Invisalign FAQs

Read the Answers to Our Most Frequently Asked Questions 

Have questions about Invisalign clear aligners at Peterborough Dental Clinic? These are some of the most frequently asked questions we've received from our patients.

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Invisalign FAQs

Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions.

• What are Invisalign clear aligners?

  Invisalign clear aligners are a series of clear, custom-fitted aligners designed to straighten your teeth, minus the metal wires or brackets that come with braces. 

  During the consultation process, we develop a treatment plan around your unique smile.

  A series of customized clear aligners will be produced to fit your teeth specifically during each stage of the Invisalign treatment process. 

• How does the Invisalign process work?

  As your treatment continues, Invisalign's clear plastic aligners will move your teeth in small increments. You will wear each aligner for approximately two weeks before replacing it with the next one in the series. 

  This process will persist until your teeth are in their correct prescribed positions. The duration of your Invisalign treatment will depend on your dentist's assessment and your specific requirements. 

• How long does Invisalign treatment take?

  Your specific needs are identified by your dentist. Based on this, he or she will determine the duration of your Invisalign treatment. 

  Factors that may determine the duration of your treatment include the shape of your bite, misalignment of your jaw or teeth, and the amount of movement required to correct the issue. 

• What are Invisalign aligners made of?

  Invisalign aligners are BPA-free and are manufactured with USP Class VI medical-grade, high molecular weight, polyurethane resins.

• How often do I have to visit the dentist?

  Invisalign aligners require no adjustment or tightening - you'll just switch to a new set of aligners every 2 weeks. Therefore, your dentist will see you briefly every 4 to 6 weeks. 

  During your appointments, your dentist will review your progress and overall oral health, answer any questions you may have, and adjust your treatment as needed.

• What are the primary features of Invisalign?

  Invisalign aligners are:

  • More time-efficient, as they do not require appointments for adjustments
  • Removable for blushing and flossing
  • A more discreet solution than traditional braces
  • Smoothly constructed for enhanced comfort
• How much does Invisalign cost?

  The severity of your case and the duration of your treatment will determine the cost. For example, the more severe the misalignment, the more aligners you'll require and the more your treatment will cost.

  In many cases, the cost of Invisalign is comparable to that of traditional orthodontic treatment (braces).

• How will Invisalign fit my lifestyle?

  You may find that Invisalign adapts well to your busy day-to-day routine. 

  You can remove your aligners whenever you need to brush, floss your teeth, or eat. This means absolutely no dietary restrictions. Plus, brushing and flossing are just as easy as ever.

• Are there any food or drink restrictions?

  Since Invisalign aligners are removable, you may take them out to eat. You won't deal with any dietary restrictions when it comes to Invisalign, so you will still be able to eat all your favourite foods.

  when you consume beverages such as wine, coffee or dark soda, we recommend removing your clear aligners to avoid staining them.

• How many sets of aligners will I need?

  The severity of your misalignment will determine the answer to this question. 

  Your dentist will be able to carefully evaluate your bite during your initial consultation, then provide you with an accurate estimate of how long your treatment will take.

• Can adults use Invisalign?

  Yes! Anyone with healthy teeth and gums is a potential candidate for Invisalign. 

  More and more adults are opting for orthodontic treatment these days, partly because options such as Invisalign have become available.

• Can teenagers use Invisalign?

  Yes! Teens can be candidates for Invisalign. Invisalign has produced a line of aligners to meet teenagers' unique needs. 

  Invisalign Teen Aligners have compliance indicators on them (small blue dots which fade away after the aligners have been worn for 2 full weeks) to assist teens in staying on track with their treatment. 

  They also come with eruption tabs, which allow space for second molars to keep them from growing crooked.

• How often do I have to change my Invisalign aligners?

  Most patients change their aligners approximately every 2 weeks. You will receive specific instructions on how often you should switch out your aligners from your dentist.

• How do I clean my aligners?

  Each time you remove your aligners, you should rinse them to wash away dry saliva and plaque that can result in bad breath and dental decay. 

  Soak your aligners in denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, and/or official Invisalign cleaning crystals. 

  Brush and floss your teeth before you put your aligners back in. Good oral hygiene is critical to keeping your teeth healthy and avoiding cavities and decay, Failing to brush or floss properly may trap food bacteria and debris between your aligners and your teeth, increasing your risk of dental problems and bad breath. 

  Use a clear, anti-bacterial soft soap to clean your aligners. This soap is a great, inexpensive way to keep your aligners fresh, clear, and free from bacteria that may harm them. 

  Gently brush your aligners so they don't get scratched, then rinse the soap off. Now you're done. 

• Can I play sports with Invisalign?

  Since Invisalign aligners are removable, you can play sports without being concerned that you'll cause damage to your aligners. 

  Just keep in mind that you should plan your time carefully, as you must keep your Invisalign aligners in for a minimum of 22 hours a day.

  We also recommend protecting your teeth by investing in a sports mouth guard, since your teeth may loosen slightly with orthodontic treatment as they shift into new positions, which can make them more susceptible to damage. 

• Can I play my instrument with Invisalign?

  Yes! Just remove your aligners when you need to practice playing your instrument, then put them back in when you're done. 

• How do I store my aligners?

  You will receive a case with your Invisalign aligners, and this is where you should put your aligners whenever you take them out to protect them.

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