Invisalign FAQs

Invisalign is a series of custom-fitted clear aligners that gradually straighten your teeth without relying on metal wires or brackets.

Using 3D computer imaging technology during the consultation process, we will create a treatment plan based on your unique smile.

A series of custom clear aligners will then be manufactured to fit your teeth during each stage of the Invisalign treatment process.

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 proceed until your teeth have reached their prescribed and corrected positions in your mouth. The length of your treatment will be decided by your orthodontist based on your unique smile and orthodontic needs. 

Your orthodontist will determine the duration of your Invisalign treatment based on your specific needs.

Some factors which may impact the length of your treatment include the misalignment of your jaw and teeth, the shape of your bite, and the amount of movement which is required to correct your orthodontic issue.

The Invisalign aligners are made with USP Class VI medical-grade, high molecular weight polyurethane resins. They are BPA free.

Since  Invisalign clear aligners don't require tightening or adjustments—simply requiring you to switch from one new set of aligners to the next every 2 weeks—your orthodontist will only need to schedule a short appointment with you every month or so.

During these appointments, your orthodontist will take the opportunity to review your progress and general oral health, answer your questions, and adjust your treatment as required.

The features of Invisalign include:

• A discreet, low profile appearance
• Removable for eating, brushing and flossing
• They enhance your comfort with smooth construction
• Do not require adjustment appointments

Cost will depend on the severity of your case and 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 most instances, the price of Invisalign is comparable to that of traditional orthodontic treatments like braces. 

You may find that Invisalign fits very comfortably into your day-to-day life.

You can remove your clear aligners whenever you need to drink, eat brush and floss. This means that you have absolutely no dietary restrictions and your oral hygiene routine remains as easy as ever.

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.

The answer to this question will depend on the severity of your misalignment.

Your orthodontist will be able to give you an accurate estimate of the number of aligners you will need, based on a careful evaluation of your bite during an initial consultation.

Absolutely! Anyone who has healthy teeth and gums is a potential candidate for Invisalign.

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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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 Teen aligners have compliance indicators on them (small blue dots that fade away after the aligners have been worn for two full weeks) to help teens stay on track with their treatment.

These Invisalign clear aligners also come with eruption tabs with space for a second set of molars to prevent them from growing in crooked.

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Most patients switch from one set of aligners in the series to the next two weeks or so. Your orthodontist will tell you exactly how often you should switch your own set of clear aligners.

Rinse your aligners each time you remove them to wash away 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. 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 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!

Invisalign aligners are removable so you can play sports without worrying about causing damage to 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.

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.

Yes! Simply remove your aligners to practice playing your instrument, and pop them back in when you're done.

Your Invisalign aligners will come with a case, and this is where you should put your aligners whenever you take them out to keep them safe.