The Invisalign Journey: Your Top Questions Answered

At Smile Society Dentistry, we love helping our patients achieve their dream smiles with Invisalign. If you're considering clear aligners, you probably have a lot of questions about the process. We’ve gathered the most common Invisalign questions and answered them here to help you feel confident in your decision.

+ What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth. These aligners are custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth and shift them into their ideal positions over time.

+ How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign aligners apply gentle, controlled force to move your teeth. Every one to two weeks, you’ll switch to a new set of aligners that gradually shift your teeth according to a personalized treatment plan created by your dentist.

+ How long does Invisalign treatment take?

Treatment time varies based on individual needs, but most patients complete their Invisalign journey within 6 to 18 months. Your dentist will provide a more precise timeline during your consultation.

+ Is Invisalign painful?

Invisalign is generally more comfortable than traditional braces. Some patients experience mild discomfort or pressure when switching to a new aligner set, but this usually subsides within a few days.

+ Is Invisalign noticeable?

Invisalign aligners are made of clear, nearly invisible plastic, making them much less noticeable than traditional metal braces. Most people won’t even realize you’re wearing them unless they look very closely.

+ How often do I need to wear my aligners?

For the best results, you should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, only removing them for eating, drinking (except water), brushing, and flossing.

+ How often do I need to change aligners?

Typically, you will switch to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, as directed by your dentist. The exact schedule depends on your treatment plan and how well your teeth are responding.

+ Can I eat and drink with Invisalign?

You should remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water. This prevents staining and damage to the aligners. Always brush your teeth before putting them back in.

+ Will Invisalign affect my speech?

Some patients notice a slight lisp when they first start wearing Invisalign, but this usually disappears within a few days as you get used to the aligners.

+ How do I clean my Invisalign aligners?

Clean your aligners daily using a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the plastic. Invisalign cleaning crystals or gentle, clear antibacterial soap can also be used to keep them fresh.

+ What happens if I lose an aligner?

If you lose an aligner, contact our office as soon as possible. Depending on your case, we may advise you to wear your previous aligner, move on to the next set, or order a replacement.

+ How much does Invisalign cost?

The cost of Invisalign depends on the complexity of your case. At Smile Society Dentistry, we offer flexible payment plans and financing options to make treatment affordable. We also help you maximize any insurance coverage you may have.

+ Is Invisalign as effective as braces?

For many cases, Invisalign is just as effective as traditional braces. However, severe orthodontic issues may still require braces. During your consultation, we’ll determine whether Invisalign is the best option for you.

+ What happens after Invisalign treatment?

Once your treatment is complete, you’ll need to wear a retainer to maintain your new smile. Retainers help prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions.

+ How long do I need to wear retainers after treatment?

Most patients will need to wear retainers full-time for the first few months after treatment, then transition to nighttime wear indefinitely. Your dentist will provide specific recommendations based on your case.

Start Your Invisalign Journey Today! If you’re ready to transform your smile with Invisalign, book a consultation at Smile Society Dentistry today. Our team will guide you through every step of the process and create a custom treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Call us or book your appointment online to get started!