5 Advantages Impressions Aligners Have Over Braces

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Looking to finally fix those crooked teeth and get that perfect smile you have always dreamed of, but not sure if traditional braces or invisible braces is the right option for you? Is one faster than the other? Which option will put a bigger dent in my wallet?

Choosing to go with Impressions invisible braces or traditional braces can be a difficult decision for anyone thinking about straightening their teeth. However, it doesn’t have to be. Here are some great reasons why you should consider using Impressions over metal braces to help you achieve a brilliant smile with beautifully straight teeth.

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1) They’re Practically Invisible

Did we mention Impressions invisalign braces are nearly invisible while you are wearing them? That’s right! One of the main reasons many people decide to go with Impressions over traditional braces is the fact that they are not very visible when on your teeth. You can be straightening your teeth without people even knowing it.

This is particularly appealing for adults. The thought of your co-workers, friends, and family seeing you with a mouth full of metal braces can be extremely embarrassing. Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about that with Impressions. With proper care and maintenance your Impressions aligners will stay clear and people will hardly be able to tell you are wearing them.

The Impressions system of aligners come in clean, clear sets that are replaced every one to two weeks. The quick replacement of these aligners helps maintain the clear appearance of the aligners, keeping them from being easily seen and allowing you to feel confident in your smile while the aligners straighten your teeth.

2) Monthly Visits Aren’t Necessary

Nobody wants to go to the orthodontist more than they absolutely have to, but sometimes though dental visits are necessary. This is especially true with traditional metal braces. The wires used in metal braces can sometimes bend or break and only an orthodontist is able to repair them. You’re also expected to come in for monthly progress visits when you’re straightening your teeth with metal braces.

Fortunately with Impressions invisible braces, you won’t have to make that monthly visit to the orthodontist. You will get sent a new set of Impressions aligners every one to two weeks to help maintain the adjustment of your teeth. However, if you lose or damage your aligners and need a replacement sooner they can be sent to you via the mail.

While your orthodontist may want to schedule a visit at some point during your treatment to check how your teeth are coming along, progress can mainly be monitored remotely. This makes multiple office visits unnecessary, saving you time and money over the course of your treatment.

3) They’re Significantly Cheaper!

As if avoiding personal embarrassment and saving time weren’t enough, you can also save money by straightening your teeth with Impressions aligners. On average, Impressions invisible braces cost less than the price of metal braces or traditional Invisalign.

The average cost of metal braces is typically between $4,000 to $7,000, and traditional Invisalign will usually run between $5,000 to $6,800. Yikes! That’s quite a lot of money. However, with Impressions aligners the cost is around $3,480. You could be paying less for great results, without the hassle of metal braces.

On top of being a cheaper alternative to metal braces, a portion of the cost for impressions is typically covered by dental insurance. Dental insurance plans that cover Invisalign will also cover Impressions for around $500 to $1,500.

4) You Can Take Them Out When You Need To

One of the best advantages Impressions invisible braces has over traditional metal braces is the ability to take them out whenever you need to. With metal braces, the brackets are permanently affixed to your teeth during the treatment process. The only way to remove them is to have your orthodontist take them off once your teeth have been straightened.

Fortunately, this is not the case with Impressions. Impressions aligners are easy to take put and place back in. While you should wear our clear plastic aligners for the majority of time during your treatment, they can be taken out when necessary such as when you want to eat.

This means you can continue to eat the way you did before getting Impressions which is not true for metal braces. With metal braces, you have to avoid foods that may stick in the wires and brackets. This can cause dental hygiene problems.

However, with Impressions you should eat a bit faster to make sure the aligners are not off for a long period, but you can continue to eat your favorite meals. Just be sure to clean and brush your teeth and aligners after eating or drinking anything other than water.

5) Shorter Treatment Time

And the icing on the cake that is Impressions aligners is a shorter treatment time than traditional metal braces. That means you can avoid having obtrusive metal braces and still straighten your teeth with magnificent results and far less time.

For most patients opting to straighten their teeth with traditional metal braces, treatment can last up to 2 years. And since metal braces are on all day, everyday, you would have metal in your mouth for around two years. This is also one of the reasons traditional braces cost more than Impressions. Longer treatment means more office visits which means more money out of your pocket.

However, the average treatment time for Impressions aligners is only 6 to 9 months. That is less than half the average treatment time of traditional braces! This means you will be making less trips to the dentist, especially since progress is mainly monitored at home, and attain a nice straight smile much faster than if you used metal braces.

Schedule a Complimentary Impressions Consultation

Let’s face it, Impressions aligners are an amazing and affordable alternative to traditional metal braces. You can get high quality results from your Impressions aligners in less time, be making fewer trips to the dentist, and pay less money. With such great advantages why wouldn’t you want to go with Impressions aligners?

If you have been thinking about straightening your teeth and want to avoid the hassles and embarrassment of metal braces, Impressions may be just the thing for you. Contact us today at (844) 846-8836 to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our board certified dentists. There is no better time than now to start your road to a perfect smile.

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Ten Things to Smile About this Holiday Season in Asheville

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Planning on spending the holidays in the beautiful mountain paradise of Asheville, North Carolina, but unsure of how to get into the festive spirit? Fear not! Asheville is teaming with holiday cheer and sights to behold.

We have compiled a list of holiday activities and attractions in Asheville that will leave you with a Christmas twinkle in your eye. Enjoy the splendid mountain views offered by the historic blue ridge parkway, view the dazzling displays offered by the Arboretum Christmas lights, or find that perfect hand crafted gift from a local shop. Asheville has everything you need to kick off your holidays the right way. Keep reading to learn more about these holiday mountain gems.

