume Invisalign only works for minor crowding, but this versatile system corrects many orthodontic issues. Our Invisalign in Brea successfully treats:

• Crowded teeth that overlap or twist
• Gaps and spaces between teeth
• Overbites where the upper teeth extend too far forward
• Underbites where the lower teeth protrude past the upper teeth
• Crossbites that cause uneven wear
• Open bites that prevent proper contact between upper and lower teeth

During your consultation, Dr. J. Dennis Lewis assesses your specific situation and determines if Invisalign will deliver the results you want. Though severe cases may require traditional orthodontics, most adults and teens qualify for treatment.

The Advantages of Clear Aligners

Invisalign offers benefits that traditional braces simply can’t match. The clear plastic makes the aligners virtually invisible, so most people won’t even notice you’re straightening your teeth. Throughout your treatment, you can smile confidently in photos, presentations, and social situations.

The removable design gives you the freedom that fixed braces never could. Take out your aligners before meals and enjoy all your favorite foods without restrictions. No more avoiding popcorn, apples, or sticky foods. Remove your aligners to brush and floss normally, maintaining excellent oral hygiene throughout treatment. This accessibility reduces your risk of cavities and gum disease compared to traditional braces that trap food and make cleaning difficult.

Comfort represents another major advantage. Invisalign aligners have smooth edges that won’t irritate your cheeks or gums like metal brackets and wires often do. You might feel slight pressure when switching to a new set of aligners, but most patients adjust quickly without significant discomfort.

Your Invisalign Treatment Journey

Starting your Invisalign in Brea treatment is straightforward and exciting. After your initial consultation and digital imaging, we send your treatment plan to Invisalign’s lab, where technicians custom-fabricate your complete series of aligners. You’ll receive several sets at once, reducing the number of office visits you need compared to traditional braces that require frequent adjustments.

You’ll wear your aligners for 20-22 hours each day, removing them only for eating, drinking anything other than water, and cleaning your teeth. Consistency matters—the more faithfully you wear your aligners, the faster and more predictable your results will be. Most patients adapt to wearing aligners within a few days and soon forget they’re even there.

You’ll visit our office every six to eight weeks so Dr. Lewis can monitor your progress and ensure your teeth are moving according to plan. These quick appointments take far less time than traditional orthodontic adjustments. We will provide you with your next set of aligners and address any questions or concerns.

Treatment length varies depending on the complexity of your case. Minor adjustments might take six months, while more extensive corrections could require 18 months or longer. During your consultation, Dr. J. Dennis Lewis gives you a personalized timeline so you know what to expect.

Invisalign for Teens

Teenagers face unique social pressures that make visible braces particularly unwelcome. Invisalign Teen offers all the benefits of adult treatment with special features designed for younger patients. Blue compliance indicators on the aligners fade with wear, helping teens and parents monitor proper usage. The system also includes replacement aligners at no extra cost in case any get lost—a common occurrence with active teenagers.

Many teens wear their aligners more consistently than they would care for traditional braces, leading to faster results and fewer problems. The ability to remove aligners for sports, band performances, or special occasions makes treatment much easier to manage alongside busy teenage schedules.

Maintaining Your New Smile

Once your teeth reach their ideal positions, you’re not quite finished. Like all orthodontic treatments, Invisalign requires retainers to maintain your results. Dr. Lewis provides custom retainers you’ll wear at night to prevent your teeth from gradually shifting back. This final step protects your investment and keeps your smile straight for life.

Life-Changing Results Without the Hassle

Straightening your teeth improves more than just aesthetics. Properly aligned teeth function better, wear more evenly, and are easier to keep clean. Many patients report reduced jaw pain and tension headaches after treatment. But the most significant benefit is the confidence boost from loving your smile.

Our practice makes Invisalign accessible with flexible payment plans that fit various budgets. We also work with most insurance providers; many plans cover orthodontic treatment regardless of age.

Invisalign in Brea

Stop hiding your smile and start the journey toward the straight teeth you’ve always wanted. Contact J. Dennis Lewis Dentistry today to schedule your Invisalign consultation. Dr. Lewis will evaluate your teeth, answer all your questions, and show you exactly how Invisalign can transform your smile. Call our Brea office now and discover how easy and convenient straightening your teeth can be!