Invisalign Questions & Answers
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment designed to straighten teeth without traditional braces. There are different tools or methods used by an orthodontist in this regard.
Invisalign has been one of the favorites since it is custom-designed and has a very accurate and almost invisible appearance. It includes custom alignments that fit well on your tooth and gradually move them to the desired position.
For more information about Invisalign services in Manhattan Beach, please stay with us until the end of the article.
Table of Contents
Is Invisalign suitable for everyone?
Invisalign is an ideal for a variety of people, including:
- Individuals seeking orthodontic treatment but prefer a discreet option.
- Patients who prefer not to use traditional metal braces.
- People are sensitive about the appearance of their teeth.
- Adults are looking for a more delicate solution to straighten their teeth.
- Patients with mild to moderate orthodontic problems.
- Professionals, speakers, or anyone in public roles.
Who should not use Invisalign?
While Invisalign works for most people, it may not be ideal in some cases:
- Patients with severe dental inconsistencies.
- Those whose jaw position requires significant correction.
- People who have difficulty maintaining oral hygiene may find the removable nature of Invisalign challenging.
What are the benefits of Invisalign?
Many patients and specialists believe that Invisalign is the best invisible orthodontic treatment available due to the following benefits:
- Corrects a Range of IssuesInvisalign can address various alignment issues, from minor spacing problems to moderate tooth congestion.
- Nearly Invisible
Invisalign balances are made of transparent plastic, which makes them difficult to detect. This makes them ideal for professionals or anyone aware of their appearance during orthodontic treatment. - Removable
Aligners can be removed for eating meals or cleaning aligners. There are no food restrictions: Since you can remove the aligners during meals, Invisalign has no dietary restrictions. This flexibility is a significant advantage over traditional braces. - Easy to Clean
Cleaning Invisalign trays is simple. After removing them, you can brush your teeth and wash the aligners before placing them in your mouth. - Improved Oral Hygiene
Invisalign allows you to brush and floss your teeth as usual, which helps maintain oral hygiene during treatment. - Shorter Treatment Time
Invisalign usually requires a shorter treatment time than traditional braces, ranging from six months to a year for minor to moderate inconsistencies. Starting Invisalign while pregnant
It is safe for pregnant women, Invisalign is a good option, as it does not require frequent dental visits.- Ideal for Older Adults
Invisalign is an excellent solution for older people who want to correct dental problems without the hassle of traditional braces. - Affordable teeth whitening
Invisalign aligners can serve as a teeth whitening tray and offer a more affordable option to brighten your smile during treatment. - Fewer Office Visits
With Invisalign, you don’t need to see your orthodontist as often as traditional braces. This is incredibly convenient for busy professionals.
What are the disadvantages of Invisalign?
Despite the many advantages, you may know: Why do dentists not recommend Invisalign?
- Wearing aligners consistently and caring for and maintaining them requires discipline.
- May not be suitable for severe orthodontic cases.
- Can extend treatment time if not worn as instructed.
What types of Invisalign treatments are available?
Invisalign includes several treatment options, each designed for different orthodontic needs. The three most common types are:
- Standard Clear Invisalign:
Invisalign is often synonymous with transparent alignments and custom trays that align teeth properly. These aligners are practically invisible and offer a removable option for orthodontic treatment designed for adults with typical alignment issues. - Invisalign Teen:
Includes additional features like compliance indicators to ensure proper use.
How long does Invisalign take from start to finish?
Invisalign’s treatment time varies depending on the severity of the dental problems it addresses. Transparent alignments often require less time compared to ceramic or lingual braces. The average course of Invisalign therapy varies from six months to one year.
How Does the Invisalign® Treatment Work?
Consultation
During the initial consultation, the orthodontist will examine your teeth and may use X-rays to assess alignment problems.
3D Scanning
A digital scan of your teeth will be taken to create custom aligners. This step is quick and painless.
Custom Aligners
After performing 3D scans, custom alignments are created for your teeth. These aligners are designed to change your teeth to the proper alignment gradually. You will receive a set of alignments, each worn about two weeks before going to the next set.
Wearing the Aligners
You should use Invisalign for 20 to 22 hours daily. They should only be picked up when eating, drinking (anything other than water), brushing, or flossing. Constant wearing is crucial to ensuring that treatment remains on the right track.
Checkups
Invisalign requires fewer appointments than traditional braces. You usually visit your orthodontist every six to eight weeks to check for progress and get the next aligners.
Final Reforms
Your orthodontist may recommend minor corrections to perfect your smile at the end of treatment. These modifications may include additional alignments or minor adjustments to complete your treatment plan.
