How does Invisalign work?+
Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners that gradually move your teeth into the desired position. You wear each set of aligners for about 1-2 weeks before switching to the next set in the series. The aligners are virtually invisible and removable for eating, drinking, and cleaning.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?+
Most Invisalign treatments take 12-18 months, but this varies depending on the complexity of your case. Some minor corrections can be completed in as little as 6 months, while more complex cases may take up to 24 months. We'll give you a personalized timeline during your consultation.
Am I a good candidate for Invisalign?+
Invisalign can treat most common orthodontic issues including crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. The best way to determine if you're a candidate is through a consultation where we'll examine your teeth and discuss your goals. Most adults and teens are excellent candidates for Invisalign.
How much does Invisalign cost?+
Invisalign treatment typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on the complexity of your case. We'll give you an exact quote at your free consultation. We also accept most PPO insurance plans and offer financing options through Sunbit to make treatment affordable.
Will Invisalign affect my speech?+
Most patients experience little to no speech changes with Invisalign. Some may notice a slight lisp for the first few days as they adjust to wearing the aligners, but this typically resolves quickly as you get used to them. The clear aligners are much less likely to affect speech than traditional metal braces.
How often do I need to wear my Invisalign aligners?+
For best results, you should wear your Invisalign aligners 20-22 hours per day, only removing them for eating, drinking (except water), brushing, and flossing. Consistent wear is crucial for staying on track with your treatment timeline and achieving optimal results.
Can I eat and drink with Invisalign aligners in?+
You should remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water. This prevents staining and damage to the aligners. After eating, brush your teeth (or at least rinse well) before putting your aligners back in to maintain good oral hygiene.
How do I clean my Invisalign aligners?+
Clean your aligners daily by brushing them gently with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water. You can also use Invisalign cleaning crystals or denture cleaner. Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic, and don't use toothpaste, which can be abrasive and cause scratches.
What happens after my Invisalign treatment is complete?+
After completing your Invisalign treatment, you'll need to wear retainers to maintain your new smile. We typically recommend wearing retainers full-time for the first few months, then transitioning to nighttime wear. Retainers are included in our Invisalign treatment packages.
Is Invisalign painful?+
Most patients experience mild discomfort or pressure when switching to a new set of aligners, which is normal and indicates the treatment is working. This discomfort is typically much less than traditional braces and usually subsides within a day or two. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help if needed.
Can I play sports or musical instruments with Invisalign?+
Yes! One of the advantages of Invisalign is that you can remove the aligners for sports or playing musical instruments if needed. For contact sports, we recommend using a mouthguard. Just remember to wear your aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours per day to stay on track with treatment.
Do you offer payment plans for Invisalign?+
Absolutely! We offer financing through Sunbit with an 85% approval rate, even for credit scores as low as 500. We also have in-house payment plans and accept most PPO insurance plans. Don't let cost prevent you from getting the smile you've always wanted - we'll work with you to make Invisalign affordable.