The 17 Most Common Invisalign Questions and Answers

1. How does Invisalign® work?

Invisalign® is a set of nearly invisible aligners that gradually shift your teeth over time into a correct position. It is often used to fix issues with your smile like overcrowding, overbite, underbite, crossbite, gaps or spaces between teeth, and crooked teeth. You may experience little to some discomfort when you begin using Invisalign® and when you replace the aligners every two weeks, but this is normal and should not disrupt your daily routine. You can also remove Invisalign® before eating and put them back in afterward.

2. How will my Invisalign® treatment begin?

Your treatment will begin by making an appointment to see us. Once you are in our office, we will scan your mouth and teeth via x-ray and take an impression or mold so a custom set of Invisalign® aligners will be made just for you. Our orthodontist in Johns Creek, Dr. Ricci, will also answer any questions you may have and give you instructions.

3. How long will I have to use my Invisalign® aligners?

It depends on how responsible you are with using your aligners. It could take around 8-10 months to complete the treatment. However, if you fail to wear your aligners regularly for at least 22 hours every day or fail to switch to the new set of aligners every two weeks, your treatment will take much longer. The length of treatment depends on the patient.

4. How much money will my treatment cost?

Invisalign® treatment can cost between $3,000 and $8,000 depending on what kind of treatment you need. Most dental insurance plans cover Invisalign®, so be sure to call your provider to ask them about it. That one phone call could save you thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses. Payment plans are also available to alleviate the cost. Invisalign treatment at Windsor Family Dental is priced at an affordable $3985. We offer flexible payment options, including a 50% down payment and easy monthly installments, making it accessible for adults seeking a discreet teeth-straightening solution.

5. Do I still need to visit the dentist during treatment?

Using Invisalign® reduces the number of visits to the dentist, unlike traditional braces. While you should at least schedule a check-up every six months, patients using Invisalign® should schedule an appointment every two or three months so the dentist can evaluate their progress. You may need changes to your treatment depending on how well you are keeping up with using your aligners and maintaining them.

6. What if I accidentally break or lose my aligners?

We understand that accidents happen. Aligners can be lost if you don’t place them in their case. They can also suffer damage if they take a hit. You must always use the Invisalign® case to store your aligners when you aren’t using them. Invisalign® is also not a substitute for a mouthguard, so be sure to use an actual mouthguard when playing sports. Keep your aligners clean by using correct cleaning methods such as soaking them in water with retainer cleaning tablets or brushing them using a soft brush and children’s toothpaste. If for some reason your Invisalign® trays break or you lose them, a replacement set can and should be obtained as soon as possible. Please be aware that there will be an extra cost, so it’s best to be very careful with your aligners to prevent damage or misplacement.

7. Will Invisalign® affect my diet?

Invisalign® trays will not affect your diet. Because they are removable, you can simply take them out before eating without having to worry about any restrictions. However, make sure you brush your teeth after eating to help keep food particles from lodging between your teeth or in your gums. Brushing also helps keep your aligners clean since food particles can stain them and foster the growth of bacteria.

8. What can disqualify me from getting Invisalign®?

This is one of the best questions to ask. While many patients do qualify for Invisalign®, there are some reasons why the dentist might disqualify others. If you smoke or use tobacco and refuse to quit during treatment, that would be a cause for disqualification. Patients whose teeth are smaller than normal or have teeth that are eroding or deformed may not be suitable to use Invisalign®. If you are also unwilling to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours every day, Invisalign® is not for you. In addition, Invisalign® may not be right for patients who have dental implants or bridges. Your dentist will be able to determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign® during the consultation.

9. Is Invisalign® better than conventional braces?

Traditional braces utilize metal brackets on each tooth held in place by wires and bands. Unlike Invisalign®, which is hardly noticeable by others, braces are visible and can be more uncomfortable. You cannot remove braces before you eat, which means there will be diet restrictions. Since you can’t remove braces, that also means your treatment will continue for the duration without interruption or setbacks due to not wearing them or not switching them out for new ones. Expenses are similar, although they vary from patient to patient and both are covered by insurance. The only real difference between the two methods is that Invisalign® is more convenient and discreet as long as you are willing to be responsible for your daily treatment. One method may be better for you than the other, but Invisalign® does offer more normalcy overall.

10. What happens if my teeth aren’t tracking properly with Invisalign® during treatment?

If your teeth are not tracking with Invisalign®, inform your orthodontist or dentist. It could be that your aligners are simply too tight and don’t want to sit on your teeth. There might be a delay in your treatment, but this problem can be addressed by getting “chewies,” a device you chew on to close air bubbles between the aligners.

11. Can the patient switch to braces if Invisalign® isn’t working?

Yes, in most cases a patient can switch to braces if Invisalign® is not working out for them. While ordinary dentists may not be able to do this, orthodontists are specially trained and have the experience, technology, and techniques to do this.

12. Will my orthodontist charge more for additional aligners, or does the treatment include unlimited aligners for up to 5 years?

The full price of Invisalign® generally includes additional aligners. Most patients will need refinements to complete treatment. And Invisalign® has a comprehensive option allowing for unlimited aligners for up to five years.

13. How does Invisalign® compare to traditional braces regarding comfort and visibility?

Invisalign® aligners are less noticeable and more comfortable than traditional metal braces. They offer a discreet solution with no sharp components.

14. What steps should I take if I accidentally break or lose my Invisalign® aligners?

In case of breakage or loss, it's crucial to contact your Invisalign Doctor promptly. A replacement set can be obtained, but there may be an extra cost.

15. Will Invisalign® treatment impact my daily diet?

Invisalign® trays are removable, allowing you to eat without restrictions. However, it's essential to brush your teeth after meals to maintain oral hygiene and prevent staining.

16. What factors may disqualify someone from getting Invisalign® treatment?

Smoking, teeth size, erosion, deformation, unwillingness to wear aligners consistently, and the presence of dental implants or bridges may disqualify someone from Invisalign®.

17. Is Invisalign® a better option than traditional braces, and how do they differ?

While both methods are effective, Invisalign® offers more convenience and discretion. The choice between the two depends on personal preferences and the willingness to adhere to daily treatment.