Your Invisalign Questions Answered: Flagstaff Dentist Breaks It Down

Invisalign has quickly become one of the most popular ways to achieve a straighter smile, without the wire and brackets of traditional braces. At Cedar Avenue Family Dentistry, we understand that making decisions about orthodontic care is personal, and it's important that you feel confident and well-informed every step of the way.

That's why Dr. Madison Kurz and Dr. Kevin Chittenden, our husband and wife dental team, are here to answer your most common Invisalign questions and help you determine if this subtle, high-tech solution is right for you.

What Is Invisalign and How Does It Work?

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners to gradually shift your teeth into place. Unlike metal braces, these aligners are nearly invisible, removable, and often more comfortable for patients of all ages. 

The aligners are designed using advanced imaging technology to ensure a perfect fit for your unique smile, and you’ll switch to new aligners about every two weeks as your smile progresses. Here’s how the process works:

• Initial Consultation: We evaluate your teeth and determine if Invisalign is a good fit for your needs and goals.
• Digital Impressions: No messy putty here, our team uses precise digital scanning to create a 3D image of your mouth.
• Custom Aligners: Based on your scan, a series of aligners is created and worn for 20–22 hours a day.
• Switching Between Aligners: Each set is worn for about two weeks, then you’ll switch to a new set to keep your teeth moving.
• Ongoing Monitoring: You’ll visit our office every 6-8 weeks so we can track your progress, give you a few more sets of aligners, and make sure everything is moving as planned.

Is Invisalign Right for Me?

Many people assume Invisalign is only for minor alignment issues, but that’s simply not the case. At Cedar Avenue Family Dentistry, we’ve used Invisalign to treat a range of concerns, from mild crowding to more complex bite issues, while keeping patients comfortable and confident throughout the journey. Invisalign may be a great choice if you experience:

• Overcrowded or too-spaced teeth
• Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
• Previous orthodontic treatment that has relapsed
• A desire for a discreet, flexible alternative to braces

Teenagers and adults alike often appreciate the lifestyle-friendly aspects of Invisalign. For example, there are no dietary restrictions, and maintaining oral hygiene is easier than with traditional braces. If you're unsure whether you're a candidate, Dr. Kurz and Dr. Chittenden are happy to assess your needs and explain your options during a one-on-one consultation.

How Long Does Invisalign Take and What Can I Expect?

The average treatment time with Invisalign ranges from 12 to 18 months, though you may start to see visible improvements within just a few weeks. Every case is unique, so your timeline will depend on the complexity of your smile goals and how consistently you wear your aligners. Here's what to expect during your Invisalign journey:

• Wearing Aligners: Aligners should be worn 20-22 hours a day, only removed for eating, drinking (except for tap or bottled water), brushing, and flossing.
• Minimal Discomfort: You may feel slight pressure when starting a new set of aligners, but it's generally far less noticeable than traditional braces discomfort.
• Check-Ins: Routine visits are quick and easy, often every 6-8 weeks, to keep your progress on track.
• No Surprises: Thanks to digital treatment planning, you can see a visual roadmap of how your smile will change over time.

Why Choose Cedar Avenue Family Dentistry for Invisalign?

Beyond our warm, patient-first atmosphere, what truly sets our practice apart is our holistic and relationship-driven approach to dental care. Dr. Madison Kurz and Dr. Kevin Chittenden bring over 50 years of combined service to the local community and deliver Invisalign treatment with precision, experience, and a genuine desire to see you smile with confidence.

Our dental office uses cutting-edge digital technology, including same-day crown options and advanced imaging tools, to create a streamlined, customized Invisalign experience from start to finish. Whether you're visiting us for Invisalign, CEREC crowns, or family cleanings, expect to be treated with kindness, transparency, and the same care we’d give our own family.

Ready to Start Invisalign in Flagstaff?

Still have questions about Invisalign? We love educating and empowering patients to make informed decisions. Our team will take the time to listen and guide you through every step of the process. So if you’re ready to explore how Invisalign can transform your smile, we welcome you to book a consultation at Cedar Avenue Family Dentistry in Flagstaff.

Give us a call at (928) 774-3851 or request an appointment online today. Let Dr. Kurz and Dr. Chittenden help you take the first step toward a brighter, straighter smile, with all the comfort and care you deserve.