Invisalign Treatment: Top Questions Answered
Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment option that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth. The aligners are custom-made for each individual patient, and they gently shift teeth into their proper position over time. Invisalign is an appealing alternative to traditional braces as they are virtually invisible, making them a discreet option for people who want to straighten their teeth without drawing attention to their treatment. In addition to their cosmetic benefits, Invisalign aligners are also comfortable to wear, easy to remove for eating and brushing, and do not require tightening appointments. All of this makes Invisalign a convenient and effective solution for people looking to improve their smile.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign works by using a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually shift your teeth into their proper position. You’ll wear each set of aligners for about two weeks before switching to the next set, and the aligners apply gentle pressure to your teeth to help facilitate movement.
Is Invisalign effective?
Yes! Invisalign is a very effective way to straighten teeth and improve bite issues. It’s a popular alternative to traditional braces because it’s virtually invisible and more comfortable to wear.
How long does treatment with Invisalign take?
The length of Invisalign treatment can vary depending on the individual case, but on average it takes about 12-18 months. Some people may see results in as little as six months, while others may take longer. Our doctors can give you a better idea of how long your treatment will take.
Is Invisalign painful?
Invisalign is generally not painful, but some people may experience mild discomfort during the first few days of wearing a new set of aligners. This is because the aligners are applying pressure to your teeth to help them shift, and some people may feel pressure or discomfort in the beginning. However, this typically goes away rather quickly and many people find that Invisalign is much more comfortable than traditional braces.
How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost of Invisalign can vary depending on your individual case, but on average it’s comparable to the cost of traditional braces. Our doctors can give you a better idea of what you can expect to pay for Invisalign based on your teeth and mouth.
Can Invisalign treat all types of dental issues?
No, Invisalign is not able to treat every single dental issue out there. But it can treat a variety of dental issues, including crowded or spaced teeth, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. We can help you know if Invisalign would be an effective form of treatment for you.
How often do you have to wear Invisalign aligners?
You should wear your Invisalign aligners for 20-22 hours a day in order to see the best results. It’s important to keep them in place as much as possible so that they can do their job of gradually shifting your teeth into their proper position. The better you are at wearing them, the quicker your treatment typically goes!
Can you eat with Invisalign aligners in?
No, you’ll need to remove your Invisalign aligners when you eat. This is because food can get trapped between the aligners and your teeth, impacting the effectiveness of your treatment.
How often do you have to visit the dentist for Invisalign?
You’ll typically need to visit our office every 6-8 weeks for check-ups to ensure that your treatment is progressing as it should be. During these visits, you’ll receive your next set of aligners and your orthodontist will assess your progress.
Is Invisalign suitable for everyone?
While it is not be suitable for everyone, Invisalign has helped over 7 million people create a straighter, healthier smile. We always recommend coming in for an evaluation to determine if Invisalign would make sense for you.
To schedule an Invisalign evaluation, call our office at (949) 642-2300.