Invisalign® Candidacy | Chicago Dentist Near You

Your Path to a Straighter Smile: Are You a Candidate for Invisalign®?

Imagine wanting to transform your smile but feeling uncertain about which path to take. You’ve heard about Invisalign, its clear aligners, and its incredible ability to discreetly straighten teeth. Yet, a fundamental question remains: “Am I a candidate for Invisalign?” It’s a question that many people ask, and the answer is more promising than you might think. At Contos Smile Center, home of the best dentist in Chicago, Dr. Contos is ready to help you find the answer.

If you are ready to find out if you are a candidate for a clear aligner smile, we invite you to connect with us. Residents of the Wicker Park, Lincoln Park, or West Loop neighborhoods can call us today at (773) 973-0531 for a consultation and take the first step toward the smile you have always wanted.

Why Choose Our Chicago Dental Practice for Invisalign?

When choosing a local dental practice for your Invisalign treatment, it’s essential to find a team that combines expertise, advanced technology, and a commitment to patient comfort. At Contos Smile Center in Chicago, we offer a unique experience that sets us apart as a top choice for your smile journey.

A Foundation of Trust: Our practice is built on strong, lasting relationships with our patients. The team, including Dr. Aristides P. Contos, Dr. Peter A. Contos, and Dr. Maria Sinis Contos, takes the time to listen to your concerns and understand your smile goals.
Cutting-Edge Technology: We are dedicated to staying at the forefront of dental innovation. Our office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, such as digital scanners, which create precise 3D models of your teeth.
A Warm and Welcoming Environment: We understand that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for some. Our team is dedicated to creating a positive and enjoyable atmosphere for every patient. We listen to your concerns, provide clear explanations, and work to make every appointment as comfortable as possible.

Our patient reviews speak to the compassionate and professional care we provide, confirming that you will be treated like a valued member of our community.

What Can Invisalign Correct?

Invisalign has evolved into a powerful orthodontic tool capable of correcting a wide range of dental and bite issues. While it is known for its ability to fix minor to moderate cosmetic concerns, its capabilities extend far beyond that. For instance, Invisalign can also resolve open bites, providing a comprehensive solution for various alignment challenges.

Crowded and Crooked Teeth: When there isn’t enough space in your jaw for all your teeth, they can become crowded, overlapped, and misaligned. Invisalign can gently move your teeth into their proper positions, creating a beautifully spaced and aligned smile.
Gaps and Spacing Issues: Whether you have a small gap between your two front teeth or wider spaces throughout your smile, Invisalign can effectively close these gaps, improving both the appearance and health of your mouth.
Overbites and Underbites: An overbite (where your upper teeth overlap your lower teeth) and an underbite (where your lower teeth extend past your upper teeth) can be treated with Invisalign. The aligners work to gradually reposition your teeth and jaw to achieve a healthier, more balanced bite.
Crossbites: This occurs when some of your upper teeth sit inside your lower teeth. Invisalign can precisely adjust the positioning of your teeth to correct this issue and prevent uneven wear.

Who Qualifies for Invisalign Treatment?

The ideal candidate for Invisalign is someone with healthy gums and teeth who is motivated to follow the treatment plan. Your eligibility, which defines if you are a good Invisalign candidate, is determined by a few key factors. A comprehensive dental exam is typically conducted before beginning Invisalign treatment to ensure the teeth and gums are in good condition.

Good Oral Health: You must be free from active gum disease and have any cavities filled before beginning Invisalign treatment. A healthy foundation is essential for successful tooth movement. Healthy gums are particularly important because Invisalign trays fit snugly over the teeth and rely on the surrounding tissue for stability.
Commitment to the Process: Invisalign requires wearing the aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day. Candidates must be committed to this schedule to achieve their desired results within the estimated timeframe.
Age Considerations: While a popular choice for adults and teens, Invisalign can also be used for younger patients. The key is that a child must have most of their permanent teeth in place. There is no upper age limit for treatment, provided your oral health is good.
Complexity of Your Case: Invisalign is highly effective for mild to moderate cases of crowding, spacing, and bite issues. Advances in the system have made it possible to treat many severe cases, but a thorough consultation is needed to determine the best course of action.

