Invisalign FAQs

Below are the answers to the questions we are asked most frequently about the Invisalign clear aligners we offer at Northside Dental in Sydney Mines.

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Invisalign FAQs

Below are the answers to our most frequently asked questions.

What are Invisalign clear aligners?

The Invisalign clear aligner treatment is a series of transparent, custom-fitted aligners that straighten your teeth without the use of metal wires or brackets.

3D computer imaging technology is used during the consultation process to create a treatment plan based on your unique needs.

A series of custom clear aligners will be made to fit your teeth exactly during every stage of the Invisalign treatment process.

How does the Invisalign process work?

Invisalign's clear plastic aligners are designed to shift your teeth by tiny increments as your treatment progresses. You'll wear each aligner for approximately two weeks before replacing it with the next one in the series.

This process will continue until your teeth are in their prescribed positions. The length of your Invisalign treatment will be determined by your dentist based on your specific needs.

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

Your dentist will determine the length of your Invisalign treatment depends on your specific requirements.

Factors that might determine 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 fix the problem.

What are Invisalign aligners made of?

The Invisalign aligners are made from USP Class VI medical-grade, high molecular weight, polyurethane resins. They are BPA-free.

How often do I have to visit the dentist?

Since Invisalign aligners don't require adjustments or tightening you only have to switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks. Your dentist will schedule brief appointments with you every 4 - 6 weeks.

During these appointments, your dentist will take the opportunity to review your progress and overall oral health, answer any questions you have, and make adjustments to your treatment as required.

What are the primary features of Invisalign?

Invisalign aligners are:

  • A clear and transparent treatment option
  • Smooth construction to help enhance comfort
  • No adjustment appointments
  • Removable for eating, brushing, and flossing

How much does Invisalign cost?

The cost of your aligners will depend on the severity of your case and the duration of your treatment. For example, the more severe the malocclusion, the more aligners you'll require and the more your treatment will cost.

What financing options do you offer?

We offer financing through WayDent to help support your Invisalign treatment journey. Speak to your dentist or click here to learn more.

How will Invisalign fit my lifestyle?

You might find that Invisalign fits very comfortably into your everyday life.

You can take your aligners out when you need to eat or brush and floss your teeth. This means that there are absolutely no dietary restrictions, and brushing and flossing are as easy as ever.

Are there any food or drink restrictions?

Invisalign aligners are removable, allowing you to take them out when you eat. As a result, there are no dietary restrictions when it comes to Invisalign, so you can continue eating all the foods you love!

To avoid staining your clear aligners, we suggest removing them to drink beverages such as wine, coffee, or dark soda beverages.

How many sets of aligners will I need?

The answer to this question will depend on the severity of your case.

Only your dentist will be able to give you an accurate estimate of how long your treatment will take, based on a careful evaluation of your bite during the initial consultation.

Can adults use Invisalign?

Yes! Anyone that has healthy teeth and gums can be a potential candidate for Invisalign.

Can teenagers use Invisalign?

Yes! Teens can be candidates for Invisalign. Invisalign has even created a line of aligners to help meet the unique needs of teenagers.

Invisalign Teen aligners have compliance indicators on them (small blue dots that fade away after the aligners have been worn for two full weeks) to help teens stay on track with their treatment.

They also come with eruption tabs that provide space for second molars and prevent them from growing crooked.

How often do I have to change my Invisalign aligners?

Most patients have to switch to their next set of aligners approximately every two weeks or so. Your dentist will inform you exactly how often you should change your aligners.

How do I clean my aligners?

Rinse your aligners every time you take them out to wash away dry saliva and plaque that could lead to dental decay and bad breath.

Soak your aligners using a denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, and/or the official Invisalign cleaning crystals.

Brush and floss your teeth prior to putting your aligners back in. Good oral hygiene is key to maintaining healthy teeth and avoiding cavities and decay. Failing to brush and floss properly can trap food debris and bacteria between your teeth and aligners, increasing your risk of bad breath and dental problems.

Clean your aligners with a clear, anti-bacterial soft soap. Clear anti-bacterial soap can be a good and inexpensive way to keep your aligners clear, fresh, and free from harmful bacteria.

Brush your aligners gently so you don't scratch them, and then rinse off the soap. Then you're done!

Can I play sports with Invisalign?

You can remove your Invisalign aligners to play sports without worrying about damaging them.

However, you need to remember that Invisalign aligners have to be worn for a minimum of 22 hours a day, so plan your time carefully.

You also suggest investing in a sports mouthguard to help protect your teeth, as orthodontic treatment can cause your teeth to loosen slightly as they shift into their new positions, and this could make them more susceptible to damage.

Can I play my instrument with Invisalign?

Yes! Just remove your aligners to practice playing your instrument, and put them back in when you're done.

How do I store my aligners?

Your Invisalign aligners come with a case where you should put your aligners when you are not wearing them to help keep them safe.

Can't find the answer you're looking for?

Ask us. We would be glad to answer any other questions that you have.

Book an appointment today with Northside Dental.

We're open from 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

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(902) 736-2738