Your smile has a big impact on your appearance. If you are unhappy with your teeth, there are a few ways to make changes. Braces are a great way to deal with misaligned or crooked teeth and any bite problems that you may have. There are various types of braces to choose from ranging from traditional metal braces to lingual braces. One option that has been gaining in popularity in recent years is Invisalign. Invisalign uses clear plastic trays to gradually move your teeth into alignment. But is this treatment right for you? Here are three things to know.

How Invisalign Works

The first thing that you should know is how Invisalign works. Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners to align your teeth over time. These aligners must be worn 20 to 22 hours per day but can be removed to eat and drink and for brushing and flossing your teeth. A new set of aligners will be worn every one to two weeks and check ups are typically needed every six to eight weeks. Compared to other types of braces, Invisalign is virtually undetectable and doesn't interfere as much with your everyday life.

How Much Invisalign Costs

Another thing that you should be aware of before deciding to go with Invisalign is how much it costs. The cost will vary depending on the complexity of your treatment and how long your treatment will take. On average you can expect to pay between $3,000 and $8,000 for your Invisalign treatment. Many orthodontists offer payment plans for your treatment. Some dental insurance policies may cover a portion of the cost of your treatment, but typically it won't be much.

How Long Treatment Will Take

If Invisalign is the right treatment for your orthodontic needs, you may want to know how long treatment will take. This will vary depending on the complexity of your case as well as how often you wear your aligner trays and follow your orthodontist's instructions. Treatment time on average is between 12 and 18 months in total but some may see results sooner. It's important to discuss how long treatment will take with your orthodontist before deciding on Invisalign treatment. Once your treatment is finished, you will need to wear a retainer in order to keep your teeth aligned.

If you are thinking about Invisalign, there are a few key things to know. First, knowing how this treatment works can help you determine whether or not it's for you. Costs vary but typically range between $3,000 and $8,000. Treatment also typically takes between 12 and 18 months in total.