Frequently Asked Questions about Invisalign

A hand holds up an Invisalign Clear Aligner in front of a purple background
 Learn more about Invisalign Clear Aligners at FreySmiles Orthodontics

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth through a series of clear aligners that gradually moves the teeth. Invisalign is especially popular because it takes the self-consciousness that comes with traditional metal braces away while instilling life-long confidence. We receive many questions about Invisalign and the process that comes with treatment, so we have compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about Invisalign.

How does Invisalign work?

Instead of straightening your teeth with wires, brackets, and rubber bands, Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to gradually straighten teeth. The clear aligners are made through a series of molds that gradually pull your teeth into the correct position. 

Before you get your aligners, you will need to get x-rays done of your mouth and have an impression of your teeth done. This impression will be used as a guideline for your Invisalign aligners. Some patients may require small composite patches on their teeth to help the aligners stick to the teeth. If there is a substantial amount of crowding, orthodontists will sand away some of the enamel to create more room for future movement. 

You will be given a new aligner every one to two weeks to keep the correct amount of pressure on the teeth. Your last aligner will leave you with a straight and beautiful smile. 

How long is the treatment time with Invisalign Clear Aligners?

Generally, treatment time for Invisalign is 12 to 18 months. Patients can usually start to see progress within four weeks of treatment and some people can complete treatment in as little as six months. 

Every smile is unique so treatment times will vary from patient to patient based on the alignment issues that need to be addressed. 

How many hours per day do I need to wear Invisalign?

Full-time wear gives the best end results. We recommend that patients were their Invisalign aligners for 22 hours per day every day throughout treatment. This gives patients enough time to take them out for mealtimes since you cannot eat with your aligners in. This also gives patients leeway to practice good oral hygiene and to clean their aligners for a healthy smile. 

How do I clean my aligners? 

An important step to keeping your aligners clean is keeping your teeth clean. Invisalign wearers should practice a proper brushing, flossing, and rinsing routine twice a day to keep their teeth healthy and clean. 

Each time you remove your aligner to eat or brush your teeth, you should give your Invisalign trays a good rinse. This can wash away any plaque buildup, food particles, and excess saliva from your aligners. 

When you are going through your nightly oral health routine, you should give your aligners a good soak. This allows them to be deep cleaned at the end of the night. You can use a variety of different methods to soak your trays, including distilled white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide or you can use an ultrasonic cleaner for an extra deep clean. 

What are the benefits of Invisalign over traditional braces?

Invisalign treatment is for teens and adults who want to straighten their teeth but don’t want the aesthetics of braces. The name Invisalign is drawn from ‘invisible’ because the aligners are virtually undetectable when worn. This is especially valuable to adults who want to get orthodontic treatment but don’t want people to know they are undergoing treatment and teens who don’t want to change their lifestyle. Teenagers and young adults also love Invisalign because they feel more confident than they would with braces. 

The clear aligners are made out of plastic, so they are also more comfortable than braces. 

Does Invisalign hurt?

Invisalign clear aligners are generally more comfortable to wear than metal braces. Patients typically only report pain when they are still getting used to their first aligner or when a new aligner is given. Pain stemming from aligners is usually mild and very temporary. 

Some patients report no pain throughout the process. 

Is Invisalign more expensive than braces?

At FreySmiles Orthodontics, we don’t want the price tag of orthodontic treatment to keep them from smiling confidently. Learn more about the cost of Invisalign

Why Choose FreySmiles Orthodontics?

The orthodontists at FreySmiles are Diamond Plus Level Providers, meaning they are within the top 1% of Invisalign and Invisalign Teen providers in the country. Your smile will be in expert hands throughout your treatment journey. 

If you are interested in orthodontic treatment, contact our orthodontic office most convenient to you. We can’t wait to craft your smile!