Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about Invisalign.
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What are Invisalign clear aligners?
The Invisalign system is a series of clear, custom-fitted aligners that help straighten your teeth without the metal wires or brackets associated with traditional braces.
Using our 3D computer imaging technology during the consultation process, a customized treatment plan is created based on your unique smile.
After that, a series of custom clear aligners will 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's clear plastic aligners are designed to readjust your teeth by 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 positions. How long your Invisalign treatment lasts will be determined by your dentist based on your specific needs and how much your teeth need to be shifted.
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How long does Invisalign treatment take?
The duration of your Invisalign treatment is determined by your dentist and is based on your unique smile.
Misalignment of your teeth or jaw, the shape of your bite, and the amount of movement required to correct the problem are all factors that affect how long your Invisalign treatment will take.
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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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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 soda beverages.
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Can adults use Invisalign?
Yes! Anyone who has healthy teeth and gums is a potential candidate for Invisalign. Your dentist will conduct a thorough consultation and examination before treatment begins to ensure you are a good candidate.
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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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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 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.
They also come with eruption tabs that can provide space for second molars and prevent them from growing in crooked.
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How do I clean my aligners?
Rinse your aligners each time you take them out 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 your aligners gently so as not to scratch them, and then rinse off the soap.
You can also 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 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.
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How do I store my aligners?
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.
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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 long your treatment will take, based on a careful evaluation of your bite during an initial consultation.
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How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost depends on the severity of your case and the duration of your treatment. More complex cases require longer treatment, and therefore more sets of aligners, and will increase the cost of treatment.
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How often do I 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 often do I have to visit the dentist?
Since Invisalign aligners do not need adjusting 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 make any necessary adjustments to your treatment.
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What are the primary features of Invisalign?
Invisalign aligners are:
- A discreet and transparent solution
- Smooth construction for enhanced comfort
- Do not require adjustment appointments
- Removable for eating, brushing and flossing
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