Invisalign FAQs
Starting orthodontic treatment can be an exciting and nerve-wracking time. Knowing what to expect can help give you confidence in your treatment plan.
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What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a series of clear, custom-made aligners that straighten the teeth discreetly without the use of metal wires or brackets.
Using advanced 3D computer imaging technology during the consultation process, we will create a treatment plan based on your smile.
A series of custom clear aligners will then be manufactured to fit your teeth precisely during each stage of the Invisalign treatment process.
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How does the Invisalign process work?
Invisalign clear plastic aligners will gradually change the alignment of your teeth. Each set of aligners adjusts your teeth a small amount using pressure. You will wear each aligner for about two weeks before it is replaced by the next one in the series.
This process will continue until your teeth are in their prescribed, corrected positions. The duration of your Invisalign treatment will be determined by your dentist based on your specific needs.
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How long does Invisalign treatment take?
The timeline for your treatment will be determined by your dentist based on your current orthodontic situation and your overall smile goals.
Factors that may determine the duration of your treatment include the misalignment of your teeth or jaw, the shape of your bite, and the amount of movement required to correct the problem.
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What are Invisalign aligners made of?
Invisalign clear aligners are made with USP Class VI medical-grade, high molecular-weight polyurethane resins. These types of plastics are BPA-free.
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How often do I have to visit the dentist?
Since Invisalign aligners require no adjustments or tightening – you just switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks – your dentist will schedule brief appointments with you every 4 to 6 weeks.
Your dentist will use these visits to do a quick examination to assess your progress and oral health, answer your questions, and adjust your treatment as required.
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What are the primary features of Invisalign?
The features of Invisalign include:
- A discreet appearance with custom-fitted trays
- Smooth construction for a more comfortable fit
- No adjustment appointments, switch to your new aligners at home
- Removable for eating, brushing, and flossing
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How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost of treatment using Invisalign will vary between patients. The complexity of your orthodontic issues and the duration of treatment are the main cost factors. For instance, the more severe the malocclusion, the more aligners you'll need and the more your treatment will cost.
In many cases, the cost of Invisalign is comparable to that of traditional orthodontic treatment (braces).
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How will Invisalign fit my lifestyle?
Many patients find that Invisalign is a simple way to transform their smile without affecting their day-to-day life too much.
You can take your aligners out whenever you need to eat, drink, brush, and floss. That means no dietary restrictions, and you'll be able to brush and floss thoroughly and consistently.
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Are there any food or drink restrictions?
Invisalign clear aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene. As a result, there are no dietary restrictions when it comes to Invisalign, so you can continue to eat all the foods you love!
Beverages such as wine, coffee, or dark sodas can stain your aligners. Be sure to remove them when drinking anything other than water.
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How many sets of aligners will I need?
The number of aligner sets you need will depend on your orthodontic concerns and how much your teeth will need to move.
Only your dentist can give you an accurate estimate of how many aligners you will need, based on a careful evaluation of your bite during an initial consultation.
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Can adults use Invisalign?
Yes! Invisalign is suitable for all patients with healthy teeth and gums.
More and more adults are deciding to undergo orthodontic treatment these days, in large part because options like Invisalign have become available.
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Can teenagers use Invisalign?
Teenagers are usually great candidates for Invisalign.
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How often do I have to change my Invisalign aligners?
In most cases, you would change your aligners around every two weeks. Although, there may be different instructions in certain cases. Your dentist will tell you exactly how often you should switch out your aligners.
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How do I clean my aligners?
Dry saliva and plaque can result in dental decay and bad breath. To combat this, you should soak your aligners every time you remove them.
Soak your aligners using a denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, and/or the official Invisalign cleaning crystals.
Always be sure to brush your teeth and floss before placing your aligners back in your mouth. Good oral hygiene is key to maintaining healthy teeth and avoiding cavities and decay. Failing to brush and floss properly can trap food debris and bacteria between your teeth and aligners, increasing your risk of dental problems and bad breath.
Clean your aligners with a clear, anti-bacterial soft soap. Clear antibacterial soap is an excellent and inexpensive way to keep your aligners clear, fresh, and free from harmful bacteria.
Your aligners can scratch, so be sure to brush them gently, and then rinse off the soap. That's it!
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Can I play sports with Invisalign?
Aligners can be damaged during certain sports. Luckily, they are removable so you can take them out while you play.
However, keep in mind that Invisalign aligners must be kept in for a minimum of 22 hours a day, so plan your time carefully.
You'll also want to invest in a sports mouth guard to protect your teeth, as orthodontic treatment can cause your teeth to loosen slightly as they shift into their new positions, and this can make them more susceptible to damage.
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Can I play my instrument with Invisalign?
Yes! Because they are removable, you can just pop them out while you play your instrument and then put them back in right after you finish.
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How do I store my aligners?
You will be given a case when you begin treatment with Invisalign, and this is where you should put your aligners whenever you take them out to keep them safe.
Have more questions about Invisalign?
Send us your question, and we'll follow up with you.