Learn More About Invisalign Treatment

Roughly 15% of Americans have orthodontic problems severe enough to negatively affect the health and function of their teeth and jaws. Dentists estimate that closer to 50% have cosmetic problems that would ideally be treated with orthodontic care. Braces remain the most popular solution across all ages, but Invisalign is in high demand for older teens and adults.

Here are the answers to some of the most popular questions from people interested in Invisalign treatment. 

1. Is Invisalign a better orthodontic solution than braces?

Invisalign is definitely the most popular alternative to braces. It has several benefits that make it an attractive choice, but many adults want Invisalign over braces because of how quick, yet subtle, treatment plans can be. What is deemed best for your smile comes down to several factors, but based on ease of care and effectiveness, Invisalign is generally a better choice for the average adult than metal braces.

2. Will Invisalign work for every orthodontic case?

Invisalign is very effective, and the technology behind it continues to advance, but it can’t fix all orthodontic problems. Generally speaking, Invisalign is suitable for treating most mild-to-moderate malocclusions (bad bites). It’s great for realigning crowded or crooked teeth and closing gaps. Invisalign can also adjust less severe classes of overbites and underbites. 

Invisalign can also be coupled with SmartForce attachments, which are small tooth-colored plastic nubs that allow the clear aligners to grip teeth more effectively. These are often used in more complicated cases, or to move teeth more quickly than the aligners can accomplish by themselves. 

3. Is there a specific age range for Invisalign treatment?

Invisalign makes clear aligners systems for children, teens, and adults, but it’s most popular amongst older teens and adults. It’s important that the candidate be capable and motivated to wear their aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day. Children and younger teens may not be responsible enough to replace their aligners after meals or brushing, which is why braces are often preferred for pediatric care. 

4. Are Invisalign aligners really that clear?

Although Invisalign isn’t truly invisible, they are quite clear and exceptionally subtle, especially at a standard socializing distance. Most people stand 1.5 to 3 feet apart during casual conversation, which means your Invisalign aligners will essentially be undetectable. Some may notice the clear aligners at closer distances, particularly if you have SmartForce attachments on your teeth, but under most circumstances, your Invisalign treatment will be your secret.

5. Does Invisalign treatment hurt?

Invisalign treatment doesn’t hurt, but you can expect some minor discomfort as you advance to new aligner trays. The discomfort is usually described as a sore feeling because of the pressure on the teeth but typically dissipates within a few days. Most people who’ve had braces previously will also say that Invisalign is considerably more comfortable because there aren’t any wires or brackets to poke or rub against your lips, cheeks, and tongue. 

6. How exactly does Invisalign move teeth?

Invisalign aligners are made of a safe BPA-free material that’s custom-made for your smile based on the scans and impressions taken of your teeth. These digital impressions are uploaded into the Invisalign software to predict tooth movement and design a series of aligners that will take you from start to finish. These Invisalign clear aligners place gentle but consistent pressure on the teeth to coax them into  straighter alignment. Most treatment plans will have 20 to 30 trays, each replaced with the next in the series after two weeks.

7. How do I keep Invisalign aligners clean?

Caring for Invisalign is a breeze, especially when compared to metal braces. Ensure you continue to care for your teeth as you normally would by brushing twice daily for two minutes and flossing at least once daily. You can also swish with salt water before you put your aligners back in. 

As for the aligners themselves, soak them in the aligner cleaning solution at least once a day, and ideally leave them in salt water during meals. It’s encouraged to brush your teeth before replacing the aligners after eating, but if this isn’t possible, you can swish with clean water and wash the aligners with antibacterial hand soap, rinsing them thoroughly before placing them back in your mouth. 

8. What can I eat while I’m wearing Invisalign?

Your diet doesn’t need to change during Invisalign treatment! Remember to always remove your Invisalign aligners before eating, even if you only have a quick snack. You can drink water while wearing your aligners, but we strongly recommend patients remove them before having other beverages, especially sweet drinks or anything that can stain, like coffee, black tea, or wine. 

9. How long does Invisalign treatment take?

Only your dentist can give you an accurate estimate of how long treatment will take. The severity and complexity of your malocclusion will be the primary factors influencing treatment duration. For mild malocclusion with some crowding and moderate gaps, you may only need to wear your aligners for four to six months, while more complicated cases may take a year or more. The average treatment time for adults is roughly 12 to 18 months.

10. What does it take to start Invisalign treatment?

You can get started with Invisalign surprisingly fast! The first step is a consultation with a Corpus Christi Invisalign dentist to evaluate your smile. They’ll determine if you’re an ideal candidate for Invisalign, discuss expectations for treatment, and answer any questions you might have about treatment. If you’re a candidate, you’ll usually return for a second appointment where your dentist will take digital scans and impressions to begin the process of creating your treatment plan and a customized set of aligner trays.

Schedule a consultation with your Orchard Dental Associates in Corpus Christi.

For the best in general dentistry and orthodontics in Corpus Christi, Orchard Dental Associates is your ideal destination to discover your best smile yet. Dr. Orchard and Dr. Villamil are both experienced in Invisalign treatment and will help get you started on an effective treatment plan. Book your Invisalign consultation today by calling our office or requesting a visit online.