SHORELINE, Wash. – October 1, 2008 -- Orthodontic treatment has come a long way from the time of bulky metal wires, headgear and brackets which bring back memories of the associated “nerd factor”.  Today’s teenagers can now get more than straight teeth at Hoag & Dotsch – they can get fashion accessories.

Image-conscious teens can now choose from a wide range of options to straighten their teeth, without others even knowing they are in treatment.  This is done with a series of nearly invisible, removable aligners called Invisalign.  By now, many have heard of Invisalign, which Hoag & Dotsch have been offering to their patients since 2005, when the husband and wife team were certified.  Dr. John Hoag and Dr. Michelle Dotsch have seen the amazing results from their many patients who have completed Invisalign orthodontics. 

“We know from our adult patients who have received Invisalign treatment, the results have far exceeded their expectations”, stated Dr. John Hoag.  “The ease of wearing the Aligners, without others knowing about it, has let our adult patients achieve their desire to have a more naturally beautiful and healthy smile, which they would have never received without this convenient option.” 

Dr. Michelle Dotsch agrees, “With the ability now to keep your own natural teeth for a lifetime, Invisalign has given our patients a way to achieve better hygiene, a more comfortable bite, and an improved self-confidence with their new smile.”

Drs. Hoag & Dotsch are thrilled to now be able to offer this option for their teenage patients as young as 13 years old, with some added extra modifications.  Invisalign Teen uses the same, nearly invisible aligners as the adult option, with the added bonus of features aimed at growing teens.  The most exciting addition is in the form of a blue dot, which allows the teen and doctor to see if the aligners are being worn for the recommended time.  It is a compliance indicator that will start to disappear only when it is worn , providing a great incentive for teens to wear them and allowing parents to breathe a sigh of relief to not have to guess if their teens are actually keeping the aligners in. 

Another highlight of Invisalign Teen is replacement aligners.  With hectic schedules and always being on the go, aligners can get lost.  Align Technology will include 6 replacement aligners as part of the Invisalign Teen treatment, so teens won’t feel so bad about breaking or losing them, and parents will be able to order a replacement without any additional cost.   

Hoag & Dotsch will be hosting a Celebrate Invisalign and Invisalign Teen Day on Thursday, November 13th from 3-7pm.  At the event, guests will have the opportunity to meet with an Invisalign representative and will have the unique opportunity to save hundreds of dollars on their Invisalign treatment. Drs. Hoag & Dotsch will be providing complementary consultations to answer any questions about Invisalign or Invisalign Teen treatment.  If you have wondered if Invisalign is right for you or someone you know, please join us for this special 1-day event!