Christmas Lights at the NC Arboretum

Nothing says Christmas quite like a stunning, winter lights display and the NC Arboretum offers a light show you won’t want to miss! The Arboretum boasts one of the most impressive gardens in Western North Carolina, but when the holiday season rolls around, those gardens transform into a wondrous display of light and color.

With an eye towards artistic flare, 500,000 lights bring the Arboretum to life on cold winter nights! Behold fantastic light shows synchronized to your favorite holiday music at the quilt garden, complete with a 50-foot tall, animated christmas tree.

This winter wonderland is available for your viewing pleasure until January 4th, 2020. However, be sure to plan your leisurely stroll in advance and purchase tickets before arriving as some nights may get sold out. The Arboretum lights are open from 6-10PM.

The Omni Grove Park Inn

The Omni Grove Park Inn is one of Asheville’s most iconic destinations. With four amazing restaurants, massive stone fireplaces, and legendary hospitality, the Grove Park Inn is a perfect place to enjoy the holiday season in Asheville, whether you are an overnight guest or simply visiting for the day.

Oh, and did we forget to mention the Omni Grove Park Inn hosts the annual National Gingerbread House Competition? That’s right! As if the Grove Park Inn wasn’t enjoyable enough on its own, the inn hosts their gingerbread competition every year from late November to early January.

Visitors can enjoy incredible works of art, made entirely out of gingerbread and edible materials. The main floor of the hotel houses the competition winners, while many other displays can be found on the 7th floor.

Local Holiday Shopping

Asheville is well known for its local, handmade arts and crafts scene and this becomes even more apparent during the holiday season. Stroll the streets of downtown Asheville in search for the perfect holiday gift for the craft lover in your family.

From street stall vendors to local shops, explore the latest offerings by artists and designers from WNC. Whether you are looking for antiques, fashion, functional crafts, art, or bizarre oddities, you can find it all in the heart of this mountain town.

The Historic Biltmore Estate

Another historic jewel in Asheville’s crown is the Biltmore Estate. An incredible place to visit anytime of the year, the Biltmore house and grounds are a must see during the holiday season. The Biltmore offers an unforgettable holiday experience including candlelight tours, live music, and breathtaking decorations throughout the estate.

No occasion is too grand for this colossal, vintage, American house and the Christmas holidays are no exception. The grounds contain 500 wreaths and sprays, over 100 adorned trees, more than 25,000 ornaments, and 1.5 miles of fresh garlands. As if that weren’t enough the house contains 55 hand-decorated trees, poinciettas, and the famous 35-ft. Fraser fir in the Banquet Hall.

Holiday LaZoom Tour

Looking to inject a little (or should we say a lot) of fun energy into your holiday vacation? Look no further than the LaZoom bus tours. Grab a six-pack of your favorite local craft beer, jump on the big purple bus and be entertained as you enjoy LaZoom’s holiday comedy tour. Meet fun characters, learn interesting facts about Asheville’s history and pickup some new holiday traditions with this thrilling excursion.

Brewery Tours

Have we talked about craft beer yet? Asheville is known nationwide for its plethora of outstanding craft breweries. With 33 breweries in the city alone, from the original, Highland Brewery, to the new sensations, Burial Brewery, there is no shortage of options to explore for beer enthusiasts.

Feel overwhelmed from deciding what breweries to visit, let someone else do the thinking (and the driving) with one of Asheville’s brewery tours. Services, such as Asheville Brews Cruise or the Amazing Pubcycle, take you on a guided tour of local breweries, while allowing you to taste generous amounts of Asheville’s finest craft beers.

Polar Express Train

Just a short drive from Asheville, in the town of Bryson City, discover the unique holiday experience of the Polar Express train excursion. The 1.25 hour round-trip ride shuttles mystified guests from the Bryson City Depot to the heart of the North Pole, where Santa awaits. This magical train operates until the end of December, so be sure to catch a ride while you can!

Lake Julian Festival of Lights

Just South of Asheville, Lake Julian comes alive during the holiday season with a host of Christmas lights. A favorite for locals and tourists alike, enjoy a wonderful holiday lights show in this scenic recreational park. Take a walk under the lights or feel free to drive through an array of Christmas displays brought to vivid color and life.

Plan a Winter Hike

Asheville and Western North Carolina are home to some of the country’s most breathtaking and beautiful nature scenes to behold. Hidden throughout the forested mountains of the Blue Ridge are hikes leading to stunning views of mountains, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. Grab your loved ones, bundle up for the brisk winter air, put on your best hiking shoes, and depart on a journey into the great outdoors this winter.

Get Your Brightest Holiday Smile Ready

Want to get your smile looking its best for this year’s holiday postcard, but afraid dental care is too expensive? Impressions is here to help! We offer high quality orthodontic care under the supervision of highly skilled and attentive professionals, but with the affordability and ease associated with at-home dental care.

Want to brighten the room with a smile more dazzling than the star on your tree this holiday season? Book a consultation at one of our ImpressionsHubs today and get ready to light up your next holiday party.

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Networking Opportunity for WNC Entrepreneurs & Small Business Owners on 12/17!

At the ImpressionsHub, we’re all about the local community! That’s why we’re excited to be hosting our first Business Before Hours with the Asheville Chamber of Commerce. This is part of our Smile Local movement, which is going strong into 2020! BRO & Impressions’ Smile Local movement is all about supporting local businesses with intention and about nurturing the collaborative spirit in our local community. Check out our post from this summer for more info – our offer for free Smile Local car magnets still stands, too! We loved connecting and collaborating with so many awesome local businesses this year, and look forward to the new connections that Asheville Chamber’s Business Before Hours and other events in the coming year will bring.

