Invisalign® in Lititz, PA

Invisalign® is the clear way to straighten crooked teeth.

Crooked teeth can make patients feel self-conscious about their smile. A cosmetic dental concern, crooked teeth may also impact your oral health. Straightening crooked teeth can improve your self-confidence and dental wellness, but many adult patients feel embarrassed about wearing traditional metal braces.

Invisalign® in Lititz, PA, is a clear and discreet way to realign crooked teeth. Dr. John and Sara Gotwalt offer Invisalign® clear aligners for teen and adult patients looking for a practically invisible way to straighten their crooked teeth.

How Invisalign® Works

Invisalign gradually shifts teeth into alignment through a series of custom-designed aligners. Using the state-of-the-art Invisalign® digital technology, Dr. Gotwalt takes images of your teeth and gums. These images are used to create a series of aligners made from a hard-soft plastic. The aligners fit snugly against the teeth, allowing patients to speak normally while wearing their aligners. The soft material reduces discomfort or injury to the soft tissues.

Patients typically wear each set of aligners for two weeks. Treatment times will vary depending on the degree of orthodontic issues. Dr. Gotwalt will outline each patient’s specific treatment guidelines on a personal basis. Strict compliance with wearing the aligners is critical for successful treatment.

Invisalign® vs. Traditional Braces: Making the Right Choice

Many patients wonder whether Invisalign® or traditional braces are the better option for their orthodontic needs. Invisalign offers significant advantages, including a virtually invisible appearance, easy removal for eating and cleaning, and greater comfort without metal brackets or wires that can irritate soft tissues. Traditional braces may be recommended for severe bite issues, complex orthodontic problems, or patients who may struggle with aligner compliance. Dr. Sara Gotwalt will evaluate your specific case during your consultation to recommend the most effective treatment option for achieving your ideal smile.

Who Qualifies for Invisalign® Treatment?

Invisalign® clear aligners can successfully treat a wide range of orthodontic issues for both teens and adults. Dr. Sara Gotwalt evaluates each patient individually to determine if Invisalign® is the right solution.

Ideal candidates are:

• Responsible teens and adults who can commit to 20-22 hours daily wear
• Patients with good oral health and healthy gums
• Those seeking discreet orthodontic treatment
• Individuals with most permanent teeth erupted (for teens)\

Invisalign® may not be suitable for:

• Severe bite misalignments or complex jaw positioning problems
• Patients with untreated gum disease or active tooth decay
• Those who cannot commit to consistent wear schedules

Schedule a consultation with us at our Lititz office to determine if you’re a candidate for Invisalign® treatment.

Step-by-Step Invisalign® Treatment Process

Your Invisalign® journey typically takes 12-18 months from start to finish, though treatment time varies based on individual needs. Our dentists guide Lititz, PA, patients through each phase of the process to ensure optimal results.

1. Initial Consultation (Week 1): Dr. Gotwalt examines your teeth, discusses your smile goals, and determines if Invisalign® is right for you.
2. Digital Scanning and Treatment Planning (Week 2): We capture precise 3D images of your teeth using advanced technology and create your personalized treatment plan, including a preview of your future smile.
3. Custom Aligner Fabrication (Weeks 3-4): Your custom aligners are manufactured based on your digital scans, with each set designed to gradually shift your teeth into ideal positions.
4. Treatment Begins (Week 5): You’ll receive your first set of aligners and detailed care instructions. Most patients wear each set for two weeks before switching to the next.
5. Progress Check-ins (Every 6-8 Weeks): Regular appointments allow Dr. Gotwalt to monitor your progress and provide your next series of aligners.
6. Completion and Retention (Months 12-18): After wearing your final aligner, you’ll be fitted with retainers to maintain your beautiful new smile.

Benefits of Invisalign®

Invisalign® aligners provide patients with many short and long-term benefits. Invisalign aligners allow for improved oral health, straighter teeth, and a more confident smile—all without the need for bulky, painful braces.

