Invisalign FAQs

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment option that uses clear, custom aligners instead of the metal wires and brackets used for traditional braces.

During the consultation process, we will use an iTero 3D scanner to create a treatment plan based on your smile.

A series of custom clear aligners will then be manufactured to fit your teeth precisely during each stage of the Invisalign treatment process.

Throughout treatment, you will change from one set of clear aligners to the next, roughly every two weeks. Each set is designed to move your teeth a small amount, with the entire series working together to create your new smile.

The duration of your Invisalign treatment will be determined by your dentist based on your specific orthodontic needs.

Your dentist will perform an examination and consult with you on your oral health needs to determine a goal and the treatment plan needed to achieve it.

Factors that may impact the duration of your treatment include the misalignment of your teeth or jaw, the shape of your bite, and the amount of movement required to correct the problem.

Invisalign clear aligners are plastic trays made using BPA-free, USP Class VI medical-grade, high molecular-weight polyurethane resins.

While you will not require routine tightening like you would with traditional metal braces, you will still need to visit the dentist regularly for a quick check-up. On average these exams happen every four to six weeks, but your dentist will provide you with a schedule to fit your treatment plan.

During these appointments, your dentist will take the opportunity to review your progress and general oral health, answer your questions, and adjust your treatment as required.

Many patients find a number of benefits with Invisalign clear aligners including:

• A discreet appearance due to a snug fit and the use of clear materials.
• No tightening or adjustments are needed, only quick checkups.
• A smooth surface that allows for a more comfortable fit.
• Removable for eating, brushing and flossing.

As with most dental treatments, the cost of Invisalign will vary depending on several factors such as the severity of the orthodontic issues you are experiencing.

In many cases, the cost of Invisalign is comparable to that of traditional orthodontic treatment (braces).

Many patients find that treatment using Invisalign is easily integrated into their lives.

The aligners are easily removed for eating, drinking (anything other than water) and oral hygiene. This allows you to eat the foods you love and get every nook and cranny while brushing and flossing.

One of the benefits of Invisalign clear aligners is that you get to continue eating and drinking all of your favourite things. All you need to do is remove your aligners beforehand.

To avoid staining your clear aligners, we recommend removing them when drinking anything other than water.

The number of aligners you need will depend on your treatment plan and the severity of your orthodontic issues.

Your dentist will be able to provide you with an accurate estimate of how many aligners you will need, based on a careful evaluation of your bite during an initial consultation.

All patients who have healthy teeth and gums can use Invisalign clear aligners.

More and more adults are deciding to undergo orthodontic treatment these days. This may have something to do with the wider range of treatment options available today.

There are many cases of teenagers having orthodontic treatment using Invisalign. Invisalign even created a range of aligners geared to the needs and habits of teens.

Invisalign Teen aligners have compliance indicators on them. These are small blue dots that fade away after the aligners have been worn for two full weeks. This is meant to help teens stay on track while undergoing treatment.

They also come with eruption tabs that provide space for second molars and prevent them from growing crooked.

In most cases, you will be changing sets every two or so weeks although this depends on the progress made and your specific treatment plan. Your dentist will tell you exactly how often you should switch out your aligners.

Cleaning your Invisalign clear aligners is fairly simple. Here are some easy-to-follow sets to keep your aligners fresh:

1. Rinse your aligners each time you remove them. This will wash away dry saliva and plaque that can cause dental decay and bad breath.
2. Soak your aligners in a denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, and/or the official Invisalign cleaning crystals.
3. Always brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in your mouth. This can help prevent cavities and decay. Failing to brush and floss properly can trap food debris and bacteria between your teeth and aligners, increasing your risk of dental problems and bad breath.
4. Clean your aligners with a clear, anti-bacterial soft soap. This will help to remove harmful bacteria, keeping your aligners fresh.
5. Brush your aligners gently so as not to scratch them, and then rinse off the soap.

That's it! Your aligners are now clean and ready for wear.

You should remove your clear aligners while playing any sports or contact activities to prevent unintentional damage.

Remember that your aligners need to be worn for at least 22 hours each day. You should plan sports and extracurriculars around this timeframe to help keep your treatment on track.

You'll also want to invest in a sports mouth guard to protect your teeth. This is because orthodontic treatment can cause your teeth to loosen slightly as they shift into their new positions, and this can make them more susceptible to damage.

Absolutely. Just take them out and give them a rinse before popping them into their tray. 

Don't forget to put them back in though! As we mentioned above for sports, your aligners need to be worn for 22 hours each day.

All Invisalign aligners come with a carrying case. This is where you should store them when you are not wearing them.

This way you can keep them safe and prevent misplacing them.