Impressions’ Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners

Join us Tuesday, December 17th from 8:00-9:00am

Asheville Chamber’s Business Before Hours
at Blue Ridge Orthodontics
1915 Hendersonville Road, Asheville NC 28803

Asheville Chamber’s Business Before Hours is a great opportunity to connect with local business representatives who are dedicated to their community and fellow businesses. By joining the Chamber of Commerce, members of the organization demonstrate their support of the business climate and quality of life in Asheville. The Asheville Chamber is a partnership of over 1,700 businesses and organizations working together to build and strengthen our community through business.

The Chamber also offers members many opportunities to connect with peers, government officials and business leaders, provides relevant business information, and assistance advocating for their business. As Chamber members, businesses get increased credibility and visibility, discounted businesses expenses and access to invaluable workshops and seminars.

Networking Opportunity for WNC Entrepreneurs & Small Business Owners on 12/17! - Asheville Chamber's Business Before Hours at BRO

Blue Ridge Orthodontics, Impressions & the Asheville Chamber of Commerce

Without the Chamber of Commerce, Asheville wouldn’t be the amazing community it is today. Local businesses, including Blue Ridge Orthodontics and Impressions, are thriving. In fact, we’re excited to introduce the newest member of our practice, Dr. Jennifer Giltner, at our Business Before Hours event.

Dr. Giltner is our fourth associate for the Blue Ridge Orthodontics and Impressions team. We’ve come so far since opening our doors in 2007! It wasn’t until 2014 that we hired our first associate, but we have grown quickly since then. In 2015, BRO became a top Invisalign provider in all of North America. The very next year, we hired our second associate and began our Blue Star program to provide treatment to local families in need. In 2017, we opened our second and third offices in Brevard and Hendersonville, and opened our award winning new office in South Asheville.

In 2018, we launched Impressions to help WNC residents save over $3,000 on Invisalign treatment from the comfort of their homes! This year, BRO opened our new oral surgery department and launched WNC’s First Cleft Lip and Palate Team. All this growth wouldn’t have been possible without support from and partnership with our local community!

Networking Opportunity for WNC Entrepreneurs & Small Business Owners on 12/17! - Asheville Chamber's Business Before Hours at BRO

Super-Power your Business with the Asheville Chamber

Our Impressions family includes many WNC entrepreneurs and small business owners. If that’s you, we want to welcome you to our Asheville Chamber of Commerce Business Before Hours event on December 17th! Join us to connect with other Asheville area businesses and enjoy light breakfast refreshments provided by Biscuit Head. Don’t forget your business cards to share with connections and enter our door prize drawings! We would love to meet you, learn about your business and find out how we can work together to achieve great things in 2020!

RSVP below to attend Business Before Hours


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Addressing The Problem With At-Home Teeth Straightening Kits

Dear Asheville,

It’s time for us to have an important talk about at-home teeth straightening kits, one that we believe to be long overdue. At-home teeth straightening kits are growing in popularity at a rapid pace. With only a couple mouse clicks, virtually anyone can browse and purchase a multitude of options from different brands. In theory, this affords people the freedom to choose the best option for their needs; but in reality, it’s not quite that simple.

Straightening your teeth, whether at home or under the care of a dental professional, is a process that must be taken seriously and handled with care. You can really hurt your smile if your aligners aren’t cut out for the job, and not being able to consult a dental professional who is in tune with your teeth straightening journey can be nerve-wracking when your smile starts to shift in undesirable ways.

Our heart resides with Asheville and all of its wonderful denizens.

There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing your healthy, happy smiles on the way to and from work, and, of course, every day at Blue Ridge Orthodontics. It is with this in mind that we urge you to take this letter to heart, and choose wisely when selecting an at-home teeth straightening kit for your needs.

Remember, if you decide to try Impressions, our at-home take on traditional Invisalign, a local orthodontist from our office will be with you every step of the way.

An Inherently Flawed Process

When it comes to at-home teeth straightening kits, the line dividing the pros from the cons can be hard to pin down. This is because many of the processes required to size and fit aligners are inherently flawed. The most common process involves the use of photos and a dental impression kit. The impression kit is designed to provide the aligner company with a mold of your teeth, thus allowing them to create aligners that fit you perfectly. Unfortunately, this doesn’t always work as it should, and if you are unable to provide a suitable mold of your smile, you may be required to purchase an additional kit.

On the surface, it may seem like avoiding an extra visit to the orthodontist is a positive, but if it results in poorly fitting aligners that are unable to straighten your teeth, this aspect of at-home teeth straightening kits is clearly a negative. Some of the other common drawbacks of these kits include:

Lack of Supervision

Many at-home teeth straightening kits recommend that you visit a dental professional prior to fitting to see if you have other, underlying dental problems that may require a different treatment. Those who ignore this advice will have little supervision over the course of their treatment, which means an undiagnosed issue could become very problematic.

No Course Correction

What happens if your aligners aren’t doing their job? Will you be able to tell? Most people don’t know what to look for when checking to see if their aligners are working. This job is best left to an orthodontic professional. Unfortunately, most at-home teeth straightening kits don’t give you the luxury of visiting an orthodontist to ensure that your aligners are working. For some, this could lead to months of improper alignment use that significantly disrupts their path to a perfect smile.

Uncertainty

Another touted benefit of at-home teeth straightening kits is their ability to help you save on orthodontics costs. While this is true, you must also consider the value of peace of mind and knowing that your teeth are being aligned properly. On average, individuals will spend up to two years using aligners to correct their smiles — that’s a long time to be uncertain about the efficacy of your treatment. Fortunately, there are other options, such as Impressions, that straighten smiles faster (6-9 months on average) and pair the patient with an orthodontist.

