Invisalign FAQ
What does it feel like to wear Invisalign?
Invisalign trays are made of a super-thin, flexible, plastic material. They latch onto teeth snugly and are very smooth, so they do not snag the soft tissues of the mouth. At the start of each new set of trays, there may be some discomfort because new movements are occurring, but putting the fresh aligners in at bedtime helps mitigate the discomfort as the teeth begin to move in new ways.
How does Invisalign work?
Clear trays are customized to every patient and designed to slowly, consistently move a few teeth at a time. Teeth and roots are moved simultaneously though, a method that speeds up the alignment process. The Invisalign method is simple overall, but the biggest element of success is compliance. Each patient must wear the trays as instructed, clean them, and keep them safe when they’re not on their teeth. Soon enough, you’ll notice a difference in the appearance of your smile, an excellent motivator.
Do I have to wear Invisalign all the time?
Invisalign must be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day and removed only for meals, snacks, and cleanings. The longer the trays are on your teeth, the more effective the treatment. Even though Invisalign patients have the freedom to take the aligners off as they please, leaving the trays out for more than an hour at a time can be detrimental to the overall treatment progress.
What are Invisalign attachments?
Attachments are a common part of Invisalign treatment and most patients need at least a few of these composite shapes temporarily bonded to their teeth. The attachments come in various forms – squares, triangles, circles, rectangles, and more – and anchor the aligners in place so they fit better and patients have more predictable tooth movements. It’s important to clean attachments thoroughly so they remain discreet, just like Invisalign aligners.
How long is Invisalign treatment?
Invisalign is known for its efficiency. It often takes only a year to complete full treatment – compared to 18 months to three years for conventional metal braces. The length of treatment depends on how much teeth need to move and how well the patient sticks to the work of wearing their trays. Small gaps and a few crooked teeth may only require six months of treatment or less – every patient is different. You’ll know what kind of timeline to expect before you say yes to the process.
How much does Invisalign cost?
Of course, one of the most common Invisalign FAQs is how much this treatment costs. Generally, Invisalign is on par with the cost for conventional metal braces – between $3,000 and $7,000 depending on the complexity of your case and how many trays are needed for complete treatment. Your Bethesda Invisalign provider offers multiple financing options to make this treatment affordable.
Do I have to wear a retainer after Invisalign treatment?
No matter what type of orthodontic treatment a person undergoes, a retainer is a necessity. Your teeth and roots have shifted dramatically in your mouth – a retainer reinforces their new and proper locations, so all that effort was truly worth it. The good news: Retainers are clear and discreet and usually only need to be worn at night, depending on your dentist’s recommendation.
Is Invisalign right for me?
This Invisalign FAQ delivers the basic information patients need to know about this discreet orthodontic treatment, but only your Bethesda Invisalign provider can tell you whether you’re a good candidate for clear aligners. Contact Bethesda Family Dental to schedule a consultation and find out if Invisalign can deliver the results you want for your smile.
