Your Treatment | Franklin Orthodontics

Invisalign

Dr. Franklin loves using this cutting-edge technology to treat patients who would not normally consider orthodontic treatment if it meant braces. Invisalign is a series of removable clear aligners that gradually move the teeth into a corrected position. Because they are removable you can eat and clean your teeth as usual, and because they are clear most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them. For additional information and to take advantage of some of the tools on the Invisalign website click here

Will Invisalign work for me?

Invisalign, like any orthodontic appliance, has strengths and weaknesses, but because Dr. Franklin has had extensive additional training with some of the top providers in the country, as well as years of experience with Invisalign as a Gold Level provider she will most likely be able create a beautiful result for you with this lifestyle-friendly and esthetic appliance.

Will treatment take longer with Invisalign?

Probably not! In Dr. Franklin's experience mild-moderate cases will often take less time with Invisalign and will usually require fewer appointments.

Can wearing Invisalign cause cavities?

In and of itself, no. In fact, we would expect to see fewer cavities than in braces patients due to the ease of brushing and flossing! The only way that Invisalign could contribute to cavities is if you are drinking sugary drinks with the aligners in place and forgetting to rinse and brush afterwards. When we first get started with your treatment we will review all the care instructions so that your teeth stay healthy and clean.

Does Invisalign work for teens?

Yes, So glad you asked! Invisalign's teen product is something that Dr. Franklin and her team are very excited about! We have wonderful success with our teen cases, and our teen patients and their parents love it too. Here are the Top 10 Reasons that we, at Franklin Orthodontics, are loving Invisalign Teen:
1. No food restrictions
2. No braces or hardware to brush around
3. Invisalign Teen is way more comfortable than braces
4. Increased patient CONFIDENCE using Invisalign Teen, which leads to a more positive orthodontic experience
5. No broken brackets or pokey wires or emergency visits
6. Shorter appointments and fewer appointments--less missing activities and school!
7. No interference with school activities, like sports and instruments
8. Invisalign Teen includes up to 6 replacement aligners just in case you lose one along the way
9. Same cost as braces
10. Less disruption to the usual routine--your teen can focus on what they do best, being a teenager!

Braces

Braces may seem to be the traditional route, but you may be surprised to find how small and comfortable the newest braces are, compared to older versions. When braces are first placed on the teeth we will also place a wire to connect them and start aligning the teeth. The wire is held in place by small rubber bands, which can be clear, silver or colored. When you come back for periodic checks we sometimes change your wire, but we will always change your rubber bands.

Everyone knows about metal braces, but at Franklin Orthodontics we really enjoy using clear braces too! They are made by 3M from high quality porcelain to resist staining, and the small rubber bands that hold the wire in place can be clear or colored. Ceramics are a perfect option for patients who do not want Invisalign but prefer a more esthetic look. Because we want each patient to love their smile during and after treatment there is no additional cost for esthetic brackets!

How quickly will my teeth align?

You will see changes within the first couple of weeks! Patients are usually pleasantly surprised at how quickly improvements occur, but remember that Dr. Franklin is looking not only at the alignment but also at your bite. Bite corrections may take 12-18 additional months.

Will I need to have treatment on both top and bottom?

Most patients do need both top and bottom in order to correct the bite and to allow the teeth to fit together properly. However, some patients may be a candidate for only uppers or lowers. This would be a great question to ask at your initial consultation.

What is the average treatment time?

Most patients are in and out of treatment within 18-22 months. For a more specific estimate, based on your unique case, Dr. Franklin would need to look at your teeth and perform an exam, diagnosis and treatment plan. Fortunately, our office offers this service to you at no cost. Come on in!

Do patients normally finish during the estimated time frame?

Yes. Dr. Franklin takes this estimate very seriously and understands that this is one of the most important aspects of a trusting relationship and a successful orthodontic treatment. If we foresee any change to the treatment plan or time frame due to things out of our control, such as growth and patient compliance with the treatment, Dr. Franklin will host a second consultation to discuss this and explain how to get back on track.

iTero Scanner

Most of the gooey molds that you may remember from your orthodontic and dental visits have been eliminated thanks to our iTero scanner. The scan is more accurate for when we fabricate appliances, including Invisalign aligners, and the experience is much more comfortable for our patients. The iTero software can also generate a simulated outcome to show you just what can be done orthodontically to improve your bite and smile.