Invisalign FAQs
Browse the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
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What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a series of custom-made clear aligners that help straighten your teeth without using metal wires or brackets.
Your dentist uses 3D computer imaging technology throughout the consultation process and will create a treatment plan based on the unique needs of your smile.
A series of custom clear aligners will then be made to fit your teeth during every stage of the Invisalign treatment process.
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How does the Invisalign process work?
Invisalign clear plastic aligners are manufactured to move your teeth in tiny increments throughout your treatment. You will wear each set of aligners for approximately two weeks before switching to the next set in the series.
This process will continue until your teeth are in their prescribed, corrected positions. Your dentist will determine the length of your Invisalign treatment will 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.
The elements that could determine the length of your treatment include the misalignment of your teeth or jaw, the shape of your bite, and the amount of movement that's needed to correct the problem.
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What are Invisalign aligners made of?
The Invisalign aligners are made from 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?
Because Invisalign aligners don't have to be adjusted or tightened – you just switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks – your dentist will arrange brief appointments with you every 4 to 6 weeks.
At these appointments, your dentist will take the time to review your progress and general oral health, answer your questions, and make adjustments to your treatment as needed.
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What are the primary features of Invisalign?
The features of Invisalign include:
- Smooth construction for enhanced comfort
- A discreet, low profile appearance
- Removable for eating, brushing and flossing
- Do not require adjustment appointments
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How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost of your Invisalign treatment will depend on the severity of your case and the length of your treatment. For example, the more severe the malocclusion, the more aligners you'll require and the more your treatment will cost.
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What financing options do you offer?
We currently do not offer any financing options.
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How will Invisalign fit my lifestyle?
You might find that Invisalign fits very well into your everyday life.
You can remove your aligners to eat, drink, brush and floss. This means there aren't any dietary restrictions, and brushing and flossing are as easy as ever.
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Are there any food or drink restrictions?
Invisalign aligners are removable, so you can take them out to eat. As a result, there aren't dietary restrictions with Invisalign treatment, this means you can continue eating all of your favourite foods!
To keep your clear aligners from getting stained, we recommend removing them to 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 provide you with an accurate estimate for how many aligners you will require, following a careful evaluation of your bite during an initial consultation.
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Can adults use Invisalign?
Yes! Anyone with healthy teeth and gums can be a potential Invisalign candidate.
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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Can teenagers use Invisalign?
Yes! Teens could be potential candidates for Invisalign. Actually, Invisalign has developed a line of aligners to meet the unique requirements 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 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 need to switch to their next set of aligners approximately every two weeks. Your dentist will be able to tell you exactly how often you need change out your aligners.
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How do I clean my aligners?
Rinse your aligners every time you take them out wash off dry saliva and plaque that could cause dental decay and bad breath.
Soak your aligners with a denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, and/or the official Invisalign cleaning crystals.
Brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in. Excellent oral hygiene is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and preventing decay and cavities. Not brushing and flossing properly can trap food debris and bacteria between your teeth and aligners, increasing your risk for bad breath and dental problems.
Clean your aligners with a clear, anti-bacterial soft soap. Clear anti-bacterial soap can be a great and inexpensive way to keep your aligners clear, fresh, and free from harmful bacteria.
Brush your aligners gently so as you don't scratch them, and rinse off the soap. Then you're done!
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Can I play sports with Invisalign?
You can remove your Invisalign aligners, so you are able to play sports without having to worry about damaging your aligners.
However, you need to remember that Invisalign aligners have to be worn for at least 22 hours a day, so manage your time carefully.
You'll also want to invest in a sports mouthguard to protect your teeth, as orthodontic treatment can slightly loosen your teeth as they shift into their new positions, and this can make them more susceptible to damage.
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Can I play my instrument with Invisalign?
Yes! Just take your aligners to practice playing your instrument, and place them back in when you're finished.
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How do I store my aligners?
Your Invisalign aligners will come with a case, and this is where you should keep your aligners every time you take them out to protect them.