Read the Answers to Our Most Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about Invisalign clear aligners from Mount Pearl Dental in Mount Pearl.
Invisalign FAQs
Read answers to our most frequently asked questions about Invisalign.
Have a question not answered here?
Send us your inquiry, and a member of our team will follow up with you.
-
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a series of clear, custom-fitted aligners that straighten your teeth without the use of metal wires or brackets.
With advanced 3D computer imaging technology, we will 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.
-
How does the Invisalign process work?
Invisalign clear aligners are designed to move your teeth in tiny increments throughout your treatment. You will wear each aligner for about 2 weeks before it is replaced by the next one in the series.
This process will continue until your teeth are in their prescribed, new positions. The duration of your Invisalign treatment will be determined by your dentist based on your specific needs.
-
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
The duration of your Invisalign treatment will be determined by your dentist based on your specific needs.
Factors that could affect 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.
-
What are Invisalign aligners made of?
Invisalign clear 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?
Invisalign aligners require no adjustments or tightening, as you follow your treatment plan of switching to a new set every 2 weeks. You will see your dentist for brief appointments every 4 to 6 weeks.
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.
-
What are the primary features of Invisalign?
The features of Invisalign are:
- A discreet, low-profile appearance
- Smooth construction for a comfortable fit
- No need for adjustment appointments
- Removable for brushing and flossing, eating and drinking
-
How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost of your treatment will be determined by factors like the severity of your case and 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?
Invisalign could integrate comfortably into your day-to-day life.
You can easily remove your aligners whenever you need to eat, drink, brush and floss. This means no dietary restrictions, and you'll be able to brush and floss thoroughly and consistently.
-
Are there any food or drink restrictions?
Since Invisalign aligners are removable, you can take them out to eat. This means no dietary restrictions and no missing out on your favourite foods!
To avoid staining your clear aligners, we recommend removing them when you consume beverages such as wine, coffee, or dark sodas.
-
How many sets of aligners will I need?
The number of aligners you will need will be determined by the specifics of your case.
Only your dentist can give you an accurate estimate of how many aligners you will need, based on a careful evaluation of your bite during an initial consultation.
-
Can adults use Invisalign?
Yes! Anyone who has healthy teeth and gums could qualify for Invisalign.
More and more adults are deciding to undergo orthodontic treatment these days, due in large part to options like Invisalign becoming available.
-
Can teenagers use Invisalign?
Yes, they can! 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 2 full weeks of wearing the aligners) to help teen patients 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 2 weeks or so, but only your dentist can tell you exactly how often you should switch out your aligners.
-
How do I clean my aligners?
Each time you remove your aligners, ensure you wash away dry saliva and plaque that can cause dental decay and bad breath.
Soak your aligners using denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, and/or the official Invisalign cleaning crystals.
Before putting your aligners back in, brush and floss your teeth thoroughly. Good oral hygiene is a key part of maintaining healthy teeth and avoiding cavities and decay. Inadequate brushing and flossing 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 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?
Since Invisalign aligners are removable, you can play sports without the worry of damaging your aligners.
Keep in mind, however, that Invisalign aligners must be kept in for a minimum of 22 hours daily, so plan your time carefully.
We also recommend investing in a sports mouth guard to protect your teeth, as orthodontic treatment can cause your teeth to loosen slightly as they shift into their new positions, making them more susceptible to damage.
-
Can I play my instrument with Invisalign?
Yes, you can! Simply take out your aligners to play your instrument, and pop them back in when you've finished practicing.
-
How do I store my aligners?
Your Invisalign aligners come with a case, and this is where your aligners should be kept whenever you take them out in order to keep them safe.