Post-Treatment Costs

When an at-home teeth straightening kit fails, additional costs will be required to obtain the perfect smile. The economical price of at-home teeth straightening kits is arguably their greatest strength, but you could end up paying out of pocket for additional treatments if your aligners hinder your oral health. You can cut down on post-treatment costs by selecting an at-home option that also gives you access to an orthodontist.

Unreliable Help

When you need to consult a professional about your aligners, you may be distressed to find that your only option is an unreliable hotline. Your oral health is a serious matter that can’t be taken lightly. If you want access to professional help when you need it most, you will want to avoid at-home teeth straightening kits that don’t offer access to an in-person orthodontist who can answer your questions and address your concerns.

Higher Chance of Relapse

Studies indicate that short-term orthodontic treatments are less effective at combating crooked teeth than traditional options, like braces. Considering the fact that traditional teeth straightening methods involve an orthodontist throughout the treatment timeline, it’s understandable that methods that don’t require any form of direct interaction with a doctor would be less effective. Fortunately, some at-home teeth straightening kits do benefit from a fully realized doctor-patient relationship, which can result in superior outcomes. If you want to permanently straighten your smile, it helps to utilize a system that is designed to prevent relapse.

Safety Concerns

At-home teeth straightening kits are still relatively new to the market, and since there’s no dental professional monitoring your treatment, you can never be certain that your oral health is in tip-top shape. Improper use of aligners could lead to gum disease or tooth decay.

Why Impressions Is Different

Keeping it local is the Asheville way. Our city is a unique one, empowered by independence and driven by smiles. Over the years, Asheville has carved out a niche as one of the most popular destinations in the United States, largely because Asheville has so many great offerings that are only available in Asheville.

We are pleased to note that Impressions was created right here in Asheville for patients seeking an at-home orthodontics treatment that is safe, effective, and competitively priced. Impressions excels where other at-home kits falter because it addresses three primary concerns:

1) Quality of Assessment

Impressions utilizes a 3D iTero scan of the teeth to achieve highly accurate imaging. This helps to ensure that your aligners fit perfectly.

2) Quality of Product

Impressions is an offshoot of the Invisalign system, which means only the best materials are used when crafting your aligners. The last thing you want is a defective pair of aligners. We stand by our product proudly.

3) Quality of Care

The Impressions treatment was developed by a Diamond-level Invisalign provider. This assures the patient that they will have the best and most effective clear aligner treatment.

To see if you’re a candidate for Impressions, an at-home teeth straightening treatment option based out of Asheville, you can use this form.

Am I A Candidate

We’re happy to answer all of your questions pertaining to at-home teeth straightening and look forward to helping more of Asheville’s wonderful citizens obtain the smile they desire. More importantly, we hope to give you the information you need to make an informed decision about your oral health. If we can effect change for the City of Asheville, we’ve done our job.

Sincerely,

The Impressions Team

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How Long Do Braces Take To Straighten Teeth

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The path to a straight smile is unique for each and every person. Dental braces for adults are different than for children, but it is considered a highly effective teeth-straightening method.  That being said, many people believe that the window for correcting their smile closes at a young age. We’re happy to report that adults who want to straighten their teeth actually have several options in 2019. It’s never too late to correct your smile.

Am I A Candidate?

 

Why Braces Take Time To Straighten Teeth

Braces aren’t designed for immediate results. If you want to straighten your smile, you have to be patient and allow your teeth to shift gradually over time. With traditional metal braces, you will have to periodically visit your orthodontist so they can tighten the dental wire threaded through the brackets attached to your teeth. This ensures that your teeth are being aligned into the proper positions.

Your specific dental condition will also have an effect on how long it will take your braces to correct your smile. If you suffer from severe crowding, spacing issues, or biting issues, you can expect braces to take a little longer to complete the job. Just be patient and follow your orthodontist’s instructions, your new smile will need a little TLC before they’re ready for the world!

Brace Yourself for a Commitment

Think you’re ready for traditional braces? Keep in mind that wearing braces isn’t the only commitment you’re going to have to make. You’ll also have to pencil out some time in your schedule for appointments with your orthodontist. Plan in advance, because the average adult will have to wear their braces for 18 months to 3 years.

Here’s what you can expect:

Initial Consultation

Even if you’re ready for braces, you’ll still need your orthodontist’s “okay” before proceeding. A full assessment of your dental health, including a close examination of your alignment needs, will be used to determine which type of braces is right for you. Depending on your teeth, a tooth extraction may be required prior to braces too.

First Treatment

After your initial consultation, it’s time for you to be fitted for braces. In addition to fitting you for braces, your orthodontist will also cover a plethora of good oral hygiene practices to help you care for your braces. Pay close attention, as they will also teach you how to cope with the initial discomfort of wearing braces.

Follow-Up Appointments

Your orthodontist will request to see you regularly while your teeth are being straightened. These visits are crucial for keeping your treatment moving along at the proper pace, and you can ask your orthodontist any questions you may have pertaining to your treatment plan.

Removal of Braces

The day has finally arrived! Your teeth are now straight, which means your treatment is over and your braces can be removed by your orthodontist. Typically, she/he will advise you to wear a retainer for a few months to ensure that your teeth stay in alignment.

Cost of Braces

Unfortunately, braces for adults cost more than braces for children. Insurance may help offset some of the cost of braces, but it depends on your policy. You should be ready to spend, on average, between $5000 and $7000 for a perfect smile, but this figure could increase if your smile requires additional measures to correct.

There is some good news about the cost of braces — payment plans are available with some providers! You don’t need to worry about disrupting your financial situation to achieve a beautiful smile, but you should shop around and compare your options to find the right solution for you (and your budget).

