Invisalign FAQs
Below we offer some of 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 the metal wires or brackets that are seen on traditional braces.
Using advanced 3D computer imaging technology during the consultation process we can show you the expected result of treatment and help create your personalized treatment plan.
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 are made to slowly shift your teeth into a new position as the treatment progresses. You will wear each aligner for about two weeks before it is replaced by the next set in the series.
This process will continue until your teeth are in their prescribed, corrected positions. The duration of your Invisalign treatment will be decided by your dentist based on the concerns and desired outcome.
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How long does Invisalign treatment take?
The amount of time that you partake in treatment using Invisalign clear aligners will be determined by your dentist based on your unique 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 needed to reach your desired outcome.
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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?
One of the main benefits of Invisalign clear aligners is that in-office adjustments are not needed– 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.
These appointments are still important and your dentist will take this 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 helpful features of Invisalign include:
- A discreet, low-profile appearance
- Smooth construction for a more comfortable fit
- No need for adjustment appointments
- Removable for eating, brushing and flossing
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How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost will depend on the desired outcome 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, you can compare the overall cost of Invisalign to the cost of traditional orthodontic treatment with braces.
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What financing options do you offer?
We currently do not offer financing options. Contact your dentist if you would like more information about payment options.
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How will Invisalign fit my lifestyle?
You may find that Invisalign easily becomes a part of your daily routine.
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 aligners are removable, meaning you can take them out to eat. This means that dietary restrictions are a thing of the past and you can continue eating the foods you love.
We recommend removing them when you consume beverages such as wine, coffee, or dark sodas in order to prevent your clear aligners from becoming stained.
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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 and your desired outcome.
Your dentist will be able to provide you with 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 deciding to undergo orthodontic treatment these days, this increase is likely because of the availability of newer options such as Invisalign.
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Can teenagers use Invisalign?
Yes! Teens can certainly be candidates for Invisalign. In fact, Invisalign has designed a specific line of clear aligners for teenagers to assist with their unique needs.
Invisalign Teen aligners have compliance indicators on them (small blue dots that fade away after the aligners have been worn for two full weeks) in order to help teens stay on track throughout treatment.
They also come with eruption tabs that provide space for second molars which will prevent these new teeth from growing in on an angle.
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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 inform you of the amount of time you will be spending on each set of 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 result in dental decay and bad breath.
Soak your aligners using a denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, and/or the official Invisalign cleaning crystals.
Always brush and floss your teeth prior to putting your aligners back into 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 aligner, resulting in serious 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 clear aligners gently in order to avoid scratching them, and then rinse off the soap. You can now get back to using your aligners.
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Can I play sports with Invisalign?
Invisalign aligners are removable which is great for those that play sports!
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 make injuries to your teeth more likely to occur.
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Can I play my instrument with Invisalign?
Yes! Simply remove your aligners to practice playing your instrument, and when you are done playing you can just easily put your aligners back in!
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How do I store my aligners?
Your Invisalign aligners will come with a case, and it is important you place your clear aligners in this case whenever you take them out to keep them safe.