Who Doesn’t Qualify for Invisalign Treatment?

While Invisalign is an excellent option for many, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. There are some situations where another form of orthodontic treatment, like traditional metal braces, may be more effective.

Severe Orthodontic Problems: Cases that require a significant amount of vertical tooth movement (pulling a tooth up or down) or extensive jaw correction may be better suited for traditional braces, which can apply stronger forces.
Unhealthy Gums or Teeth: Patients with untreated cavities, active gum disease, or severe gum recession must have these issues addressed before starting Invisalign treatment.
Lack of Commitment: Since Invisalign aligners are removable, they rely heavily on patient compliance. Individuals who feel they cannot commit to wearing the aligners for the required 20-22 hours per day will not achieve the desired results.
Certain Tooth Shapes: Some teeth that are very short, round, or have a unique shape may not allow the aligner to get a proper grip, which can hinder the effectiveness of the treatment.

The Importance of a Custom Invisalign Consultation

A professional Invisalign consultation is the single most important step in your smile journey. It is the only way to accurately determine if you are a candidate for treatment and to create a plan that is right for you.

Personalized Assessment: During your Invisalign consultation, your orthodontist will perform a thorough dental exam and use digital scans to create a precise 3D model of your mouth. This allows them to analyze your specific concerns and create a custom treatment plan.
Understanding Your Goals: The consultation is your opportunity to discuss what you hope to achieve with your smile. Your orthodontist can then explain the expected results, the estimated timeline, and the benefits of Invisalign for your particular case.
Realistic Expectations: Your orthodontist will be upfront about what Invisalign can and cannot correct for you. This conversation helps to set realistic expectations and ensures that you are making an informed decision about your oral health.
Financial Clarity: A custom consultation provides a transparent breakdown of the costs involved, including the treatment fees and any available payment options or insurance coverage. This eliminates guesswork and helps you plan your investment with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get Invisalign if I have dental crowns or veneers?

Having Invisalign with dental crowns or Invisalign with veneers does not automatically prevent you from being a candidate. It is a common situation. Dr. Contos will carefully evaluate your specific restorations and tooth structure during your dental exam to determine the best approach for moving your teeth without damaging your existing work.

Is there an age limit for Invisalign candidacy?

While Invisalign is highly popular with adults, it is also a great option for teens. Invisalign Teen is designed specifically for younger patients, accommodating their growing mouths and dental maturity. There is no upper age limit for orthodontic treatment, so as long as your teeth and gums are healthy, you can be a candidate for Invisalign at any stage of life. The bones in adult jaws are no longer growing, so the treatment may take longer than in a teenager, but teeth can be moved at any age.

Can Invisalign fix my bite issues?

Yes, Invisalign is designed to treat a variety of bite problems, including overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Through the use of attachments and other advanced techniques, an Invisalign provider can apply precise forces to correct your bite.

How important is patient compliance for Invisalign candidacy?

Patient compliance is a critical factor in Invisalign candidacy. Because the aligners are removable, you are responsible for wearing them for 20 to 22 hours per day for straight teeth. If you don’t wear them as instructed, your treatment will not progress as planned, and you may not achieve your desired results. Smoking during the treatment process can affect the effectiveness of Invisalign aligners. Dr. Contos will discuss this with you during your Invisalign consultation to make sure you are ready to commit to the treatment plan.

Discover If You’re Eligible for Clear Tooth Aligners in Chicago

Your smile is a powerful tool for self-expression and connection, and it deserves to be a source of pride. The journey to a beautifully aligned smile can feel like a significant step, but with the right guidance, it can be a smooth and rewarding experience. If you’re a resident of the Belmont Cragin, Avondale, or Irving Park neighborhoods, we understand your unique needs and are ready to serve you.

Your path to discovering your Invisalign candidacy is just a phone call away. Call our Chicago dental office at (773) 973-0531 today to schedule your consultation and begin your transformation.