At a glance
Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable plastic aligners to move teeth gradually. We offer it for some adults with mild to moderate crowding or spacing, after an exam to check it’s the right fit. It is one of our cosmetic dentistry options.
We don’t place braces; for braces, or for complex bite problems, we refer you to an orthodontist. You get a written estimate before treatment.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Who it’s for | Adults with mild to moderate crowding or spacing and healthy teeth and gums |
| Visits | Consultation, records, aligner fitting, then check-ins every several weeks |
| Daily wear | Most of the day and night; out only to eat, drink anything but water, and clean |
| Numbing | Not needed |
| Price | Written estimate before treatment (see dental prices) |
| Insurance | Some PPO plans include orthodontic benefits; we check yours |
| Saturday appointments | Yes, Saturdays 9am–3pm, plus Tuesday and Wednesday |
Is Invisalign right for you?
- Front teeth that are a little crowded or overlapping
- Small gaps between teeth
- Teeth that shifted after braces years ago
- You’d prefer something removable and less visible
Aligners need you to wear them consistently. Severe crowding, large bite problems and jaw issues usually do better with an orthodontist. Cavities and gum disease need treatment before aligners start.
What is daily life with aligners like?
- Take aligners out to eat and to drink anything other than plain water.
- Brush your teeth before putting them back in, so food isn’t trapped against your teeth.
- Keep them in their case when they’re out. Many aligners are lost wrapped in a napkin.
- Speech may feel a little different for the first few days.
- Expect pressure for a day or two with each new set; that means the teeth are moving.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
It depends on how far your teeth need to move. Simple spacing cases finish sooner than crowding, and the exact time comes from your treatment plan after the exam. Wearing aligners as directed is the biggest factor you control. If we see that your case needs more than aligners can do, we’ll tell you and refer you to an orthodontist rather than start treatment.
Why do teeth and gums need to be healthy first?
Moving teeth puts gentle force on the bone and gums around them. If gums are inflamed or bone has been lost to gum disease, movement can make things worse. Cavities also get harder to clean under aligners. That’s why your exam includes a check of your gums, a cleaning if needed, and treatment of any decay, usually with a filling, before aligners begin.
What happens at your visit
- Exam: we check your teeth, gums and bite and talk about what you want to change.
- Records: we take X-rays, photos and impressions to plan your treatment.
- Fitting: you receive your first aligners and learn how to wear and clean them.
- Progress: you switch to new aligners on schedule and come in for check-ins.
- Finish: you get retainers to hold your teeth in place.
Cost, insurance and financing
Invisalign cost depends on how much your teeth need to move and how long treatment takes. You get a written estimate before you start — see dental prices for our published fees and what affects Invisalign cost. Some PPO plans have orthodontic benefits, often with a lifetime maximum; see insurance. We accept Cherry, Sunbit and CareCredit for patient financing (see financing options), and you can use an FSA or HSA card for dental treatment.
Recovery and aftercare
Each new set of aligners may feel tight for a day or two. Brush before putting aligners back in, rinse them, and keep them in their case when they’re out. Wear retainers as directed after treatment, or teeth tend to drift back. If you’re finishing braces instead, see how long braces removal takes. See clear aligner care.
Alternatives
| Option | Best for | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Invisalign | Mild to moderate crowding or spacing in adults | Here |
| Braces | Complex crowding, bite problems, many teens | We refer you to an orthodontist |
| Bonding | Small gaps or uneven edges | Here, usually one visit |
| Veneers | Shape and color changes on front teeth | Here; enamel removed |
When to call us
Call us if an aligner cracks or no longer fits, an attachment comes off, or a tooth stays sore for more than a few days. Call (832) 612-2831 — we’re open Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday, 9am–3pm.
Why patients in Richmond choose us
- Honest advice, including referral to an orthodontist when braces are the better choice
- Teeth and gums checked before treatment starts
- Exam and plan from our dentists, including Dr. Harsh Patel, with a written estimate before treatment
- Saturday check-ins available
Related guides
- Invisalign vs. braces: which is right for you?
- How much does Invisalign cost in Richmond, TX?
- Can you get braces with a crown?
- Is brushing teeth once a day enough to remove plaque?
Frequently asked questions
No. We don’t place braces; for braces we refer you to an orthodontist.
Most of the day and night. Aligners only work while they’re in, so take them out only to eat, drink anything other than water, and clean your teeth.
We focus on adults. For teens, an orthodontist can compare braces and aligners and track growth.
Yes. Teeth tend to shift back without retainers, so wear them as directed.
Often, yes. Teeth with crowns and fillings can still move. We check them at the exam, and decay is treated first.
Call us. Depending on where you are in treatment, we may have you wear the previous or next set until a replacement arrives.