Benefits of Invisalign® clear aligners include:

• Removable: Invisalign® aligners are removable. This allows patients to remove their aligner for thorough brushing and flossing. Patients who wear Invisalign are less likely to develop tooth decay or tooth discoloration, which is often associated with traditional metal braces. Aligners can also be removed while eating, so patients may enjoy a diet without restriction during their treatment.
• Clear: The innovative plastic used to design Invisalign® aligners is virtually invisible. The translucent material sits snugly on the teeth and can be barely visible to anyone else. Patients can maintain their daily professional and personal interactions with confidence.
• Comfortable: The hard-soft plastic used to make Invisalign® aligners is gentle on the soft tissues in the oral cavity. Patients experience less swelling, bleeding, and general discomfort associated with metal braces.
• Effective: When appropriately worn for the recommended time, Invisalign® aligners can be highly effective. Invisalign® can address crooked teeth and minor malocclusion and can close gaps between teeth. Patients enjoy a straighter, beautiful, natural-looking smile for years.

Invisalign® Cost Considerations in Lititz, PA

The cost of Invisalign® treatment in Lititz, PA, typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on the complexity of your case and treatment duration. Factors that influence cost include the number of aligners needed, the length of treatment, and the severity of orthodontic issues being corrected.

Dr. John and Sara Gotwalt provide transparent pricing during your consultation and work with patients to explore payment plans and insurance coverage options that make Invisalign® accessible and affordable.

Tips for Invisalign® Success

Achieving the best results with your Invisalign® treatment requires consistent care and proper habits. Dr. Sara Gotwalt provides patients with essential guidelines to ensure successful treatment and optimal results.

Wear Time Compliance

The most critical factor for Invisalign® success is wearing your aligners for 20-22 hours per day. Remove aligners only for eating, drinking anything other than water, and cleaning your teeth. Consistent wear time ensures your teeth move according to the treatment plan and prevents delays in achieving your desired results.

Proper Cleaning and Maintenance

Clean your aligners daily with lukewarm water and a soft toothbrush to prevent bacteria buildup and odors. Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic, and always brush and floss your teeth before reinserting aligners to maintain optimal oral health. Store aligners in their protective case when not in use to prevent loss or damage.

Diet and Lifestyle Adjustments

While you can eat whatever you want with Invisalign®, always remove aligners before consuming food or beverages other than water. Drinking coffee, tea, or other colored beverages while wearing aligners can cause staining. Plan your meals and snacks to minimize the time aligners are out of your mouth, and always rinse your mouth before putting aligners back in.

Start Your Invisalign® Journey Today

Invisalign® clear aligners offer a discreet and effective solution for patients seeking to straighten crooked teeth without the inconvenience of traditional metal braces. Dr. John and Sara Gotwalt provide personalized Invisalign treatment plans designed to help you achieve a straighter, more confident smile while maintaining your professional and personal lifestyle. We’ll review all Invisalign® requirements during your consultation to ensure the treatment is right for you.

With proper care and compliance, our Invisalign in Lititz, PA, can transform crooked teeth into a beautiful, natural-looking smile that lasts for years. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and learn how Invisalign® can help you enjoy the confident smile you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign®

How much does Invisalign cost in PA?

Invisalign® treatment in Lititz, PA, typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on your individual case complexity and treatment duration. Dr. John and Sara Gotwalt provide detailed pricing during your consultation and can discuss payment plans and insurance options to fit your budget.

What is the 30-minute rule with Invisalign?

The 30-minute rule suggests limiting the time your aligners are out of your mouth to 30 minutes or less for meals and oral hygiene. This guideline helps ensure you meet the recommended 20-22 hours of daily wear time necessary for successful treatment results.

Can you brush Invisalign with a toothbrush?

Yes, you can and should brush your Invisalign® aligners daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water, which can warp the plastic, and never use toothpaste, as it can scratch and cloud the clear aligners.