Answering Some Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign

Invisalign is a clear aligner, a popular “invisible” alternative to traditional braces. You wear a series of clear, removable, custom-fit trays over your teeth to straighten them. They don’t have any metal wires or brackets like traditional braces do, and they can treat most of the same bite misalignment problems. If you’re curious about this type of orthodontic treatment, let’s answer some frequently asked questions about Invisalign.

Am I too old to get treatment with Invisalign?

Not at all! There’s no age cap on getting treatment with Invisalign—or with other clear aligners, traditional or lingual braces, or any other orthodontic treatment. The idea that orthodontists are just for kids and teens is a myth. Orthodontic treatment for adults is more common than ever—largely thanks to “invisible” options like Invisalign—and 1 in 3 orthodontic patients today are 18 and up.

What are Invisalign trays made of?

Invisalign trays are made out of a clear, thin, flexible, patented, FDA-approved plastic material called SmartTrack®. This material does not contain the chemicals BPA (bisphenol A) or BPS (bisphenol), and is also free of latex and gluten.

How does treatment with Invisalign work?

You’ll get tightly fitting custom-made trays that slip on over your teeth and exert constant pressure to move them as needed. As the targeted teeth gradually move, you’ll continue to get new trays that have been adapted to the progress you’ve made. Typically, you get a new set of clear aligners every 1 to 2 weeks, as recommended by your orthodontist.

How many hours a day do you wear Invisalign?

You keep the trays in for at least 20 to 22 hours per day, removing them only to eat and drink, brush and floss your teeth, and to clean the trays. You wear them while you sleep.

How long does treatment take with Invisalign?

Just like there aren’t one-size-fits-all clear aligners, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The duration of treatment depends on a variety of individual factors—especially the type and severity of your misalignment condition. But, on average, Invisalign treatment takes 12 to 18 months. Many patients start seeing improvement in a matter of weeks, though.

How often do you need an orthodontist appointment during treatment?

This too depends on individual factors. But the norm is to have an appointment every 4 to 6 weeks. This is primarily so your orthodontist can monitor progress, make sure it’s right on track, and make any adjustments to the established course of treatment if necessary.

Are there food and drink restrictions with Invisalign?

Nope! That’s one of the best parts. While traditional braces come with some forbidden foods, Invisalign trays are entirely removable and replaceable on your own, so you just pop them out to eat and drink whatever you want. Then, brush your teeth and put the trays back on.

How much does Invisalign treatment cost?

Treatment with Invisalign is comparable in cost to traditional braces, and it can sometimes be a bit less. Here at Ogden Orthodontics, we’re an in-network provider for most major health insurance carriers, and Invisalign is covered by most dental plans. Also, we work with patients to set up an affordable payment plan. We also offer discounts when paying in full up front and when we treat more than one member of your family.

What happens at the end of treatment?

Once you’ve completed the course of treatment as determined by your orthodontist, you’ll stop wearing your clear aligner trays and receive no further sets. Your doctor may advise you to wear a fixed or removable retainer for a prescribed amount of time to ensure that the treatment doesn’t start to reverse.

What if I have more questions?

These are just some of the most frequently asked questions about Invisalign treatment. If you have additional questions, or if you’d like to schedule a 100% free consultation for yourself or your child, get in touch with us today.