Invisalign is an innovative approach to orthodontic care that uses a series of clear plastic aligners custom-designed to fit your mouth. Over time, these aligners move your teeth into proper alignment just like metal braces, but without the discomfort and inconvenience associated with traditional braces.

What is the Invisalign fitting procedure like?

Invisalign starts with an impression of your mouth using a special putty that preserves the position of your teeth. The impression is scanned by a computer and special software determines the series of shifts and movements your teeth need to make over time in order to achieve proper alignment. Based on that data, a series of aligners are created that you wear in sequence to move your teeth gently into their new positions.

How often will I need to change aligners?

In most cases, Invisalign aligners are changed about every two weeks as you go through treatment. Dr. Khoubnazar determines how often you'll change your aligners based on your oral health needs and ultimate aesthetic goals. While the length of time it takes to get your new smile varies, you can expect your Invisalign treatment to take about 12-18 months to move your teeth into proper position. Dr. Khoubnazar can determine the length of your treatment during your evaluation so you know what to expect.

Can I share my aligners?

No, your aligners are made specifically for your mouth, which is unique from anyone else's.

What are the benefits of Invisalign compared to metal braces?

Invisalign offers several important benefits compared to metal braces. Invisalign aligners can be removed when you eat and care for your teeth, making it much easier to brush and floss, and they can also be removed for social occasions when necessary. However, it's important to wear your aligners 20-22 hours a day. The smooth surfaces of Invisalign aligners lack the sharp wires of traditional braces, eliminating potential sore spots. Plus, even when in place, their clear design makes them virtually invisible.

Are dental implants painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the implant procedure, as it's performed under local anesthesia. Post-operative discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

How long do dental implants last?

With proper care, dental implants can last for many years, even a lifetime. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene are key to maintaining your implants.

What is the success rate of dental implants?

Dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%. Factors like oral health, bone density, and proper aftercare play a role in the long-term success of the procedure.

Can anyone get dental implants?

Most people with missing teeth are candidates for dental implants, but those with certain conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or advanced gum disease may need special consideration. A consultation with your dentist will help determine if implants are right for you.

How do I care for dental implants?

Dental implants require the same care as natural teeth—brushing twice a day, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. Proper care is essential for the longevity of your implants.

How long does the dental implant process take?

The process varies depending on individual cases, but typically it takes a few months from implant placement to final restoration, as the implant needs time to integrate with the bone fully.

Invisalign in Santa Monica, CA

Straighten Your Smile Discreetly with Invisalign

Braces are no longer your only option for achieving a straighter, healthier smile. At Smiles Santa Monica Cosmetic and General Dentistry, Dr. Sanaz Khoubnazar, DMD, offers Invisalign clear aligner treatment as a comfortable, virtually invisible alternative to traditional metal braces. Whether you are dealing with crowded teeth, gaps, or a misaligned bite, Invisalign can help you reach your smile goals without brackets or wires.

Invisalign is suitable for both teens and adults and can address a wide range of orthodontic concerns. Schedule your consultation today to find out if Invisalign is the right option for you.

If you have ever wished that your smile were whiter and brighter, teeth whitening might be right for you. Through professional teeth whitening, we can lighten staining and discoloration caused by various factors, such as:

The natural aging process
Poor dental hygiene habits
Consumption of certain drinks and foods, including tea, wine, coffee, and soda
Smoking and other forms of tobacco use
Illness
Certain medications
Fluorosis

Our dentist will work with you to determine the right type of treatment and treatment length to achieve the smile aesthetic you desire. To learn more about professional teeth whitening and to set up your consultation at our office, please call us today.

What Can Invisalign Treat?

Invisalign is effective for correcting a broad range of alignment and bite issues in both teens and adults. Dr. Khoubnazar can use Invisalign to address:

Crowded teeth
Gapped teeth
Overbite
Underbite
Crossbite
Open bite
Mild to moderate bite misalignment

During your consultation, Dr. Khoubnazar will evaluate your teeth and bite to determine whether Invisalign can achieve your goals or whether an alternative treatment may be more appropriate.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic system that uses a series of custom-made, removable clear plastic aligners to gradually shift your teeth into their ideal positions. Each set of aligners is worn for about one to two weeks before being replaced with the next set in the series. Over time, your teeth move progressively toward the desired result.

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are:

Nearly invisible when worn, so most people will not notice you are undergoing treatment
Removable, allowing you to eat, drink, brush, and floss without restriction
Smooth and comfortable, with no metal brackets or wires to irritate your mouth
Custom fitted using digital impressions for a precise, personalized fit

How Does Invisalign Work?

The Invisalign process at The Smile in Santa Monica is straightforward and designed to be as convenient as possible for busy patients.

Step 1: Consultation

Your first step is a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Khoubnazar. She will examine your teeth, review your dental history, and discuss the smile outcomes you are hoping to achieve. Digital scans or impressions of your teeth will be taken at this stage.

Step 2: Custom Treatment Plan

Using the digital scans, a precise 3D treatment plan is developed that maps out the movement of your teeth from their current positions to their final, corrected positions. You will be able to see a preview of your projected results before treatment even begins.

Step 3: Receiving Your Aligners

Once your custom aligners are ready, you will receive your first sets and instructions on how to wear and care for them. Aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day for the best results, and each set is typically worn for one to two weeks before moving on to the next.

Step 4: Progress Checkups

You will visit Smiles Santa Monica Cosmetic and General Dentistry periodically throughout your treatment so Dr. Khoubnazar can monitor your progress, make any necessary adjustments, and provide your next sets of aligners. These visits are typically brief and straightforward.

Step 5: Retainers and Final Results

Once you have completed your aligner series, you will transition to retainers to maintain your new smile. Retainers are worn at night and help prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions.

