Invisalign FAQ’s
Wish you could straighten teeth without traditional metal braces? Ask our dentist if you're a candidate for Invisalign® clear aligners. These aligners are discreet so most people won't even realize you're wearing them.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get about Invisalign.
Do Invisalign Braces Work?
Yes! Invisalign exerts enough pressure on teeth to move them into their final positions. In other words, Invisalign helps you achieve better teeth alignment.
At each appointment, our dentist will check your progress. They'll then give you your next set of aligners in the series when you’re ready.
You'll wear each set of for about two weeks. But this depends on the complexity of your case and how diligent you are about wearing your aligners.
Is Invisalign as Good as Metal Braces?
Each patient has different orthodontic needs. That's why it's important that you schedule a consultation with our dentist. During your appointment, they'll determine if you're a candidate for Invisalign.
Certain advances in Invisalign technology have made it possible to treat complex cases. For example, our dentist may need to use . These attachments are small tooth-colored bumps that we bond to the surface of your teeth. These bumps then push against your aligners.
Learn More:5 Reasons to Choose Invisalign Over Braces →
How Long Will I Need Invisalign?
How long you’ll need Invisalign braces will depend on the complexity of your case. During your consultation, your dentist will walk you through your treatment plan. That way, you know what to expect.
In general, Invisalign patients finish their treatment within 12 to 18 months. But you may need Invisalign for longer if you don't wear your aligners 20 to 22 hours per day.
What are the Benefits of Invisalign?
One of the main benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are discreet. Most people won't even realize you're wearing them unless they're standing close.
You can also remove Invisalign aligners to eat, brush your teeth, and floss. This makes it easier to practice good oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment.
How Long Will I Need to Wear My Aligners Per Day?
You will need to wear Invisalign 20 to 22 hours every day to get the results you want. Your clear aligners should only be out of your mouth when you eat, drink, brush, and floss. Otherwise, it’ll take longer for you to achieve a straight, attractive smile. Invisalign only works as long as you wear your aligners.
Does Invisalign Hurt?
You may experience mild discomfort when you first wear a new set of aligners. But it's important to remember that this discomfort is temporary.
Your aligners move your teeth by exerting constant, gentle pressure. As such, it's normal to feel this pressure on your teeth at first. But the pressure will go away the more you wear your aligners, usually within 24 hours.
In the meantime, you may take over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce any discomfort.
Do I Need to Avoid Certain Foods During Invisalign Treatment?
You'll be able to remove your clear aligners to eat. This means that you can enjoy an unlimited diet during Invisalign treatment.
Many of our patients appreciate being able to eat foods that would be too sticky or hard to chew for braces. Keep in mind that you will need to brush your teeth after eating to avoid staining your clear aligners.
Can You Drink Coffee with Invisalign?
Coffee, tea, and other hot beverages can warp the plastic material of your aligners. This is why we recommend drinking coffee with a meal while your aligners are already out of your mouth. Doing this also means you won’t have to worry about staining your clear aligners.
After meals, make sure you remember to brush your teeth. Otherwise, you'll end up staining your clear aligners.
Do You Lose Weight with Invisalign?
Invisalign is NOT a weight-loss aid. But you may lose weight with Invisalign because it’s more difficult to snack between meals.
During Invisalign treatment, it’s essential that you wear your aligners 20 to 22 hours a day. Otherwise, it’ll take longer to move your teeth into their final positions. You’ll also need to brush your teeth after eating so you don’t stain your Invisalign clear aligners.
Both of these factors tend to discourage snacking throughout the day.
Does Invisalign Give You a Lisp?
You may have a small lisp when you first start wearing your aligners. But it should disappear once you get used to speaking around your new oral appliance.
Invisalign is made out of smooth, thin plastic. As such, you'll have no problems speaking while wearing your aligners.
Can You Kiss with Invisalign?
Yes, you’ll be able to kiss while wearing Invisalign. Invisalign aligners are smooth and fit tight around your teeth. This means you won’t have to worry about your aligners slipping during a romantic moment. Although, you may want to let your partner know that you’re wearing Invisalign ahead of time.
Request an Appointment With Us
Dr. Dodds is an Invisalign dentist in Grand Rapids, MI. As such, she'd be more than happy to help you achieve your smile goals.
To request an appointment, please call Renew Family Dental at (616) 245-3205. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our office will reach out to you soon.
This blog post has been updated.