Questions To Ask An Orthodontist

You want to establish a strong connection with your orthodontist so you feel comfortable interacting with them throughout your treatment. Attempting to straighten your smile can be a significant undertaking. You will have to face the fact that you’ll look different when wearing braces, your dental hygiene habits will need to be changed, and you may experience unfamiliar oral pains. Your orthodontist will help guide you through this process, providing a helping hand whenever you need it. We recommend getting your questions ready now so your first visit is informational, and perhaps, even a bit enlightening:

  • What is the best option for straightening my teeth?
  • How long will I have to wear braces?
  • What do I need to do to take care of my teeth while they’re on?
  • How frequently will I need to stop by for office visits?
  • How much will they cost?
  • Do you offer payment plans for this treatment?
  • Do you accept my insurance?
  • After getting them off, what are my next steps?

What Other Options Do You Have?

As we mentioned above, no two people follow the same path to a perfect smile. Your treatment depends on your teeth, your health, and your orthodontist’s professional opinion. In addition to traditional braces, here are some other ways adults can get their teeth straightened:

Ceramic Braces

Looking for a less noticeable alternative to regular braces? Ceramic braces better match the color of your teeth, making them harder to see than metal braces. However, it comes at a higher cost, too.

Clear Aligners

Want to avoid the wires and brackets of regular braces? Clear aligners use plastic trays that fit snugly over your teeth. They’re easy to remove, which makes eating, brushing, and flossing a breeze. Just make sure you don’t lose them! Some orthodontists believe that clear aligners are insufficient for those with large gaps between teeth.

Veneers

Although they don’t help straighten your smile, veneers can be utilized to make your smile look better. They are thin and resemble the color of real teeth. The layer that covers your teeth is made of porcelain, and they sit comfortably over your teeth. Veneers are typically used to cover small chipped, dull, or stained teeth. The only drawback is that your teeth still won’t be straight and your dentist may need to shave off part of a tooth if it proves problematic when placing your veneers.

Why You Should Consider Impressions Instead

If you need to correct crowded or crooked teeth, traditional braces are one of the most tried and true methods available. You can’t ignore the millions of people who have worn braces to help them achieve a superior smile. That said, you don’t necessarily need to utilize an option that covers up your smile and requires regular appointments for maintenance. If you want to straighten your smile without impairing that first impression, you should consider using Impressions in place of traditional braces.

Here’s the deal: the one main knock against clear aligners is the fact that you have to be responsible for them. They’re meant to be invisible, which means you have to make an effort to keep them clean, and you have to make a conscious effort to wear them if you want them to be effective! Traditional braces are fastened to your teeth, so you don’t have to worry about losing them, but you will have to commit yourself to a pretty strict regimen of in-office visits and oral hygiene.

Want to avoid regular orthodontist visits? Does the thought of you wearing metal braces make you cringe? We understand that everyone’s path to a perfect smile is different, but we’re here to say that Impressions can help you straighten your smile for nearly half the price of Invisalign. Call us today at (844) 846-8836 or fill out our form to request an appointment. We would be happy to walk you through what to expect from your Impressions consultation at the ImpressionsHub in Asheville.

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How To Straighten Uncentered Teeth When You Can’t Afford Braces

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Are you tired of the frustration of having a crooked smile? Many people are born with uncentered teeth and want an affordable option to help get them straightened. But what can you do if braces are just too expensive? Fortunately, braces are not the only available option to you anymore. With modern advances in orthodontics, cheaper and sometimes less noticeable options are out there. If you have been looking for a cheaper alternative to traditional braces than this is the article for you.

Adults Have A Lot Of Orthodontic Options in 2019

For adults who have struggled with having uncentered teeth and are ready to do something about, advances in cosmetic dentistry have opened up the options for treatment. Where once metal braces were thought of as the only method to attain that perfect smile, now there are several other options available. Each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

Invisalign

Invisalign has become one of the most popular methods of straightening teeth in recent years due to the discrete nature of the treatment. Through the use of clear aligners specially molded to fit your teeth, Invisalign can help straighten that crooked smile. And the best part is they can be easily removed for activities that metal braces complicate, such as eating and brushing your teeth. If you are interested in Invisalign, you will have to go in for an office visit to see if they are the right option for you.

Metal Braces

Metal braces are the most traditional orthodontic method for straightening teeth. This option does tend to be the cheapest option for adults looking to align their teeth. The downside is that metal braces are the most noticeable and can require a lot of care to keep clean.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces involve attaching the metal brackets behind your teeth, making them much less noticeable than traditional braces. They are usually affixed to the lower and upper front teeth and do not need to be removed during the course of treatment. Some other advantages to lingual braces are that they require less office visits and typically take around 12 to 24 weeks for to be effective.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces use a clear brackets or brackets colored to match your teeth. These tend to be preferred over metal brackets because they are a bit less noticeable and can be just as effective. There is a bigger risk of teeth staining with ceramic braces, but they can be faster at aligning teeth than other options.

A Cheaper Alternative to Invisalign

Although Invisalign is a very unnoticeable way to straighten your teeth, it is not always the most affordable option. However, there are cheaper options out there.

One cheaper option for straightening your teeth is teeth straightening kits. These kits can be used at home and do not require visiting a doctor to get your teeth scanned. With a home straightening kit, everything you need is sent by mail. They typically work by using the kit to take an impression of your own teeth, then the company you are using will use this impression to develop a treatment plan and send you aligners.

Home kits do carry the risk of not meeting with a trained dental professional in person to be evaluated. They can also rely on you taking a correct impression of your teeth on your own in order for treatment to work and aligners to fit correctly. Because of this, home kits are usually used for fairly mild cases.

Another alternative is contouring and bonding. This can help make your teeth appear straighter without actually altering their position in the gums. Contouring and bonding involves the use of composite material to build on some parts of the teeth while using a drill to take other parts of the teeth down.
One other cheap alternative to Invisalign are retainers. These can be much more affordable than braces or aligners. However, as with teeth straightening kits, this option is mainly used in mild cases.