Benefits of Choosing Invisalign at Smiles Santa Monica Cosmetic and General Dentistry

Virtually invisible: Clear aligners are discreet enough for professional and social settings
Comfortable to wear: Smooth plastic aligners eliminate the irritation associated with metal brackets and wires
Removable for eating and hygiene: No dietary restrictions and no changes to your brushing and flossing routine
Predictable results: Digital treatment planning gives you a clear picture of your expected outcome before you begin
Fewer office visits than traditional braces: Checkups are quick and efficient
Suitable for teens and adults: Invisalign offers options tailored to different age groups and lifestyles
Improved oral health: Straighter teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease

Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces

Both Invisalign and traditional braces are effective orthodontic treatments, but they differ in several important ways. Here is a quick comparison to help you understand the key differences:

Appearance

Invisalign aligners are made from clear plastic and are nearly invisible when worn. Traditional braces use metal or ceramic brackets and wires that are visible on the teeth.

Comfort

Invisalign aligners are smooth and custom-fitted, which reduces the likelihood of irritation to the gums and cheeks. Braces can sometimes cause discomfort due to brackets and wires, especially after adjustments.

Removability

Invisalign aligners are fully removable, making it easy to eat any foods you like and maintain your normal oral hygiene routine. Braces are fixed in place for the duration of treatment.

Treatment Duration

Treatment times vary by case. Invisalign can often achieve results in 12 to 18 months for mild to moderate cases, while more complex orthodontic issues may take longer with either option. Dr. Khoubnazar will give you a personalized estimate during your consultation.

Candidacy

Invisalign is an excellent choice for mild to moderate alignment issues in teens and adults. Traditional braces may be recommended for more complex orthodontic cases. Dr. Khoubnazar will help you determine the right fit for your needs.

Start Your Invisalign Journey Today

A straighter, more confident smile may be closer than you think. Dr. Khoubnazar and the team at Smiles Santa Monica Cosmetic and General Dentistry are here to guide you through every step of your Invisalign treatment. Call us at (310) 829-0808 or book your consultation online to get started.

Why Choose The Smiles Santa Monica Cosmetic and General Dentistry for Invisalign

Experienced and caring provider, Dr. Sanaz Khoubnazar, DMD
Personalized treatment plans using digital scanning and 3D planning technology
Comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry under one roof
Patient-focused care in a warm and welcoming Santa Monica practice
Convenient location at 2915 Santa Monica Blvd., Suite 3, Santa Monica, CA 90404
Flexible appointment hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 am to 4 pm, and Friday, 8 am to 2 pm

Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign

What is Invisalign and how does it work?

Invisalign is a clear aligner system that uses a series of custom-made, removable plastic trays to gradually shift your teeth into their correct positions. Each set of aligners is worn for one to two weeks before progressing to the next set. Over the course of treatment, your teeth move incrementally toward the desired result.

Is Invisalign as effective as traditional braces?

Yes, for mild to moderate orthodontic cases, Invisalign can be just as effective as traditional braces. It is suitable for correcting crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. Dr. Khoubnazar will evaluate your case during a consultation to confirm whether Invisalign can achieve your goals.

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

Treatment length varies depending on the complexity of each case. Most patients complete Invisalign treatment within 12 to 18 months. Some mild cases may be resolved more quickly, while more complex alignment issues may take longer. Dr. Khoubnazar will provide a personalized timeline at your consultation.

How many hours a day do I need to wear my aligners?

For the best results, aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day. They can be removed for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing. Consistent wear is one of the most important factors in achieving your projected outcome on schedule.

Will Invisalign affect my speech?

Some patients notice a slight change in their speech during the first few days of wearing a new set of aligners, as their tongue adjusts to the trays. This typically resolves quickly, and most patients find that any change is barely noticeable to others.

Is Invisalign painful?

Invisalign is generally more comfortable than traditional braces. Some patients experience mild pressure or tenderness when switching to a new set of aligners, which is a sign that the teeth are moving as intended. This discomfort is typically temporary and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief if needed.

Can I eat and drink normally while using Invisalign?

Yes. Because Invisalign aligners are removable, you can take them out before eating or drinking anything other than plain water. There are no food restrictions with Invisalign. Simply remove your aligners, enjoy your meal, brush your teeth, and reinsert them.

How do I keep my Invisalign aligners clean?

Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water every time you remove them. You can clean them gently with a soft toothbrush and a small amount of clear, unscented soap. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the plastic. Invisalign also offers cleaning crystals and a specialized cleaning system that you can use for a more thorough clean.

Is Invisalign suitable for teenagers?

Yes, Invisalign offers a version specifically designed for teens called Invisalign Teen. It includes features such as compliance indicators to help ensure aligners are worn for the recommended time each day, as well as replacement aligners in case any are lost. Dr. Khoubnazar will assess whether Invisalign Teen is appropriate for your child during a consultation.

What happens after Invisalign treatment is complete?

Once you finish your final aligner, Dr. Khoubnazar will fit you with retainers to maintain your newly straightened smile. Retainers are typically worn at night and prevent your teeth from gradually shifting back to their original positions. Wearing your retainer as directed is an important part of preserving your results long term.

All your dental needs in one place

Skilled in all areas of dental care, the Center’s staff focuses on proactive, preventive care aimed at identifying problems in their earliest stages when treatment is much simpler and far less costly. Regular checkups include thorough evaluations of the teeth, gums and other soft tissues of the mouth, as well as an evaluation of bite mechanics and alignment to uncover issues no matter where they occur.

ORAL SURGERY

PREVENTION

ENDODONTICS

ROUTINE EXAMS

TEETH CLEANING

Invisalign in Santa Monica, CA

Straighten Your Smile Discreetly with Invisalign

What Can Invisalign Treat?

What Is Invisalign?