Key Takeaways
- Our consultations are approximately 60 minutes in order to have the appropriate time for you to express your concerns and to gather the proper diagnostic information to explain the issues, with no pressure to decide that day.
- A digital 3D scan can be used instead of traditional putty impressions and typically takes only a few minutes.
- Depending on your consultation and treatment planning process, you may be able to see a simulation of the proposed tooth movements, for example a before and after visualization.
- Though treatment varies between individuals, many cases range from 12 to 18 months, with aligners worn 20 to 22 hours daily.
- Fees, dental benefits, and payment options can be reviewed during the visit.
Many people have thought about straightening their teeth for years, but between work, travel, and other commitments, committing to a treatment like Invisalign® can feel overwhelming. At Cooper Dental, we are here to walk you through the entire process, listen to your goals, and make sure you have the information you need to decide what works for you.
Our Invisalign® consultations are relaxed, information-gathering visits where your dentist reviews your oral health, discusses what you would like to change, takes a digital scan of your teeth, and walks you through timelines and costs so you can choose what fits your schedule.
Why a Consultation Matters
The first appointment is an opportunity to ask questions, understand your options, and determine whether Invisalign® is appropriate for your goals. You can ask your dentist about wear time or how aligners could fit into your daily life. The consultation gives you the information you need to consider your options.
If you are coming for a consultation, we recommend planning to be in our office for approximately 60 minutes. This gives our team time to look closely at your teeth and gums, listen to what matters to you, and build the foundation for a plan shaped around your mouth and your routine rather than a general template.
The Exam & Smile Goals Conversation
Your Dental History & Oral Health Check
The visit starts with an assessment of your teeth, gums, and bite. If you wore braces as a teenager or tried aligners years ago, we may discuss that too, since it could help shape the plan. Our team can review any existing oral health concerns before aligner treatment begins and determine whether they need to be addressed first, such as a decayed or a broken tooth.
Your Cosmetic Smile Goals
Your smile goals are an important part of the consultation. Maybe your lower front teeth have shifted closer together over the years, or a gap has widened, or your bite doesn’t line up the way it once did. It is important to discuss your individual smile goals, as another treatment may be better suited to what you are looking for.
Our team also discusses what Invisalign® may be able to address and what limitations to expect based on your individual case.
Digital Scans & Your Smile Preview
Digital scanning eliminates the need for traditional putty impressions in many cases. Instead, a handheld scanner captures detailed images of your teeth and creates a three-dimensional digital model.
From there, you may be able to see a simulation of how your teeth may move through treatment. For some patients, seeing the proposed progression on screen can make the treatment plan easier to visualize.
Facial photographs also aid in identifying the issues and allow an opportunity for in depth review.
Your Treatment Plan, Timeline & Costs
How Long Treatment May Take
Many cases range from 12 to 18 months, though yours depends on what needs to move and how far. You may switch to a new set of aligners about every 1 to 2 weeks, with progress appointments scheduled at intervals recommended by your dental team.
Daily Wear Expectations
Invisalign® aligners are worn 20 to 22 hours a day and should only be removed for meals, drinking beverages other than water, and brushing your teeth. Consistency shapes your results throughout the process. Wearing your aligners as prescribed is important for keeping treatment progressing as planned.
Fees, Insurance & Payment Options
Cost varies with how complex your case is. Your dentist can provide a personalized treatment estimate based on your clinical assessment and proposed treatment plan.
We want to make dental care accessible for everyone’s budget. Our team can work with you to discuss any dental benefits you have, total treatment cost, and financing options.
What Comes Next?
After You Decide to Move Forward
Once your treatment plan is approved, your custom aligners will be ordered. Your dental team will let you know when they are ready. At your next appointment, your team will check the fit of your aligners and review how to wear, clean, and store them. After that, progress visits are booked at intervals that fit your schedule.
Cooper Dental Patient: Before & After Invisalign
Before Invisalign
After Invisalign
Book Your Consultation Today
If you are looking for a straighter, more confident smile, a consultation with your dentist in downtown Calgary is an excellent place to start. Book your Invisalign® consultation at Cooper Dental today, and see what your new smile could look like.