Benefits of Getting Your Teeth Straightened

There are a multitude of benefits to having your teeth straightened. One of the biggest benefits being a greater sense of confidence in your smile. This can lead to an overall improved quality of life and might give you the confidence to apply for that dream job or talk to that person you’ve been wanting to, but were just too embarrassed because of your teeth.

Apart from the social and professional benefits of having straighter teeth, getting your teeth straighten can also have oral health benefits such as:

  • Healthier gums
  • Improved speech
  • Easier cleaning
  • Less wear and tear

What is the Average Cost of Orthodontics for Adults

The cost of orthodontics can vary greatly depending on what type of treatment you are thinking of getting.

Metal braces tend to be the cheapest form of brace orthodontics. They tend to range between $2,500-$7,500. Fortunately they are sometimes covered by state-funded insurance.

Invisalign does tend to be a bit more expensive than metal braces. Typically coming in around $3,500-$8,500. However, many adults find that the lack of visibility makes them worth spending a little extra.

Ceramic braces, while less noticeable than metal braces, can also be more expensive. This treatment option can range between $3,000-$10,000.

Lingual braces that go on the back side of the teeth are probably the least noticable bracket option. The downside is lingual braces can be very pricey. They tend to range between $5,000-$13,000.

Retainers are typically very affordable, coming in around $100-$750 per set. However, these are only used for mild cases.

Home kits can be a bit more affordable than metal braces or Invisalign. With a home kit you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,000.

Composite bonding can also be a cheap and fast fix, depending on how much you need done. Pricing usually ranges between $250-$1,200 per tooth.

What Are Your Financing Options with Impressions?

Interested in getting orthodontic treatment with Impressions, but not sure about the price? If you have dental insurance, it may be able to cover some of the cost of your orthodontic treatment, making it more affordable to you. You should first check to see if the orthodontist you want to go with accepts your insurance. If not, you may want to find another provider.

If you do not have insurance, there are still options out there for you. Talk with your orthodontist about setting up a payment plan to help spread the cost out over a longer period of time. Other options are the use of an FSA (Flexible Spending Account) or an HSA (Health Savings Account) to help afford orthodontic procedures, such as metal braces or Invisalign.

Conclusion

The days of braces being the only option for straightening teeth are behind us. If you have been considering getting your teeth straightened, Impressions is a great option! Call us today at (844) 846-8836 or fill out our form to request an appointment. We would be happy to walk you through what to expect from your Impressions consultation at the ImpressionsHub in Asheville.

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QUIZ: Who’s Your Celebrity Smile Twin?

Celebrities didn’t always have perfect smiles! Especially before they got famous, most celebrities didn’t have the means to “fix” their teeth. However, with recent advances in technology, a perfect smile is achievable for most people! Check out these celebrity smiles before and after they got famous!

If you want a celebrity smile for half the time and half the price of traditional braces, Impressions is here for you! With just a quick free consultation, you could start your smile transformation and have everything you need delivered to your door. Each Impressions treatment also comes with a professional whitening treatment, so that celebrity smile is closer than ever!

Did you have braces as a kid?

Before and after picture of Gwen Stefani smiling Marie Claire

If you had braces as a kid, you remember the colorful rubber bands, the food restrictions and the orthodontist appointments. But if not, there are still options to straighten your teeth out, without the visible wires and all those schedule conflicts!

Have you ever had your teeth whitened?

Before and after pictures of George Clooney smiling Duggan Dental Group

Coffee, soda and wine can do a number on our enamel color!

Do you have an overbite or underbite?

Graphic showing teeth overbites and under bites

An underbite means your lower teeth land in front of your upper teeth when you close your jaw. People with underbite have a more prominent lower jaw than normal. An overbite means your upper teeth overlap your lower teeth by more than 5mm when you close your jaw. An overbite of 3-5mm between the upper and lower teeth is considered normal. Fun fact: Overbites and underbites can be treated with Impressions! Many other invisible aligner companies are not able to correct bite positioning, but Impressions is able to take care of overbites and underbites for less than half the cost of traditional braces.

Do you have crowding, gaps or crooked teeth?

Graphics portraying teeth crowding and spacing

Crowded teeth and gapped teeth are two main types of teeth alignment problems that people fix with orthodontics. In addition to increasing your confidence, straightening your smile also increases oral health. Crowded, twisted and crooked teeth makes it easier to keep your teeth cleaner and healthier. Bringing gapped teeth closer together protects your gums.

Are you interested in improving your smile?

Before and after picture of Kate Beckinsale smiling

If you want a straighter whiter smile, Impressions is here for you. In half the time and for half the price of traditional braces, you could have perfect teeth and a free whitening treatment! Sign up for your free consultation today!

WHO'S YOUR CELEBRITY SMILE TWIN?
Blake Lively

Picture of Blake Lively

Keep smiling that perfect Hollywood smile! 😁 (Photo courtesy of Getty Images)
Eva Mendes

Picture of Eva Mendez

Eva Mendes was teased as a child for her "flaws" like her beauty mark and her overbite. However, she's a beautiful Hollywood star, "flaws" and all! If Eva wanted to correct her overbite, it would be a simple process with Impressions clear aligners. Interested in straightening your smile? Sign up for your free consultation here! (Photo courtesy of Stylecaster)
Joseph Gordon-Levitt

Picture of Joseph Gordon Levitt

You probably recognize Joseph Gordon-Levitt from 500 Days of Summer, Looper, and other popular movies, but have you ever noticed that he has an underbite? Underbites are no big deal, and be corrected quickly with Impressions clear aligners. Interested in straightening your smile? Sign up for your free consultation at impressionsmile.com! (Photo courtesy of celebritybite.net)
Katie Holmes

