Invisalign FAQ

Invisalign is a way of giving you that picture-perfect smile without the hassle of braces. Rather than using wires and brackets, Invisalign requires you to wear a clear plastic aligner. You can remove this aligner whenever you want, meaning you don’t face many of the restrictions that come with standard braces.

How do I care for my Invisalign aligners?

Caring for your Invisalign aligners is easy! You’ll just need to brush them every day using a toothbrush, lukewarm water (never hot water), and toothpaste to keep them clean and fresh. You’ll also want to make sure your teeth are always clean before inserting your aligners, as food particles can sometimes damage or stain the plastic. You can also invest in Invisalign Cleaning Crystals, which allow you to soak your aligners for a deeper clean.

What is the treatment process?

First, one of our doctors will perform a comprehensive exam of your mouth. We’ll take a look at your smile and then use iTero scanner technology to take impressions of your teeth and gums. Using this data, we can then create a 3D model on the computer to show you how Invisalign can straighten and improve your smile.
If you love the look and decide to move forward, this digital treatment plan will be used to create your customized aligners. You’ll need to wear these for 20 to 22 hours each day to see results. Every one to two weeks, you’ll receive a new aligner to help your teeth gradually move into place. You’ll generally have an appointment every four to six weeks to check on your progress. While you should start seeing results in just a few weeks, treatment usually takes 12 to 18 months to complete.

How much does Invisalign cost?

The cost of Invisalign varies between individuals, as no one’s mouth is exactly the same. That said, you can expect prices to be the same as braces. In some cases, insurance will cover the cost of Invisalign, and you may also be able to set up payment plans to make the cost more affordable. Our goal is to make your treatment fit your budget, so we’ll help you out however we can so you can get the care you need.

 

How will Invisalign affect my lifestyle?

The great news is that Invisalign shouldn’t affect your lifestyle much at all. Because the aligners are basically invisible, most people will not notice you have them in. They also won’t affect your speech at all. All you have to remember is to take them out before eating, chewing gum, or smoking.

How long do I have to wear my aligners for each day?

You should wear your Invisalign aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day if you want to see the best results. We recommend only removing them for drinking, eating, flossing, and brushing.

Are there any food restrictions with Invisalign?

No, you can eat whatever you’d like during your Invisalign treatment — just remember to remove the aligners first. Also, it’s best to brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in to avoid stains.

 

How do I know Invisalign is right for me?

Invisalign is an amazing treatment for anyone who wants straighter teeth. It works great for fixing bite misalignment, malocclusions, crooked or crowded teeth, and more. Both teens and adults can take advantage of the minimal impact of wearing Invisalign without being embarrassed about the “metal mouth” look of braces. That said, the best way to know if Invisalign is right for you is to schedule a consultation with our orthodontists. They’ll be able to take a look at your mouth and create a customized treatment plan just for you.

Do I still need to see my dentist while wearing Invisalign?

Yes, it’s imperative to keep seeing your dentist. Our orthodontists are only working to straighten your teeth and align your jaw. It’s a dentist’s job to help keep your gums and teeth healthy and clean. If you don’t visit your dentist, you may begin to develop cavities or gum disease, so always make sure you are scheduling regular cleanings every six months.

How do I know Invisalign will work for me?

Invisalign has an incredible track record, with over 9 million people (including 1.4 million teens) using Invisalign to create beautiful smiles. It’s also FDA-approved, which should give you great peace of mind when it comes to safety. That said, if you’re still uncomfortable about the idea, just ask us to see testimonials and results from other patients with similar orthodontic issues. Our orthodontists will use their expertise to examine your mouth at the initial consultation and make a personalized recommendation about whether or not Invisalign is the treatment for you.