Your Edmonton Invisalign® Provider
Get answers to our most frequently asked questions about Invisalign clear aligners at Affinity Dental Mayfield Common in Edmonton.
Invisalign FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
- What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a series of clear, custom-fitted orthodontic aligners that straighten your teeth without metal wires or brackets.
Using advanced 3D computer imaging technology during the consultation process, we will create a treatment plan based on your unique smile.
A series of Invisalign clear aligners will be created to fit your teeth precisely during each stage of the Invisalign treatment process.
- How does the Invisalign process work?
Invisalign's clear plastic aligners move your teeth by small increments as your treatment progresses. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks before it is replaced by the next one in the series.
- How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Your dentist will determine the duration of your Invisalign treatment based on the nature and extent of your misalignment.
The duration of your treatment may be affected by the misalignment of your teeth or jaw, the shape of your bite, and the amount of movement required to correct the problem.
- What are Invisalign aligners made of?
Invisalign's orthodontic aligners are made from USP Class VI medical grade, high molecular weight polyurethane resins. They are BPA free.
- How often do I have to visit the dentist?
Invisalign aligners do not require adjustments or tightening. You simply switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks. This means that your dentist will only need to schedule brief appointments with you every 4 - 6 weeks.
During these appointments, your dentist will review your progress and oral health, answer your questions, and make adjustments to your treatment as required.
- What are the primary features of Invisalign?
Invisalign aligners are:
- A discreet, low profile treatment option
- Made of smooth plastic for enhanced comfort
- Do not require adjustment appointments
- Removable for eating, brushing and flossing
- How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost of your treatment will depend primarily on the duration of your treatment. The more severe the malocclusion, the more aligners you'll need, and therefore the more your treatment will cost.
The cost of Invisalign is comparable to the cost of traditional orthodontic treatment (braces).
- How will Invisalign fit my lifestyle?
You'll find that Invisalign fits very well into your day-to-day life.
You can take your Invisalign aligners out when you need to eat, or brush and floss your teeth. That means there are no dietary restrictions, and you can brush and floss the same way you always do.
- Are there any food or drink restrictions?
You can take your Invisalign aligners out to eat, so there are no dietary restrictions. You can continue to eat all the foods you love during treatment!
To avoid staining your clear aligners, we recommend removing them when you drink beverages such as wine, coffee, or dark soda.
- How many sets of aligners will I need?
This will depend on the severity of your misalignment.
Your dentist can give you an accurate estimate of how long your treatment will take, based on an evaluation of your bite.
- Can adults use Invisalign?
Yes! Anyone with healthy teeth and gums is a potential candidate for Invisalign. Age is not necessarily a barrier.
In fact, many adults are deciding to undergo orthodontic treatment in large part because discreet options like Invisalign have become available.
- Can teenagers use Invisalign?
Yes! Teens can definitely be candidates for Invisalign. Invisalign has even created a line of aligners called Invisalign Teen to meet the unique needs of teenagers.
Invisalign Teen aligners have compliance indicators on them. These small blue dots fade away over the two weeks that the aligners are worn to help teens stay on track with their treatment.
Invisalign Teen aligners also come with eruption tabs that provide space for second molars and prevent them from growing in crooked.
- How often do I have to change my Invisalign aligners?
Most patients change to their next set of aligners every other week. Your dentist will provide directions for exactly how often you should switch out your aligners.
- How do I clean my 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.
You can also soak your aligners using denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, and/or the official Invisalign cleaning crystals.
It is important to brush and floss your teeth before you put your aligners back in after eating. Proper oral hygiene is essential in maintaining healthy teeth and avoiding cavities and decay, especially during orthodontic treatment. When you fail to brush and floss properly, food debris and bacteria can become trapped between your teeth and aligner, increasing your risk of dental problems and bad breath.
Clean your aligners regularly 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 without staining them.
Brush your aligners gently so that you do not scratch them, and then rinse off the soap.
- Can I play sports with Invisalign?
Invisalign aligners are removable so you can play sports without worrying about damaging them.
However, you must plan your time carefully because Invisalign aligners should be kept in for a minimum of 22 hours a day.
You'll also want to invest in a sports mouth guard to protect your teeth, as orthodontic treatment can cause your teeth to loosen slightly as they shift into their new positions. This can make them more susceptible to damage.
- Can I play my instrument with Invisalign?
Yes! You can remove your aligners to practice playing your instrument, and put them back in when you're done.
- How do I store my aligners?
Your Invisalign aligners will come with a case, and this is where you should put your aligners whenever you take them out to keep them safe.
Can't find the answer you're looking for?
Get in touch. We'd be glad to answer any other questions you may have.