7 things to know before getting Invisalign

1. How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign works by you wearing a series of clear trays, also known as aligners, for two weeks per tray. The aligners are manufactured so each one is slightly straighter than the previous one. Teeth normally move at 0.2mm per aligner.

2. Will Invisalign work for me?

Invisalign works for moderately crowded or spaced teeth. It is not recommended for people with severe bite problems. A consultation with your dentist is the first step to find out if there is any underlying bite problems in addition to crooked teeth.

3. How long will Invisalign treatment take?

Generally speaking, it takes longer to see changes with Invisalign than with braces. It also depends on whether you wear your aligners for the recommended 22 hours a day. An “Invisalign full” case can take up to 2 years whereas an “Invisalign Lite” can take up to 10 months.

4. How much does Invisalign cost?

The cost varies based on the complexity and the length of the treatment. The average fee is $4,500 to $6,500. This includes orthodontic records, “ClinCheck”-virtual simulation of final teeth position, complete set of aligners (14-25), refinement aligners, and retainers.

5. What does it feel like to be wearing Invisalign aligners?

Initially it will feel like wearing mini mouthguards. Your speech might be temporarily affected. It takes 5-10 weeks to get used to wearing them comfortably. You can drink beverages but not eat solid foods while wearing the Invisalign. So it’s time to cut down the snacking habit!

6. What happens if my teeth are still not straight after the full treatment?

Sometimes we don’t get the perfect results as shown in the virtual simulation due to physiological variation, patients’ compliance, accuracy of the impression moulds, etc.

A set of fresh impression moulds can be taken mid-treatment to make “refinement aligners” and get you to use “chewie” to help sitting the aligners more tightly. Otherwise, short-term braces of 1-3 months can be placed at a reasonable additional cost.

7. How do I keep my teeth straight after the treatment?

You will be given either a set of clear overlay retainers or fixed retainer wires behind the teeth or both at the completion of the treatment. Retention is for life! Your teeth will stay straight for as long as you retain them.

As a bonus, you can use the retainers as bleaching trays to enhance the appearance of your new smile.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]