As one of the leading providers of Invisalign in Huntersville, we hear a lot of questions about this orthodontic treatment option from our patients. It’s easy to see why it’s so popular—instead of metal brackets and wires, Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners to gently shift your teeth into the positions we plan. Below, we answer some of the most common Invisalign questions people have.
Am I a candidate for Invisalign treatment?
We can’t answer this question without seeing your teeth in person! Generally speaking, most patients are good candidates for Invisalign, but there are some complex cases that are a better fit for traditional braces.
Is Invisalign expensive?
You might be surprised to learn that the cost of Invisalign is often comparable to metal braces! And compared to other discreet orthodontic options like ceramic (or clear) braces and lingual braces, Invisalign is actually less expensive. Your dental insurance may also provide coverage for some of the costs of Invisalign.
Does Invisalign work as well as traditional metal braces?
Yes, Invisalign works differently, but it yields the same results—a beautiful smile!
What are the benefits of Invisalign over other options?
Invisalign has a number of advantages over traditional braces, including:
- Brushing and flossing is easier because you can remove your aligners.
- Friends, co-workers, and classmates won’t even notice your aligners since they’re virtually invisible.
- There are no foods that are off-limits with Invisalign. Unlike with braces, you can eat whatever you want, including popcorn, gum, corn-on-the-cob, and nuts.
- Your aligners are made with smooth, thin plastic, causing little-to-no irritation, making them more comfortable than braces.
How long do I have to wear my aligners each day?
It’s important to keep in mind that your aligners only work when you’re wearing them. Invisalign recommends keeping them in for 20 to 22 hours a day, but we suggest simply removing them when you have to eat, floss, or brush. If you remove your aligners often and leave them out for an extended period of time, you can slow down your treatment.
How should I clean my aligners?
Invisalign has an excellent solution for cleaning aligners, the Invisalign Cleaning System. This removes both food debris and bacteria without causing damage. As an alternative, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush them with a small squirt of dish soap, then rinse them in lukewarm water. (Never rinse your Invisalign aligners in hot water, as it can warp the plastic.)
Do Invisalign results last a lifetime?
Invisalign is just like any other orthodontic treatment—your results will last as long as you maintain them. This means wearing your retainers as instructed. Luckily, Invisalign Vivera retainers make it easy. They look and feel just like your Invisalign aligners, with the main difference being that the material is slightly thicker to ensure that they last longer than your aligners, which are designed to be used for only two weeks. You’ll wear them all day at first, then at nights only, and eventually only a few nights a week.
Where can I get Invisalign in Huntersville?
We’d love to see you at our office for a consultation! Contact us today at 704-875-1621 to schedule an appointment at The Smile Architects.