Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign Clear Aligners
Q. How often do I need to wear Invisalign aligners?
A. You must wear your aligners for up to 22 hours daily. You may remove them for eating, drinking, and regular oral hygiene.
Q. Are there any food restrictions with Invisalign treatment?
A. No. Unlike braces, you can eat whatever you like as long as you remove the aligners before eating. Before putting the aligners back in, brush your teeth and clean the aligners.
Q. Will Invisalign aligners affect my speech?
A. Like any orthodontic treatment, there’s a short adjustment period. The more you speak with the aligners on, the faster you’ll adjust.
Q. Is Invisalign treatment uncomfortable?
A. You may feel some pressure or minor discomfort for a day or two after switching to a new set of aligners. This is a sign that your teeth are moving into their planned positions.
Q. Can I chew gum with Invisalign?
A. It’s recommended that you remove your aligners before chewing gum, as gum can stick to the aligners.
Q. Can I smoke while wearing Invisalign aligners?
A. Smoking with aligners is discouraged, as cigarette smoke can discolor and stain them.
Q. How should I clean my Invisalign aligners?
A. Brush them gently with toothpaste and rinse them daily to keep them fresh and clear.
Q. How often do I visit the orthodontist during Invisalign treatment?
A. Typically, checkups are scheduled every five to six weeks to ensure your Invisalign treatment is progressing as planned.
Q. What happens after Invisalign treatment is complete? Do I need retainers?
A. Yes. All orthodontic patients should wear retainers at night indefinitely. Sleeping with retainers keeps your bite healthy and maintains your new smile.
Q. How long does Invisalign treatment take?
A. Treatment time varies depending on the complexity of your case. Invisalign can often straighten teeth in 6 to 18 months, sometimes faster than traditional braces.
Q. Is Invisalign right for kids or teens?
A. Yes, Invisalign can work for kids and teens whose teeth, including second molars, have fully erupted.
Q. Is Invisalign covered by insurance?
A. Many dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for Invisalign, similar to braces. Our team will help verify your benefits and maximize coverage.
Q. How quickly will I see results with Invisalign?
A. Some patients notice subtle changes in just a few weeks, though full results depend on your individual treatment plan.
Q. Can Invisalign fix gaps, crowding, or bite issues?
A. Yes, Invisalign can effectively correct common orthodontic problems, including spacing, crowding, overbites, underbites, and crossbites in many cases.