Picture of Katie Holmes smiling

Katie Holmes definitely has a beautiful Hollywood smile, but she didn't always. Since straightening her smile, she has played many roles on screen, won many acting awards and gotten a lot of attention for her stunning fashion sense. Interested in straightening your smile in half the time of traditional braces? Sign up for your free consultation at impressionsmile.com!(Photo courtesy of allon4dentalimplants.org)
Zac Efron

Picture of Zack Efron smiling

Famous for High School Musical and other teen heart-throb movies, Zac Efron has certainly grown up! After correcting his gapped teeth, he has a much more masculine appearance that helps him score diverse acting roles and awards! Interested in straightening your smile in half the time of traditional braces? Sign up for your free consultation at impressionsmile.com! (Photo courtesy of Marie Claire)

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Is There A Cheaper Alternative To Invisalign?

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Invisalign is the clear aligner system that has swept the nation. It is a great way to improve your smile and confidence by straightening your teeth, however, Invisalign can often be too costly for most people. In fact, a lot of patients don’t need the level of orthodontic correction that this system provides. Luckily, there is a cheaper alternative to Invisalign and it’s called Impressions. Produced with the same technology as Invisalign, only these at-home aligners work faster and cost a lot less.

For most patients in North Carolina, Impressions takes half the time and is only half the cost as Invisalign!

Get an Impressions Appointment

 

How Much Do Impressions Aligners Cost in Asheville?

This cheaper alternative to Invisalign costs $3,500 for the entire treatment, and that’s before you’ve factored insurance into the equation. With insurance coverage, Impressions could come down to $2,500-$3,000. Compare that to Invisalign, which runs a patient about $6,800, and the savings are clear.

Impressions providers also offer payment plans if a one-time payment does not work for you. After an initial down payment, you can pay off the rest of your balance monthly. There’s no credit check required to qualify, and the payment plans are interest free!

Impressions Aligners Use Invisalign Clear Technology

The beauty of Impressions is that it uses the same clear aligner technology that made Invisalign so famous. This includes a scan with the 3D iTero Digital Scanner, technology developed by the makers of Invisalign. The 3D scanner ensures a complete, accurate scan of your teeth in minutes, without all the mess and inconsistencies of at-home dental impression kits.

Following an initial scan and assessment of your jaw and teeth, a set of clear aligners will be made to your specific needs. These aligners are made from the same material as Invisalign, and they are just as flexible and durable. After they’ve been made, the aligners are sent to your home in your own Impressions kit, which also includes complimentary whitening gel. Aligners are changed out weekly to slowly move teeth into alignment.

Are Impressions Aligners Convenient?

One of the best parts about Impressions aligners is the convenient nature of the treatment. Patients only come into the orthodontist’s office for one visit. It’s then that you’ll receive a consultation by a professional and the 3D scan completed by the iTero scanner. A couple of weeks later, your personal Impressions kit will be delivered to your front door! With Impressions, you can literally change your smile from the comfort of your own couch.

Each week, you just pop in a new set of aligners. Unlike braces, aligners can be removed to eat or drink, and they’re virtually invisible. After six to nine months of treatment, you’ll be wowed by how incredible your teeth look. At this time, you can purchase Vivera retainers that are made based on your last set of Impressions’ trays, or you can swing by our office to have a free set of aligners made for you in-house.

Impressions Is Doctor Directed

Just because the majority of your treatment takes place from the comfort of your home does not mean that it isn’t being supervised properly. Impressions treatment is doctor directed, meaning a doctor is involved in planning each step of your treatment. Impressions was actually developed by an Asheville-based orthodontist, Dr. Luke Roberts, who is a Diamond-level Invisalign provider, meaning he is in the top 1% of Invisalign providers in all of North America.

Plus, an Impressions rep will be available to answer any questions you have along the way. There are even emergency lines available for after-hours inquiries! That means that you don’t have to deal with the hassle of appointments or waiting rooms, but you still have the expertise of an experienced doctor at your disposal.

Extended Payment Plans Are Available Too

Impressions treatment is amazingly affordable–it costs around $3,500 for the whole treatment! With the help of insurance, that price could come down an additional $500-$1000. And even better, Impressions files with all insurance providers.

Many of our patients are busy people with bills to pay, so we understand that it isn’t realistic for most people to pay entirely out of pocket. That’s why we offer extended, interest-free payment plans! With just a down payment, you can set up a monthly plan that works with your budget. Our team of dental professionals will be on hand to talk you through your payment options when you come in for your consultation. And don’t forget to check out our special lottery going on now–you could win up to $500 off treatment or a $300 gift card to Sierra Nevada or the Salt Cave of AVL — or even FREE treatment!

See If You’re A Candidate for Impressions

Impressions offers a more affordable, convenient alternative to traditional invisible aligners, but don’t just trust us, see for yourself! Fill out this form to see if you are a candidate for Impressions or request an appointment to ask any questions you may have.

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What You Could Win From the Impressions Lottery

You’ve heard about the Impressions Lottery, right? We’re giving out envelopes with a mystery prize inside to a limited number of Impressions fans. The really exciting thing about our Lottery is that every single envelope has an amazing prize inside! Everyone wins! But not in a boring, participation trophy sort of way.

We’re giving away gift cards, speakers, and serious discounts on Impressions treatment. A few lucky winners will even get FREE treatment! Because we’re so excited about the prizes you could win, we wanted to share exactly what the possibilities are!

What do you hope to get in your Lottery envelope?

$300 to Sierra Nevada Brewery

Take all your friends to Sierra Nevada, your treat! Wether you go for food, a concert or an exclusive tour, everyone is sure to have a great time. Don’t forget to raid the gift shop!

