Invisalign FAQs
See the answers to some of the questions we are frequently asked about Invisalign clear aligners at Blunston Dental Group in Airdrie.
Invisalign FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
- What are Invisalign clear aligners?
Invisalign clear aligner systems are a series of clear, custom-made aligners that straighten your teeth without using metal wires or brackets.
3D computer imaging technology is used in the consultation process to create a treatment plan that is based on your individual smile.
A series of custom clear aligners will be manufactured to fit your teeth precisely during every stage of the Invisalign treatment process.
- How does the Invisalign process work?
Invisalign's plastic clear aligners are designed to move your teeth in tiny increments as your treatment progresses. You will wear each aligner for about two weeks before replacing it with the next one in the series.
This process will continue until your teeth are in their prescribed positions. The duration of your Invisalign treatment will be determined by your dentist depending on your specific needs.
- How long does Invisalign treatment take?
The answer to this question will depend on the severity of your misalignment.
Only your dentist can give you an accurate estimate of how long your treatment will take, depending on a careful evaluation of your bite during an initial consultation.
- What are Invisalign aligners made of?
The Invisalign aligners are made with USP Class VI medical-grade, high molecular weight, polyurethane resins. They are BPA-free.
- How often do I have to visit the dentist?
Because Invisalign aligners require no adjustments or tightening – you just change to a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks – your dentist will schedule brief appointments with you every 4 - 6 weeks.
During these appointments, your dentist will take the time to 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?
Invisalign aligners are:
- A more discreet solution
- Smooth construction for enhanced comfort
- Do not require adjustment appointments
- Removable for eating, brushing, and flossing
- How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost will be based on the severity of your case and the length of your treatment. For instance, the more severe the malocclusion, the more aligners you'll need and the more your treatment will cost.
- How will Invisalign fit my lifestyle?
You might find that Invisalign fits very comfortably into your day-to-day life.
You can take your aligners out to eat, or brush and floss your teeth. That means absolutely no dietary restrictions, and brushing and flossing are 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 keep eating all the foods you love!
To avoid staining your clear aligners, we recommend removing them when you consume beverages 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 severity of your misalignment.
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?
Yes! Anyone who has healthy teeth and gums is a potential candidate for Invisalign.
- Can teenagers use Invisalign?
Yes! Teens can be candidates for Invisalign. In fact, Invisalign has created a line of aligners to meet the unique needs of teenagers.
Invisalign Teen aligners have compliance indicators on them (small blue dots that fade away after the aligners have been worn for two full weeks) to help teens stay on track during their treatment.
They also come with eruption tabs that give 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. Your dentist will tell you exactly how often you should switch out your aligners.
- How do I clean my aligners?
Rinse your aligners every time you remove them to wash away dry saliva and plaque that can lead to dental decay and bad breath.
Soak your aligners using a denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, and/or the official Invisalign cleaning crystals.
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. Failing to brush and floss properly can trap food debris and bacteria 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 could be an excellent and inexpensive way to keep your aligners clear, fresh, and free from harmful bacteria.
Brush your aligners gently so you don't 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 causing damage to your aligners.
However, keep in mind that Invisalign aligners must be worn for a minimum of 22 hours a day, so plan your time carefully.
You'll also want to invest in a sports mouthguard to protect your teeth, as 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 remove 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, and this is where you should put your aligners every time you take them out to keep them safe.
Can't find the answer you are looking for?
Get in touch. We are happy to answer any other questions you may have.