Invisalign FAQs
Read the Answers to Our Most Frequently Asked Questions
Find out more about Invisalign clear aligners from Uptowne Dental Centre in Toronto.
Invisalign FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
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What is Invisalign?
This series of clear, custom-fitted aligners is designed to straighten your teeth without brackets or metal wires.
During the consultation process, we will use 3D computer imaging technology to create a custom treatment plan based on your smile goals.
A series of custom clear aligners will then be manufactured to fit your teeth precisely during each stage of the Invisalign treatment process.
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How does the Invisalign process work?
During your treatment, each set of clear aligners will shift your teeth in very small increments. You'll wear each aligner for about two weeks before replacing it with the next one in the series.
You will continue to change to a new set for the entire duration of your treatment until your teeth are in their prescribed positions. The length of your Invisalign treatment will be determined by your dentist based on your specific requirements.
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How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Your dentist will assess your specific needs to determine the duration of your Invisalign treatment based on several factors.
Some of these factors may include the misalignment of your teeth or jaw, the shape of your bite, and the amount of movement required to correct the issue.
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What are Invisalign aligners made of?
Invisalign clear aligners are made of medical-grade, high-molecular-weight thermoplastic polymers that are free of parabens, Bisphenol A (BPA), and latex.
These materials are approved by the FDA and considered safe for long-term use inside the human body.
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How often do I have to visit the dentist?
Invisalign aligners do not require any adjustments or tightening, since your treatment instead involves simply switching to a new set of aligners every two weeks.
However, you will need to have brief checkup appointments with your dentist every four to six weeks.
During these appointments, your dentist will take the opportunity to review your progress and general oral health, answer your questions, and adjust your treatment as required.
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What are the primary features of Invisalign?
The features of Invisalign include:
- A discreet, low-profile appearance
- Smooth construction for a more comfortable fit
- Do not require adjustment appointments
- Removable for eating, brushing and flossing
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How much does Invisalign cost?
The overall cost of your Invisalign treatment will depend on several different factors. For instance, the more severe your misalignment is, the more aligners you'll need. This can impact the cost of your treatment.
In many cases, the cost of Invisalign is comparable to that of traditional orthodontic treatment (braces).
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How will Invisalign fit my lifestyle?
If you are considering Invisalign for your treatment, you may be surprised to learn that patients of all ages find that clear aligners fit comfortably into day-to-day life.
You will be able to remove your aligners whenever you need to eat, drink, brush, and floss. This means you'll have no dietary restrictions, and you'll be able to brush and floss thoroughly and consistently.
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Are there any food or drink restrictions?
One of Invisalign's many features is the ability to remove them when you eat. As a result, there are no dietary restrictions when it comes to using these clear aligners, so you can continue to eat all of your favourite foods.
To avoid staining your clear aligners, we recommend removing them when you consume beverages such as wine, coffee, or dark sodas.
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How many sets of aligners will I need?
The severity of your orthodontic issues will determine the number of sets of clear aligners you'll require.
Your dentist can provide you with an estimate of how many aligners you'll need based on a careful evaluation of your bite during an initial consultation.
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Can adults use Invisalign?
Definitely. Any adult who has healthy teeth and gums may consider treatment with Invisalign.
More and more adults are deciding to undergo orthodontic treatment these days, in large part because options like Invisalign have become available.
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Can teenagers use Invisalign?
Yes. Invisalign is a popular choice among teenagers looking to have orthodontic treatment. Invisalign has even created a line of clear aligners specifically for teens.
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. This can help prevent these molars from growing in on an angle.
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How often do I have to change my Invisalign aligners?
Typically, most patients switch to their next set of aligners every two weeks or so. Your dentist will provide you with a detailed treatment plan, which will specify how often you should switch out your aligners.
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How do I clean my aligners?
There are a few steps you can follow to properly clean your Invisalign clear aligners:
- Rinse your aligners each time you remove them to wash away dry saliva and plaque that can result in dental decay and bad breath.
- Soak your aligners using 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 key 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 aligner, increasing your risk of dental problems and bad breath.
- Clean your aligners with a clear, anti-bacterial soft soap. Clear anti-bacterial soap is an excellent and inexpensive way to keep your aligners clear, fresh, and free from harmful bacteria.
- Rinse them thoroughly and put them back in.
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Can I play sports with Invisalign?
You can remove your aligners when you are playing sports to help prevent them from becoming damaged.
It is important to keep in mind that you'll need to wear Invisalign for at least 22 hours each day, so be mindful of this when planning sports and other activities.
You'll also want to invest in a sports mouth guard to protect your teeth. Orthodontic treatment can cause your teeth to loosen slightly as they shift into their new positions, making them more susceptible to damage.
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Can I play my instrument with Invisalign?
Yes. You can simply remove the aligners while you are playing your instrument. Don't forget to clean them before popping them back in.
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How do I store my aligners?
Your Invisalign aligners will come with a storage case. You should keep them in this case any time you need to take them out. This will help protect them and reduce the risk of loss or damage.
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