Invisalign: Straighten Your Smile Without the Metal
Thinking about straightening your teeth but not excited about metal brackets and wires? You’re not alone. Plenty of adults and teens put off orthodontic care because they worry about how braces will look, feel, or fit into a busy schedule. At Parkland Smile Dental, we offer Invisalign in Parkland and Tacoma, WA as a clear, comfortable way to move your teeth into place. Our friendly team explains every step, so you always know what’s happening and why.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners to gradually shift your teeth. You wear each set for about one to two weeks before switching to the next. Little by little, your teeth move toward the result we planned together at the start. Because the aligners are removable, you can take them out to eat, brush, and floss. Clear aligner treatment can help with:
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbites, underbites, and crossbites
- Mild to moderate crookedness
- Teeth that have shifted after earlier orthodontic care
5 Reasons Patients Choose Invisalign
- It’s nearly invisible. Clear aligners blend in with your smile, so you can feel confident at work, school, and in photos.
- You can still eat what you love. Just pop your aligners out at mealtime. No food restrictions, no broken brackets.
- It’s comfortable. Smooth plastic trays mean no wires poking your cheeks or brackets rubbing your lips.
- Cleaning is easy. Brush and floss the way you normally would, without threading floss around hardware.
- Visits are quick. Check-ins are short and simple, so treatment fits easily into your routine.
Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces
Feature | Invisalign | Traditional Braces |
Appearance | Clear and nearly invisible | Visible brackets and wires |
Eating | Remove aligners and eat anything | Avoid sticky, hard, and chewy foods |
Cleaning | Brush and floss normally | Special tools needed around brackets |
Comfort | Smooth plastic trays | Wires and brackets can irritate |
Office Visits | Quick progress check-ins | Regular wire adjustments |
What to Expect During Treatment
Before: Your Consultation
We’ll talk about your goals, examine your teeth and gums, and take digital X-rays. Instead of messy putty molds, we use digital impressions to capture a precise 3D model of your smile. From there, you’ll get a preview of how your teeth are expected to move.
During: Wearing Your Aligners
For the best results, you’ll wear your aligners 20 to 22 hours a day, removing them only to eat, drink anything other than water, and clean your teeth. Every week or two, you’ll switch to a fresh set. We’ll see you for periodic check-ins to make sure everything is on track.
After: Keeping Your Results
Once your teeth reach their new positions, a custom retainer helps hold them in place.
Modern Technology for Precise Planning
Our office uses digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and cone beam 3D imaging when a closer look is needed. These tools help us spot concerns early and plan each tooth movement with care.
Comfort and Care at Every Visit
We’re a small, tight-knit team that loves what we do, and we like to keep things light and friendly. If dental visits make you nervous, just tell us. We’ll take things at your pace and answer every question along the way. Our team also speaks English, Spanish, Korean, Cantonese, and Mandarin.
Experienced, Caring Dentists
Dr. Andrew Lee, DDS, FAGD, FICOI, completed a hospital-based residency rotating through the VA Palo Alto, Stanford University Medical Center, and Highland Alameda County Hospital. He has earned fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Dr. Wai Shan Chiu, DDS, earned her dental degree from the University of Washington. Together, they bring a focus on education, prevention, and clear communication to every Invisalign case.
Invisalign FAQs
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
It depends on your smile. Many treatments take about 12 to 18 months, and simpler cases may finish sooner. We’ll give you a personalized timeline at your consultation.
Does Invisalign hurt?
Most patients feel mild pressure for a day or two after switching to a new set of aligners. It’s a sign your teeth are moving, and it fades quickly.
Does insurance cover clear aligners?
Many dental plans include orthodontic benefits. We work with Delta Dental, MetLife, Aetna, Cigna, Regence, and others, and we also offer CareCredit financing.
Am I a good candidate?
Most teens and adults with healthy teeth and gums are great candidates. A quick consultation will tell us whether aligners are the right fit for you.
Ready for a Straighter Smile? Let’s Get Started
Our team makes Invisalign in Parkland and Tacoma, WA simple, comfortable, and easy to fit into your life. Call Parkland Smile Dental or book your appointment online today. Have questions about cost or coverage? We’re happy to verify your insurance benefits and help you explore your options before you get started.
