Invisalign
Not sure if Invisalign clear aligners are for you? Worried about metal braces?
Want to know more about Invisalign before you decide?
We’re here to answer your questions. Find out how long Invisalign takes, what to eat, how to clean them, and more.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment used to straighten your teeth without metal braces. Invisalign aligners are custom-made, clear braces that cover your teeth and gently pull them into the proper position. Unlike most traditional braces, Invisalign is discreet (and easily removable).
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign uses clear aligners created from images and impressions taken from your mouth to change the position of your teeth. While traditional braces use wires to “pull” teeth into alignment, Invisalign aligns teeth by using a series of molds that gently move your teeth into position.
How long does Invisalign take?
Depending on your needs, straightening your teeth may take only a few trays (equivalent to a few weeks) up to the good part of one year. However, on average, most people take around six months to complete their treatment. Everyone is unique!
Does Invisalign hurt?
In our experience, there are very few instances of outright pain. When a new tray is put in, some patients report an achiness that typically subsides within a few hours. Everyone is different, but patients can take an OTC pain medication to help with initial achiness if need be.
Can I chew gum with Invisalign?
Chewing gum with Invisalign is not ideal, as the gum can often stick to the plastic. If you are a habitual gum chewer, we recommend removing the Invisalign briefly and chewing without the trays. Depending on your reason for chewing gum, there are alternative fluoride-based mouthwashes or mints to freshen your mouth without having to remove your Invisalign trays.
How to clean my Invisalign Clear Aligners?
This is a more involved question, but we’ll give a brief overview. You can find out more by contacting us.
- NEVER use toothpaste to clean your Invisalign clear aligners.
- Brush your trays whenever you brush and floss.
- Soak your aligners once a day.
- Brush and floss after each meal.
Can I eat with Invisalign?
It’s highly recommended to remove your Invisalign aligners while eating and drinking. Aim to wear your trays for at least 22 hours a day.
Is Invisalign faster than braces?
Generally, yes! Often times two years in metal braces equals roughly nine months in Invisalign. That means this treatment can work more than twice as fast with limited discomfort. Plus, the clear trays make treatment near-invisible!
Can Invisalign fix an underbite?
Yes, Invisalign aligners can fix certain types of underbite. Severe underbites sometimes require additional treatment options, including surgery.
Do you have financing available?
Yes! We give a 5% discount when paid in full, a 2.5% discount when paid in two payments, and we offer Care Credit. In some cases, we can arrange no-interest payments, in-house.
To find out more about our services or financial plan, contact us to arrange a visit.
Complete Family Dentistry provides for all your family dentistry needs in Bellevue, WA.