Invisalign FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about Invisalign clear aligners from the Ottawa Dentistry practice.
Invisalign FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
-
What are Invisalign clear aligners?
The Invisalign clear aligner system is a series of clear, custom-fitted aligners that can straighten your teeth sans metal wires or brackets.
The consultation process includes the use of advanced 3D computer imaging technology in order to create a treatment plan based on your unique smile.
A series of custom clear aligners will be manufactured to precisely fit your teeth during each stage of the Invisalign treatment process. -
How does the Invisalign process work?
Invisalign's clear plastic aligners are designed to move your teeth by tiny increments as you progress through your treatment. Each aligner will be worn for about two weeks before you replace it with the next one in the series.
This process will continue until your teeth are in their prescribed, corrected positions. How long your Invisalign treatment takes is based on what your dentist determines is best for your specific needs. -
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Your dentist will determine the duration of your Invisalign treatment based on your teeth alignment goals.
Factors that may impact the duration of your treatment include the initial alignment of your teeth or jaw, the shape of your bite, and the amount of movement required to correct the problem. -
What are Invisalign aligners made of?
The Invisalign aligners are BPA-free and are made with USP Class VI medical-grade, high molecular weight, polyurethane resins.
-
How often do I have to visit the dentist?
Since Invisalign aligners are made without metal wires or brackets, they require no adjustments or tightening – you just switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks. Your dentist will schedule brief appointments with you every 4 - 6 weeks.
During these appointments, your dentist will review your progress and general oral health, answer your questions, and make adjustments to your treatment as required. -
What are the primary features of Invisalign?
The Invisalign clear aligner system is:
- More discreet than traditional braces
- Smoothly constructed for enhanced comfort
- Removable for eating, brushing and flossing
-
How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost of your Invisalign treatment process will depend on your unique case and the needed duration of your treatment. For instance, the more severe the malocclusion, the more aligners you'll need and the more your treatment will cost.
In many cases, the cost of Invisalign is comparable to that of traditional orthodontic treatment (braces). -
How will Invisalign fit my lifestyle?
You may find that Invisalign fits very comfortably into your daily life and activities.
You can take your aligners out whenever you need to eat or brush and floss your teeth. That means no dietary restrictions, and that maintaining your oral health is just as easy as ever. -
Are there any food or drink restrictions?
Invisalign aligners are removable, meaning you can take them out to eat. As a result, there are no dietary restrictions when it comes to Invisalign, so you can continue to eat all the foods you love!
To avoid discolouring your clear aligners, we recommend removing them when you consume drinks such as wine, coffee, or dark soda beverages. -
How many sets of aligners will I need?
The answer to this question will depend on the needs of your particular case.
Only your dentist can give you an accurate estimate of how long your treatment will take, based on a careful evaluation of your bite during an initial consultation. -
Can adults use Invisalign?
Absolutely! Anyone who has healthy teeth and gums is a potential candidate for Invisalign.
More and more adults are deciding to undergo orthodontic treatment these days, in large part because options like Invisalign have become available. -
Can teenagers use Invisalign?
Yes! Teens can definitely be candidates for Invisalign. In fact, Invisalign has created a line of aligners to meet the unique needs of teenagers.
Invisalign Teen aligners have helpful 'compliance indicators' (small blue dots that fade away after the aligners have been worn for two full weeks) to help users stay on track with their treatment.
They also come with eruption tabs that provide space for second molars and prevent them from growing in crooked. -
How often do I have to change my Invisalign aligners?
Most patients change to their next set of aligners every two weeks or so, but your dentist will tell you exactly how often to switch out your aligners.
-
How do I clean my aligners?
Rinse your aligners every time you remove them and wash away dry saliva and plaque that can result in dental decay and bad breath.
Soak your clear aligners using a denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, and/or the official Invisalign cleaning crystals.
Be sure to brush and floss your teeth before you put your aligners back in. Good oral hygiene is key to maintaining healthy teeth and avoiding cavities and decay. Improper brushing and flossing can leave food debris and bacteria trapped between your teeth and aligner, increasing your risk of dental problems and bad breath.
Clean your aligners with a clear, anti-bacterial soft soap. Clear anti-bacterial soap is an excellent and inexpensive way to keep your aligners clear, fresh, and free from harmful bacteria.
Brush your aligners gently so as not to scratch them, and then rinse off the soap. Then you're done!
-
Can I play sports with Invisalign?
Invisalign aligners are removable, so you can play sports without worrying about damaging your aligners.
It's important to remember that Invisalign aligners must be kept in for a minimum of 22 hours a day, so plan your time carefully.
It's a good idea to invest in a sports mouthguard to protect your teeth 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. -
Can I play my instrument with Invisalign?
Yes! Simply take out your aligners to practice playing your instrument, and pop them back in when you're done.
-
How do I store my aligners?
Your Invisalign aligners will come with a case to keep them safe, and this is where you should put your aligners whenever you take them out.
Can't find the answer you're looking for?
Get in touch. We'd be glad to answer any other questions you may have.