Invisalign® straightens your teeth without wires and brackets, using a series of clear, customized, removable appliances called aligners. Moreover, it’s virtually undetectable, which means hardly anyone will know that you’re straightening your teeth.
How Invisalign® Works
The Invisalign System combines advanced 3-D computer graphics technology with 100-year-old science of orthodontics. Specifically, Invisalign designs aligners to move your teeth in small steps to the desired final position your orthodontist prescribes. Furthermore, the company precisely calibrates and manufactures each aligner to fit your mouth at each stage of the treatment plan.
Am I a good candidate for Invisalign®?
First and foremost, your initial step is to visit our office to determine if Invisalign is right for you. After sending precise treatment instructions, Invisalign then uses advanced computer technology to translate these instructions into a sequence of finely calibrated aligners – as few as 12 or as many as 48. Subsequently, you wear each aligner for about two weeks and only remove it to eat, brush, and floss. As you replace each aligner with the next, your teeth will begin to move gradually – week-by-week until you attain the final prescribed alignment. Ultimately, you’ll be smiling like you never have before!
If you want to learn more about Invisalign and how it works, please visit the Invisalign website.
To ensure the best possible results, only an orthodontist whom Align Technology has trained and certified can diagnose and treat using Invisalign. The company does not intend Invisalign for children, and it is not appropriate for every adult. Only an orthodontist can determine if this treatment is an effective option for you. To see if Invisalign can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted, contact us to make an appointment.
Below you’ll find some common questions that we receive about Invisalign®:
How often must I wear my aligners?
You must wear your aligners for up to 22 hours daily. You may remove them for eating, drinking and regular oral hygiene.
Are there any restrictions to what I can eat while in treatment?
No. Unlike braces, you may eat whatever you like as long as you remove the aligners before eating. Prior to placing the aligners back on, it is important to brush your teeth and the aligners after you eat.
Will wearing the aligners affect my speech?
Like any orthodontic treatment, there is a short adjustment period. The more you speak with the aligners on, the quicker you will adjust.
Is there any discomfort with Invisalign® treatment?
There will be some pressure and minor discomfort for a day or two after each initial insertion. This is a sign that your teeth are moving sequentially into their final position.
Can I chew gum?
It is recommended that you remove your aligners prior to chewing gum as the gum will stick to the aligners.
Can I smoke with the aligners in?
We discourage smoking with aligners as the cigarette smoke will tend to discolor them.
How do I keep my aligners clean?
Brushing them with toothpaste will keep them fresh and clean.
How often do I see an orthodontist while wearing Invisalign®?
Regular office visits are every five to six weeks. This will ensure that your Invisalign treatment is progressing as planned.
What happens after my treatment is complete? Do I need retainers?
All orthodontic patients are instructed to wear their retainers at night indefinitely. Sleeping with your retainers in at night will ensure a healthy bite and maintain the new position of your teeth.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Treatment time varies depending on the severity of the misaligned teeth. Treatment time can be shorter than traditional braces, between six and 18 months.
Does Invisalign work for kids?
Yes, if their teeth, including second molars, have grown in completely.
If you are ready to get started on the path to your new smile, contact us to schedule your first appointment for a complimentary initial exam. If you have any questions about our practice or the treatment that we offer, reach out to us and our staff will be more than happy to get you the answers and information you need. We look forward to adding you to our family of smiling patients!