$200 to Limones

Enjoy a fancy dinner date with someone special at Limones! Their fine Mexican and Californian inspired cuisine never disappoints!

FREE Impressions Treatment!

You could straighten your smile without even pulling out your wallet!

$200 Starbucks gift card

Incase you’re wondering, that’s about 40 Java Chip Frappuccinos or 80 cups of coffee 😉

$300 to the Salt Cave of Asheville

Experience the restorative energy of Asheville’s only salt cave, plus a therapeutic massage!

$200-500 off Impressions Treatment

What could you do with an extra $200-500? There are a lot of possibilities to choose from!

Bose Bluetooth Speaker

Enjoy your music anywhere – at home, at work, on the trail, wherever you are!

$200 Amazon gift card

Visualize your Amazon wishlist, right now. Bet you can think of a couple things to treat yourself with already!

Have you requested your Lottery envelope yet?

We still have some envelopes left, so hurry up and reserve yours now! You’ll get one large envelope to open up that contains some more lottery details, and a smaller envelope that you’ll bring unopened to your free Impressions consultation. When you start your smile journey, you’ll open the small envelope and win whatever is in there! Every envelope has one of the prizes above, so everyone wins big!

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What’s an Impressions Consultation Like?

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For anyone in Asheville who is looking for an amazing way to straighten their teeth from the comfort of their own home, the answer is Impressions! Our invisible aligners are produced from the same high-quality material as Invisalign. If you’re thinking that this sounds like some of the other invisible aligner companies you’ve seen on TV, then please think again! Impressions offers a totally unique experience for our patients in Western North Carolina.

The other invisible aligner companies don’t do things like we do and that’s a good thing for you. Impressions invisible aligners are the perfect solution for busy professionals, bustling parents or young adults who would rather not have that first impression spoiled by a mouth full of metal brackets. No matter your reason for seeking that perfect smile, Impressions always starts with a specialized consultation.

Schedule An Appointment

 

Step 1) Determining Your Candidacy for Impressions

The first thing that needs to be done is to ensure that you are a viable candidate for Impressions invisible aligners. If you visit the homepage, you’ll see that there is a pre-screening form. If you are interested in Impressions, then this is a great first step to take. You’ll need to take some pics of your mouth (directions on the “Is It For Me” form) and provide some information about the problems you have with your smile. This information will be reviewed by an Impressions orthodontist to see if you are a viable candidate.

So what if you don’t use that form before visiting one of our ImpressionsHubs in Western North Carolina? One of our orthodontists will determine their candidacy right then and there. One important thing to note is that Impressions is not meant to serve as a replacement for someone who needs comprehensive orthodontic treatment. Impressions is a great fit for people who may have had braces at a younger age and have experienced some shifting in adulthood, or for people who have milder malocclusions that don’t require comprehensive treatment.

Remember that this Impressions consultation is complimentary!

Side Note: What’s the difference between Impressions and Invisalign?

There are a lot of options out there for orthodontic treatment, so what makes Impressions unique? Impressions is a limited treatment using actual Invisalign trays. That means that your smile is perfected by the same technology made famous by Invisalign but that the treatment itself is much shorter. This is because Impressions is used to address mild to moderate issues, perhaps with people who have had braces in the past, which is why we require each potential client to come in and see if they are a candidate during a complimentary consultation.

Step 2) 3D Scan of Your Teeth with the iTero Scanner

After the orthodontist determines your candidacy, a 3D scan of your teeth will be taken using our iTero Scanner. The scan will be taken by one of our awesome Impressions ortho assistants. You’ll actually be able to see the 3D model of your teeth being built in real time as the scan is done. It’s pretty cool and it takes less than 10 minutes!

SIDE NOTE: What if I have a missing tooth?

Just like we told Marni, having a missing tooth isn’t a problem. Our technology is able to be molded around the space so that the rest of your teeth are gently pushed into position. Later, an implant can be inserted into the gap so that you’re left with a flawless smile.

Step 3) Walking Through Your Scan

Once the 3D scan is complete, you and your doctor will look at the images and discuss what problems can be addressed. Impressions works just the same as Invisalign, meaning you need to wear them for a minimum of 22 hours per day to see real results. The easiest time is to wear them is while you sleep and throughout the day, only removing them to eat and brush/floss. This will all be discussed with you by your doctor, who will also lay out the expected length of treatment.

Perhaps you ended up needing more care than Impressions was able to tackle, but you only find out near the end of treatment. Any patient in need of comprehensive Invisalign treatment can apply the money they’ve already spent on Impressions to their Invisalign treatment.

SIDE NOTE: What if I accidentally throw away my aligners?

Replacement aligners are actually very easy to get. If you misplace or throw away a set of aligners, just get in contact with us—we’ll walk you through the steps to get a replacement set right away.

Step 4) Payment Plan

Impressions is eligible for coverage by your insurance if you have orthodontic insurance. We’re happy to provide a complimentary insurance check for all potential patients. If you don’t have insurance coverage, there are still plenty of ways to afford treatment. Our financing options are top notch, and our office will work with you to discuss the plan that works best. There is a down payment required, but you’ll learn all about that when you come in for your consultation.

Step 5) Your Trays Go in the Mail

After your trays have been manufactured by the folks at Invisalign, they’re sent to our office to be reviewed. We double check everything before packing your trays up in a box with a list of instructions and a complimentary tube of whitening and sending them on to you! You should receive them shortly thereafter.

If you have any questions or you’re unsure how to use the trays initially, sent up a quick virtual consultation! We’ll be happy to talk you through the treatment and explain everything to you in detail. From there, it’s just a matter of time until you’ve got a smile you’ve always wanted.

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