Invisalign FAQs: Your Questions Answered

If you're searching for a confident smile, you may be worried that painful metal braces are the only option for you. But did you know that the Invisalign clear system can correct even severe dental issues? 

Simple, less painful, and almost impossible to see, Invisalign aligners are growing in popularity each year. But what exactly is Invisalign, and what are the benefits of this system? 

We're here to answer these questions and more in this guide to all your Invisalign FAQs, so don't go anywhere! Keep reading for information that could help you on your way to a brand new smile!

How Do Invisalign Aligners Work?
Traditional metal braces use brackets and wires to pull your teeth into their desired position and require painful tightening. Instead of metal and wire, Invisialgin users clear aligners to accomplish the same task. 

Your dentist will create a treatment plan based on a scan of your mouth and your dental goals. Based on this plan, they create clear aligners that will snap neatly over your teeth. 

As time goes on and your teeth gradually change positions, your aligners will be swapped out for new ones. The end result? A brand new smile that you can flash with confidence!

Is Invisalign Painful?
Traditional braces have a reputation for being painful, especially after they are tightened. And unlike Invisalign aligners, they cannot be removed at home if they are causing extreme discomfort. 

Invisalign is considered to be far more comfortable than metal braces, though soreness during treatment is still common. Most patients report that they experience mild pain during their first week that fades as time goes on.
Eventually, you may not even remember that your wearing aligners!

If at any point the pain seems more severe than usual or the aligners are not fitting correctly over your teeth, you should seek an appointment with your provider as soon as possible. 

How Long Does Invisalign Take?
The length of your treatment will depend on your goals and the current placement of your teeth. Generally, the more severe the displacement the longer treatment will take. 

The average time of treatment is about 12 to 18 months, though it can be shorter or longer depending on several factors like age and dental health. The older teeth are the more effort it takes to move them, meaning that treatment in a teen will usually take less time than someone in their 30s. 

Compared to the average treatment time of metal braces, which is 18-24 months, Invisalign is often the quicker option. 

What Dental Problems Can Invisalign Treat?
Some of the most common dental problems Invisalign is used to correct include:

• Open bite
• Crossbite
• Gaps
• Crowding
• Deep overbite
• Excessive overjet

Invisalign is well-equipped to handle even severe dental problems, and most patients are good candidates for this form of treatment. To learn more about whether you or your child qualify for Invisalign, speak with your dental care provider. 

Are Any Foods Off Limits With Invisalign?
Many patients with metal braces are disappointed to find that several foods can't be eaten during treatment. Luckily, Invisalign has no such problems! 

Because you should be taking your aligners out every time you eat, you never need to worry about what food your eating. Instead, you just need to remember to remove, brush your teeth, and put your aligners back on after snacks or meals. 

How Much Does Invisalign Cost?
For most patients, the cost of their Invisalign treatment is comparable to the cost of traditional braces.

The total cost of Invisalign will depend on the severity of the teeth misalignment, the time treatment takes, and how well you follow the program instructions. Failing to follow your provider's guidance could result in a longer process, which in turn can up the cost of your treatment. 

Most insurance plans will cover Invisalign treatment the same way they would traditional metal braces. To find out more about what Invisalign could cost for you, speak with your dental provider. 

Is Invisalign Suitable For Children?
Today, metal braces are no longer the first option for many parents. Simple, invisible, and less painful, the Invisalign system has many benefits over traditional braces that make it appealing to parents and kids alike. 

While teens typically do very well with Invisalign, younger children are not always ideal for this method of treatment. When deciding if Invisalign is right for your child, you should consider their maturity. 

Invisalign aligners should be in for at least 22 hours a day in order for treatment to progress properly. Because the aligners can be removed easily, you should make sure your child understands the commitment of Invisalign. 

If you feel your child will keep the aligners in the minimum amount of time and follow all dental provider instructions with your guidance. Invisalign could be a great option for them. 

Another great reason for choosing Invisalign is because it is so much easier to brush and floss your teeth during treatment. Since the aligners can be removed to brush and floss, it is easier to clean your teeth, and reduces the risk of cavities and gum disease. 

To learn more about what options may be best for your child, speak with them and their dental care provider. 

Beginner's Invisalign FAQ Guide
If you or your child are interested in improving your smile and your dental health, you have more options than ever before. Today, Invisalign is one of the most popular alternatives to traditional braces and comes with several amazing benefits. 

Now that you know the answers to some of the most burning Invisalign FAQs, you're ready to take the next step on your dental journey!

Looking for more information on Invisalign and other dental health topics? Reach out today to schedule a visit with our office and speak with our team of dental experts!