Invisalign FAQs
Here, we share the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
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What is Invisalign?
Invisalign uses a series of clear plastic aligners that are custom-made to straighten teeth without the use of metal wires or brackets.
During the consultation, we will use advanced 3D computer imaging technology to 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?
Each set of Invisalign clear aligners moves your teeth in small increments. You 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. Your dentist will determine the duration of your Invisalign treatment based on your specific needs.
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How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Your dentist will create a treatment plan to meet your orthodontic needs. The length of your treatment will depend on a number of different factors.
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?
The Invisalign aligners are made with FDA-approved USP Class VI medical-grade, high-molecular-weight polyurethane resins. The materials used to create them are free of BPAs (Bisphenol A).
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How often do I have to visit the dentist?
Treatment with Invisalign doesn't require tightening appointments. Instead, you will need to change to the next set of aligners every two weeks and visit the dentist for a check-up every four to six weeks.
During 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.
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What are the primary features of Invisalign?
Some of the appealing features of Invisalign include:
- A discreet, low-profile appearance
- Created with smooth plastics, allowing for a comfortable fit
- No tightening needed
- Removable for eating, brushing and flossing
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How much does Invisalign cost?
Like any dental or orthodontic treatment, the cost of Invisalign will vary depending on the severity of your issue. For instance, the more severe the malocclusion, the more aligners you'll need and the more your treatment will cost.
Even so, the cost of Invisalign is comparable to traditional braces in many cases.
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How will Invisalign fit my lifestyle?
Many patients find that Invisalign is a good fit for their daily life.
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?
You will be able to remove your Invisalign clear aligners anytime you are eating. As a result, there are no dietary restrictions regarding Invisalign, so you can continue to eat all the foods you love!
We recommend removing your clear aligners to avoid staining them when you consume beverages such as wine, coffee, or dark sodas.
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How many sets of aligners will I need?
There is no straightforward answer to this question. This is because the number of aligners you need will depend on the severity of your orthodontic issues and the length of treatment.
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! As long as the teeth and gums are healthy, adults can choose Invisalign to address orthodontic issues.
More and more adults are deciding to undergo orthodontic treatment, largely because options like Invisalign have become available.
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Can teenagers use Invisalign?
Teenagers are a great candidate for Invisalign. There is also a special series of aligners with a blue dot to help teenagers keep track of their treatment.
Invisalign Teen aligners have compliance indicators (small blue dots that fade away after they are worn for two full weeks) 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 in crooked.
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How often do I have to change my Invisalign aligners?
How often you need to change your aligners depends on your specific plan. Your dentist will tell you exactly how often you should switch out your aligners.
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How do I clean my aligners?
You must rinse your aligners each time you remove them to remove dry saliva and plaque, which can lead to dental decay and bad breath.
Remember to brush and floss your teeth well before you put your aligners back in. 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, antibacterial soft soap. Clear anti-bacterial soap is an excellent and inexpensive way to keep your aligners clear, fresh, and free from harmful bacteria.
Gently brush your aligners to clean them, rinse any soap away, and then you can put them back in.
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Can I play sports with Invisalign?
You will be able to remove your clear aligners in order to play sports.
However, you should remember that Invisalign aligners must be worn 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. Orthodontic treatment can cause your teeth to loosen slightly as they shift into their new positions, making them more susceptible to damage.
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Can I play my instrument with Invisalign?
While you are playing an instrument you can place your aligners into their protective case. Just remember to put them back in afterwards.
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How do I store my aligners?
Your Invisalign aligners will come with a case, which you should put them in whenever you take them out to keep them safe.
Still have questions about Invisalign?
Send us your question, and we'll follow up with you.