INVISALIGN® UPPER WESTSIDE MANHATTAN

Westside Family Dental Group offers Invisalign, also called “clear aligners”, for patients on the Upper West Side who want to straighten their smile without traditional metal braces. (Invisalign is often searched online as “clear braces”, but that is different; find out more about “ceramic braces” here.).  This page is about Invisalign, a form of clear aligners.

Our office combines kids & adult dentistry with in-house orthodontic care, so you can complete your entire Invisalign treatment with a team you already know and trust. Whether you are exploring clear aligners for the first time or comparing Invisalign to traditional or ceramic braces, our team is here to help you find the option that fits your smile, your goals, and your schedule.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign treatment starts with digital x-rays and impressions that create a precise 3D image of your teeth and bite. From there, we design a custom series of clear aligners that gradually shift your teeth into place, with a new set typically worn every 2 weeks. You will visit our office roughly every 6 weeks so the doctor can check your progress, make adjustments as needed, and keep your treatment on track.  Importantly, you will regularly meet with Dr. Kim himself.

Invisalign vs Braces

Invisalign clear aligners are removable and nearly invisible, while traditional braces rely on fixed metal brackets and wires that stay on your teeth throughout treatment. Because you can take Invisalign out, you can eat what you like and brush and floss the way you always have, which many adults and busy teens find easier to fit into daily life. Traditional braces may still be recommended for some complex bite issues, so our team will help you weigh Invisalign vs braces and choose the right path for you.

Benefits of Invisalign

Clear aligners offer several everyday advantages over metal braces. Many patients appreciate that Invisalign fits into an active lifestyle without changing how they eat, brush, or floss. Here are some of the benefits patients value most:

• Nearly invisible, so most people will not notice you are wearing them.
• Removable for eating, brushing, and flossing, which supports better oral hygiene during treatment – lower risk of cavities and gingivitis (gums bleeding and puffy gums)
• Made from smooth plastic with no metal brackets or wires to irritate your cheeks and gums
• Easy to take out for photos, presentations, or special occasions
• Fewer office visits than some traditional braces treatment plans

Why Choose Westside Family Dental Group for Your Invisalign Needs

Our orthodontist, Dr. Jae Kim, DDS, MS, works alongside our general & pediatric dentistry team to plan and monitor your treatment from start to finish. Because we already know your smile and dental history, your Invisalign clear aligner care stays connected, convenient, and personal to you.

Frequently Asked Questions about Invisalign

How long will I have to wear Invisalign®?

Most adult patients wear their Invisalign aligners for about 1 year, though timelines vary based on your individual treatment plan and how your teeth respond. For the best results, aligners should be worn 20 to 22 hours a day and removed mainly for eating, drinking, and brushing. Sticking closely to this schedule helps keep your treatment moving as planned.

Can I remove them while playing sports?

Yes, Invisalign aligners can be removed for sports, and we recommend wearing a mouthguard for extra protection during activity. Our office also provides mouthguards, so we can help you find the right fit for both your aligners and your active schedule. This way, you can stay active without worrying about your smile.

Does wearing Invisalign hurt?

Invisalign is designed for comfort, though you may notice mild pressure for 1-2 days after switching to a new set of aligners. This feeling is a normal sign that your teeth are shifting and typically fades quickly as you adjust. If discomfort lingers longer than expected, our team is happy to check your fit at your next visit.

To schedule your Invisalign consultation, contact Westside Family Dental Group at Westside Family Dental Group Phone Number 212-496-9600. We would be happy to help you take the next step toward a smile you feel good about, right here on the Upper West Side.