Invisalign FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
Can't find the answer you're looking for?
Send us your question, and we will follow up with an answer.
-
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a series of clear aligners that are custom-fitted just for you. The goal of Invisalign clear aligner treatment is to straighten your teeth without metal wires or brackets.
Using 3D computer imaging technology during the consultation process, we will create a treatment plan based on your smile.
As part of your personalized treatment plan, a series of custom clear aligners will then be manufactured to precisely fit your teeth during each stage of the Invisalign treatment process.
-
How does the Invisalign process work?
Invisalign clear plastic aligners are designed to subtly realign your teeth in tiny increments as your treatment progresses. Each set of custom-fitted aligners in your treatment process is worn for about two weeks before replacing it with 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.
-
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Only your dentist can accurately determine the duration of your Invisalign treatment based on your specific needs.
Some factors that may affect how long your treatment may take include the degree of misalignment of your teeth or jaw, the shape of your bite, and the amount of realignment required to correct the problem.
-
What are Invisalign aligners made of?
The Invisalign aligners are manufactured using BPA-free, USP Class VI medical-grade, high molecular weight polyurethane resins.
-
How often do I have to visit the dentist?
One of the key features of Invisalign treatment is that the aligners require no adjustments or tightening – you just switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks. During your treatment, your dentist will schedule brief appointments with you every 4 to 6 weeks.
At these appointments, your dentist will take the opportunity to review your progress and general oral health, answer your questions, and adjust your treatment as required.
-
What are the primary features of Invisalign?
Some of the features of Invisalign clear aligners include:
- A discreet, low-profile appearance
- Smooth, clear construction
- No need to book frequent adjustment appointments
- Removable for eating, brushing, and flossing
-
How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost of your personalized Invisalign treatment will depend on elements such as the severity of your case and the duration of your treatment. 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).
-
What financing options do you offer?
Our clinic does not offer any financing options at this time.
-
How will Invisalign fit my lifestyle?
Invisalign could fit comfortably into your daily life, and you may find it fairly easy to adjust.
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.
-
Are there any food or drink restrictions?
Because Invisalign aligners are removable, you can take them out to eat. That means no dietary restrictions during your Invisalign treatment, so you can continue to eat all the foods you love!
To avoid staining your clear aligners, we recommend removing them when you consume beverages such as wine, coffee, or dark sodas.
-
How many sets of aligners will I need?
This will depend on how much realigning your dentist has determined necessary to reach your smile goals.
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.
-
Can adults use Invisalign?
Yes! Anyone who has healthy teeth and gums could qualify for treatment with Invisalign clear aligners.
More and more adults are deciding to undergo orthodontic treatment these days, in large part because options like Invisalign have become available.
-
Can teenagers use Invisalign?
Yes! Teens can certainly be candidates for Invisalign. With this in mind, Invisalign has created a line of aligners to meet the unique needs of teenagers.
Invisalign Teen clear aligners have compliance indicators on them (small blue dots that fade away after two full weeks' wear) to help teens stay on track with their treatment.
They also come with eruption tabs that provide space for second molars and prevent them from growing crooked.
-
How often do I have to change my Invisalign aligners?
Although most patients change to their next set of aligners every two weeks or so, your specific treatment schedule will be determined by your dentist.
-
How do I clean my aligners?
Rinse your aligners each time you remove them to get rid of dry saliva and plaque that can result in dental decay and bad breath.
Soak your aligners using denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, and/or the official Invisalign cleaning crystals.
Brush and floss your teeth before you put your aligners back in. Maintaining good oral hygiene is key to avoiding cavities and decay. Failing to brush and floss properly can trap food debris and bacteria between your teeth and aligner, increasing your risk of dental problems and bad breath.
Clean your aligners with a clear, anti-bacterial soft soap. Clear anti-bacterial soap is an excellent and inexpensive way to keep your aligners clear, fresh, and free from harmful bacteria.
Brush your aligners gently so as not to scratch them, and then rinse off the soap. Then you're done!
-
Can I play sports with Invisalign?
Because Invisalign aligners are removable, you can play sports without worrying about damaging your aligners.
However, keep in mind that Invisalign aligners must be kept in for a minimum of 22 hours a day, so plan your time carefully.
We also recommend investing 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.
-
Can I play my instrument with Invisalign?
Yes! Simply remove your aligners if necessary to play your instrument, rinse them and store them in their case... and pop them back in when you're done.
-
How do I store my aligners?
Your Invisalign aligners will come with a case, and this is where you should put your aligners whenever you aren't wearing them.