Invisalign FAQs
Here you can read the answers to our most frequently asked questions regarding treatment with Invisalign clear aligners at Riverside Dental in Sydney River.
Invisalign FAQs
Below are the answers to our most frequently asked questions about Invisalign.
What are Invisalign clear aligners?
Treatment with Invisalign clear aligners consists of a series of clear, custom-fitted aligners that straighten your teeth without the use of metal wires or brackets.
Your dentist uses 3D computer imaging technology in the consultation process to create a treatment plan based on your unique smile.
A series of custom clear aligners will be manufactured to fit your teeth precisely during each stage of your Invisalign treatment.
How does the Invisalign process work?
Invisalign's clear plastic aligners are designed to move your teeth in small increments throughout your treatment. You'll wear each aligner for an estimated 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 duration of your Invisalign treatment will be based on your specific needs as determined by your dentist.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Your dentist will determine the length of your Invisalign treatment based on your specific needs.
Some elements that may 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 correct the problem.
What are Invisalign aligners made of?
The Invisalign aligners are made with USP Class VI medical-grade, high molecular weight, polyurethane resins. They are BPA-free.
How often do I have to visit the dentist?
Because Invisalign aligners don't require adjustments or tightening you just have to switch to a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks. Your dentist will schedule brief appointments with you every 4 - 6 weeks.
During these appointments, your dentist will take the time 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 discreet treatment option
- Smooth construction to help improve comfort
- Do not require adjustment appointments
- Removable for eating, brushing, and flossing
How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost of your treatment will depend on the severity of your case and the duration of your treatment. For instance, 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 flexible financing options to support your Invisalign treatment journey. Speak to your dentist or click here to learn more.
How will Invisalign fit my lifestyle?
You may find that Invisalign fits very comfortably into your day-to-day life.
You can take your aligners out whenever you need to eat or brush and floss your teeth. That means absolutely no dietary restrictions, and brushing and flossing are just as easy as ever.
Are there any food or drink restrictions?
Invisalign aligners are removable so you can take them out to eat. As a result, there are no dietary restrictions with Invisalign, so you can keep eating all your favourite foods!
To avoid staining your clear aligners, we highly 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 misalignment.
Only your dentist can tell you an estimate of how long your treatment will be, based on a careful evaluation of your bite during the initial consultation.
Can adults use Invisalign?
Yes! Anyone that has healthy teeth and gums could be a potential candidate for Invisalign.
Can teenagers use Invisalign?
Yes! Teens can be candidates for Invisalign. In fact, Invisalign has released a line of aligners designed 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 in crooked.
How often do I have to change my Invisalign aligners?
Most patients change to their next set of aligners about every two weeks. Your dentist will tell you exactly how often you should switch 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 can 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 before you put your aligners back in. Good oral hygiene is essential 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 dental issues and bad breath.
Clean your aligners with a clear, anti-bacterial soft soap. Clear anti-bacterial soap can be an excellent and inexpensive way to keep your aligners clear, fresh, and free from harmful bacteria.
Brush your aligners gently so as not to scratch them, and then rinse away the soap. Then you're done!
Can I play sports with Invisalign?
You can take your Invisalign aligners out to play sports so you don't have to worry about damaging your aligners.
However, you need to keep in mind that Invisalign aligners must be kept in for at least 22 hours a day, so manage your time carefully.
You'll also want to invest in a sports mouthguard to keep your teeth safe, as orthodontic treatment can make your teeth slightly loosen as they gradually move into their new positions, making them more susceptible to damage.
Can I play my instrument with Invisalign?
Yes! Just remove your aligners to play your instrument, and place them back on when you're done.
How do I store my aligners?
You will receive a case with your Invisalign aligners. You should put your aligners, in this case, every time you take them out to keep them safe.
Don't see the answer you are looking for?
Contact us today. Our team can answer any other questions you might have.