Invisalign Clear Aligners in Durango, Cortez and Pagosa Springs, CO
Straightening your teeth no longer requires metal brackets or wires. At A Smile by Design, Dr. Phillis offers Invisalign clear aligners as a modern and discreet way to improve your smile. Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, removable aligners that gradually move teeth into their ideal position.
Because the aligners are clear and comfortable, many patients choose Invisalign as a convenient alternative to traditional braces. Whether you want to correct crowding, spacing, or bite concerns, Invisalign may be an excellent solution.
Why Choose Invisalign?
There are several advantages to choosing Invisalign over traditional braces:
Discreet
Straighten your teeth without the metal wires and brackets associated with traditional braces. Invisalign aligners are clear and designed to blend naturally with your smile.
Convenient
The aligners are removable, allowing you to continue your normal daily routine. You can remove them for meals, brushing, and flossing.
Lifestyle-Friendly
Invisalign is ideal for busy professionals, students, athletes, and anyone who prefers a more subtle orthodontic treatment option.
Efficient
Many patients enjoy fewer in-office visits compared to traditional braces, making Invisalign a convenient solution for those with active schedules.
Invisalign Options for All Ages
Invisalign treatment can be customized to meet the needs of patients at different stages of life.
Invisalign First
Designed for younger children, Invisalign First helps guide early tooth alignment, expand dental arches, and create space for incoming permanent teeth. Early orthodontic care can support healthy growth and prevent more complex problems later.
Invisalign Teen
Created specifically for teenagers, Invisalign Teen offers a discreet and comfortable way to straighten teeth without interfering with school, sports, or social activities.
Invisalign for Adults
Many adults choose Invisalign because it allows them to improve their smile while maintaining a professional and natural appearance.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign treatment uses a series of custom-made aligners that gradually move your teeth into their ideal positions.
Dr. Phillis begins by using advanced digital scanning technology to create precise 3D images of your teeth. These images allow us to map out your entire treatment plan and show you a preview of how your smile may look after treatment.
Each aligner is worn for a specific period before progressing to the next one in the series. The aligners gently apply controlled pressure that gradually shifts teeth into alignment.
For best results, aligners should be worn 20 to 22 hours per day, removing them only for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing.
Most patients visit our office periodically to monitor progress and receive their next sets of aligners. Many Invisalign treatments are completed in about a year, although timelines vary depending on each patient’s orthodontic needs.
The Invisalign Treatment Process
Your First Consultation
During your consultation, Dr. Phillis will evaluate your teeth, bite, and overall orthodontic health to determine if Invisalign is the right treatment for you.
Your Custom Treatment Plan
Digital scanning technology allows us to create precise 3D models of your teeth. Using this information, Dr. Phillis develops a personalized treatment plan that outlines how your teeth will gradually move throughout the process.
Your Custom Invisalign Aligners
Your aligners are created specifically for your teeth using advanced Invisalign technology. Each set of aligners is worn for a designated period before switching to the next set in the series.
Monitoring Your Progress
As you progress through each aligner set, your teeth gradually shift into their planned positions. Dr. Phillis will schedule periodic visits to ensure treatment is progressing smoothly.
Maintaining Your New Smile
After completing Invisalign treatment, retainers help maintain your new smile by preventing teeth from shifting back to their previous positions. Dr. Phillis will provide guidance on retainer wear to help protect your results long term.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering Invisalign treatment, you may have questions about how the process works. Below are answers to some of the most common questions patients ask.
Am I a Good Candidate for Invisalign?
Many patients with mild to moderate alignment issues can be treated with Invisalign. During your consultation, Dr. Phillis will evaluate your bite and determine if clear aligners are the right option for your smile.
Will Invisalign Affect My Speech?
Some patients notice a slight adjustment period when they first begin wearing aligners, but speech typically returns to normal within a few days.
How Do I Clean My Invisalign Aligners?
Aligners should be cleaned daily using a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water or a recommended aligner-cleaning solution. Avoid hot water, as it may warp the plastic.
What Happens If I Lose an Aligner?
If an aligner is lost or damaged, contact our office as soon as possible. Dr. Phillis will advise whether you should move to the next set or wear your previous aligner temporarily.
Will I Need Retainers After Invisalign Treatment?
Yes. Retainers are important after orthodontic treatment to maintain your new smile and prevent teeth from shifting over time.
