Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
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What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a series of clear, custom-fitted aligners that straighten your teeth without metal wires or brackets.
During the consultation process, we will use advanced 3D computer imaging technology to create a treatment plan based on your smile goals.
We will then manufacture a series of custom clear aligners 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 are designed to move your teeth in tiny increments as your treatment progresses. 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. 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 determine the duration of your Invisalign treatment based on your specific needs.
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 USP Class VI medical-grade, high-molecular-weight polyurethane resins. They 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 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?
The features of Invisalign include:
- A discreet, low-profile appearance
- Smooth construction for a more comfortable fit
- Do not require adjustment appointments
- Removable for eating, brushing and flossing
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How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost will depend on the severity of your case and the duration of your treatment. For example, the more severe the malocclusion, the more aligners you'll need, and the more expensive your treatment will be.
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?
You may find that Invisalign fits comfortably into your day-to-day life.
You can take your aligners out whenever you need to eat, drink, brush or floss. That means there are 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 aligners are removable, meaning you can take them out to eat. As a result, there are no dietary restrictions when it comes to Invisalign, 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.
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How many sets of aligners will I need?
The answer to this question will depend on the severity of your misalignment.
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! Anyone who has healthy teeth and gums is a potential candidate for Invisalign.
More and more adults are choosing orthodontic treatment these days, in large part because options like Invisalign have become available.
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Can teenagers use Invisalign?
Yes! Teens can certainly be candidates for Invisalign. In fact, Invisalign has created a line of aligners to meet the unique needs of teenagers.
Invisalign Teens can stay on track with their treatment with the help of compliance indicators on their aligners, which are small blue dots that disappear after two full weeks of use.
They also come with eruption tabs that provide space for second molars and prevent them from growing crooked.
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How often do I have to change my Invisalign aligners?
Most patients change to their next set of aligners every two weeks or so. Your dentist will tell you exactly how often you should switch out your aligners.
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How do I clean my aligners?
Rinse your aligners each time you remove them to wash away dry saliva and plaque that can cause dental decay and bad breath.
Soak your aligners with denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, and/or the official Invisalign cleaning crystals.
Brush and floss your teeth 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 aligner, increasing the risk of dental problems and bad breath.
Clean your aligners with a clear, antibacterial soft soap. Clear antibacterial 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!
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Can I play sports with Invisalign?
Invisalign aligners are removable, so you can play sports without worrying about causing damage to your aligners.
However, bear in mind that you must wear your Invisalign aligners for a minimum of 22 hours each day, so carefully schedule your time.
To protect your teeth, you'll also want to invest in a sports mouth guard, as 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?
Yes! Simply remove your aligners to practice playing your instrument, and pop them back in when you're done.
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How do I store my aligners?
Your Invisalign aligners will come with a case, and you should put them there whenever you remove them.
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