Beautiful woman smiling holding Invisalign

Invisalign

If you're looking to straighten your teeth, you probably want a more subtle, comfortable option than metal braces. Invisalign® offers a modern orthodontic treatment that uses clear plastic aligners to correct dental alignment. At Columbia Smiles in Columbia, SC, Dr. Nick Pournaras can use Invisalign to help you achieve the smile you've been dreaming of.

A Closer Look at Invisalign

Invisalign is an orthodontic alternative to braces that has helped millions of teen and adult patients correct dental misalignment issues. Rather than using obvious metal brackets and wires to straighten teeth, the Invisalign system employs a series of custom-made clear aligners to gradually shift teeth into position.
You'll switch to a new aligner set every few weeks as your treatment progresses, attending checkups at our Columbia, SC, offices throughout the process. That's one of the best things about Invisalign—you don't have to visit an orthodontist to straighten your smile. Instead, you can enjoy easy treatment under the supervision of your friendly local dentist, Nick Pournaras.

The Benefits of Invisalign Compared With Traditional Braces

Greater Comfort

Braces use metal brackets and wires to straighten teeth. Unfortunately, having metal in your mouth can lead to uncomfortable irritation against the insides of your lips, especially if you play contact sports or lead an active lifestyle. Because Invisalign uses flexible plastic aligners, there's no risk of scratches or sensitivity. This treatment option offers improved comfort, regardless of your activity level.

Discreet Appearance

Wearing obvious brackets and wires in your mouth can make it difficult to smile confidently. If you're already past the "braces phase" of life, smiling may feel downright impossible. If you want to achieve better dental alignment without drawing attention to your treatment, Invisalign is a great choice. These clear aligners are virtually invisible in your smile, and it's likely others won't even be able to tell you're wearing them.

Simpler Treatment

Braces come with uncomfortable tightening appointments, dietary restrictions, and additional work to brush and floss. Because Invisalign aligners are completely removable, they can fit comfortably into your lifestyle. During treatment with clear aligners, you can skip the painful tightening sessions, eat all the foods you normally would, and brush and floss without any special tools or tricks.

Let's Get Started on Your Dream Smile Request a Consultation Today

Are you ready to take the first step towards the beautiful, even smile you've always wanted? Rather than turning to an orthodontist for treatment with conventional braces, trust our accredited dentist, Dr. Nick Pournaras, for comfortable orthodontic treatment with Invisalign.

Dr. Pournaras is an accredited member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. This means that he is officially recognized for having the skill and training to help patients achieve smiles that are both healthy and beautiful. In fact, he is one of only six dental practitioners in South Carolina to achieve this honor. 

Patients across the state appreciate the quality of Dr. Pournaras' dental work. We've even been pleased to welcome a number of Miss South Carolina pageant contestants for treatment at Columbia Smiles. If you're interested in achieving a stage-ready smile of your own, contact us today for a consultation. You can also call us in Columbia, SC: 

(803) 888-6504

Dr. Nick Pournaras

Wonderful Reviews From Our Patients "THE BEST PLACE FOR YOUR DENTAL CARE"

1

Christy Taylor

2022

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What a great experience, the staff were so welcoming and the Dr was amazing made me feel comfortable and acted like he cared.

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1

Stephanie Pinder-Gilford

2023

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I want to say this is the best place for your dental care I was scared as he'll and doctor nick and his staff made me feel so comfortable my new home is with them Thank you so much

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The Invisalign Treatment Timeline

​Most of our Invisalign patients complete their treatments within 12 to 18 months. You'll attend checkups at our office every two to three weeks so Dr. Pournaras can monitor your progress.
​Most of our Invisalign patients complete their treatments within 12 to 18 months. You'll attend checkups at our office every two to three weeks so Dr. Pournaras can monitor your progress.

Initial Consultation

When you visit us for an Invisalign consultation, Dr. Pournaras will perform a thorough assessment of your alignment issues and overall oral health. If you have a preexisting dental issue like tooth decay or gum disease, we can address it here at our office before beginning the Invisalign process.

Taking Impressions

Our dentist will use an iTero® intraoral scanner to take detailed digital impressions of your smile. This tool works quickly and lets you avoid the hassle of messy dental putty. Your impressions will be sent to an Invisalign lab, where trained technicians will use them to guide the creation of your clear aligners.

Aligner Fabrication

Each one of your custom aligners will be slightly different than the last, helping to gently align your teeth over time. It typically takes a few weeks for aligner sets to be completed and sent to our office.

Aligner Fitting

Once we've received your aligners, return to Columbia Smiles for a fitting. Dr. Pournaras will make sure your aligners fit snugly and are comfortable against your gums so you can enjoy a stress-free treatment process.

Begin Treatment

Be sure to wear your aligners for at least 22 hours a day, only removing them to eat, brush, and floss. Cleaning your aligners is easy—just scrub them with a soft-bristled brush, warm water, and mild soap. Every few weeks, you'll return for a checkup so Dr. Pournaras can ensure your treatment is running smoothly.

More Kind Words for Our Team "EVERYONE MAKES ME FEEL AT HOME"

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sunan akins

2022

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Very warm and friendly staff. Dr. Nick is very knowledgeable and vivacious. He loves his craft and it shows. The staff work very well together and take the time to answer any questions you might have and most importantly will show you how to properly take care of your teeth and gums. I am actually looking forward to my next visit.

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1

Chevron VIce

2022

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I have been a patient for the last five years. Everyone makes me feel at home in the office. Staff treats you like family. Pam introduced me to laser whitening last week. I have sensitive teeth and this procedure was perfect for me. No problems and Great results!

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Nick Pournaras, DMD

Columbia Smiles Nick Pournaras, DMD

Dr. Nick Pournaras, DMD and the team of dental professionals at Columbia Smiles in Columbia, SC, are dedicated to helping our community improve their oral health and rejuvenate their smiles. Dr. Pournaras is a member of a number of professional dental organizations, including:

  • American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
  • American Academy of Implant Dentistry
  • American Dental Association
  • Academy of General Dentistry
  • Academy of Comprehensive Esthetics
  • South Carolina Dental Association

To schedule an appointment, contact us online or call us at (803) 888-6504 today.

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