Preservatives
After treatment, you must use a retainer to maintain the results and prevent the teeth from returning to their previous position. The orthodontist will guide you on how often and for how long you need to use a preservative.
Can teens use Invisalign?
Invisalign is also available for teens and offers them a clear and comfortable way to straighten their teeth in the most pleasant years of their lives.
Invisalign for adolescents includes compliance indicators, such as small blue dots on the scales that fade when used correctly and help parents and orthodontists control wear time.
In addition, Invisalign for adolescents has characteristics that promote the development of the mouth of younger patients. For example, aligners can accommodate incoming molars and other dental changes that are still taking place.
What is the minimum age for Invisalign?
Invisalign officially has no minimum age requirement; however, we recommend beginning treatment by seven years. Seven is typically the youngest age when a child usually wears invisible braces.
However, putting those clear aligners into the mouths of very young children for, on average, 20-22 hours each day sometimes becomes problematic.
Why Invisalign is not Working?
Invisalign may not be effective for several reasons. One key factor is that aligners need to be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day.
Skipping changes or using them incorrectly can hinder progress. For severe jaw imbalances, traditional braces may be a better option.
Additionally, poor oral hygiene can affect treatment outcomes. To maximize results, patients should follow their orthodontist’s instructions, maintain good dental hygiene, and attend regular check-ups.
Cost of Invisalign
The cost of Invisalign depends on various factors, such as the complexity of the case, the patient’s age, and the duration of the treatment.
Costs typically start at a specific range and can increase based on individual needs. For an exact quote, it’s best to consult your orthodontist.
Invisalign ® in Manhattan Beach
Invisalign is a powerful orthodontic tool, but your treatment’s success depends mainly on your provider’s experience and skill.
At Beach Cities Dentistry, our orthodontists have a proven track record of delivering exceptional Invisalign results. We combine personal care with advanced technology to ensure effective and efficient treatment.
Complimentary Consultation
Book Your Appointment
Our Doctors
Meet Our Top-Notch Doctors
At Beach Cities Dentistry, our talented and experienced dental professionals work together to provide top-quality care for our patients.
Questions About Invisalign
Patients often have several common questions about the treatment process, costs, and results when considering Invisalign. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions to help you understand more about this innovative orthodontic option:
1. Does Invisalign hurt?
Invisalign balances are usually more comfortable than traditional braces. However, you may experience some mild pressure or discomfort when starting a new set of aligners.
If you want to know how long it takes for Invisalign to stop hurting, This is a sign that the aligners work to move your teeth, and the pain usually subsides after a few days.
2. Can I eat while wearing Invisalign
No, You must remove them while eating or drinking something else apart from water. It signifies your ability to enjoy all your favorite meals without any restrictions.
3. Will Invisalign affect my speech?
Yes, it affects the speech as well with Invisalign, but usually, it is the minor and temporary effects:
Lisp: The initial turning out of these sounds may develop a slight lisp because of the aligners changing how your tongue moves around your teeth: “s,” “sh,” or “z.”
Slow speech: For the first time, one may have slow speech and slurred words as he is not used to having something present to keep in his mouth.
Adjustment period: The adjustment period can vary from a few hours to several weeks.
4. How Should I Clean My Aligners?
Poor hygiene of the aligners may result in oral complications. Cleaning can be routinely done with the Invisalign cleaning system or softly done using a toothbrush and lukewarm water.
Hot water should be avoided since it distracts the plastic. Similarly, toothpaste is to be avoided since there is a scraping of the scales. Never use hot water as it may distract the plastic.
5. What if I lose an aligner?
If you lose the aligner, don’t panic. Call us at Beach Cities Dentistry to guide you through the next step. In many cases, you may be able to start wearing the next set of aligners prematurely.
However, it is always best to follow an orthodontist’s advice to ensure no disruption to your treatment.
So, you need to call your orthodontist as soon as possible when you lose it or if there is any damage to the aligner.
Depending on the stage of treatment, you may either be advised to remain in a previous series of aligners while awaiting the arrival of your new set or to proceed with the next series.
6. Can Invisalign treat all orthodontic issues?
Invisalign corrects orthodontic problems that include, but are not limited to, Orbite, underbite, crossbite, distance between teeth, and bustle. While more serious cases make traditional braces necessary, increased technology surrounding Invisalign has made the system effective enough to treat most patients.
Your orthodontist will examine your case and discuss whether or not Invisalign is suitable for you.
7. Is whitening of the teeth possible during Invisalign?
Many patients whiten their teeth during the treatment with Invisalign because aligners can act as whitening trays. You may ask your orthodontist if whitening is right for you during the treatment.
8. How do my teeth appear after Invisalign?
Fortunately, Invisalign is designed to deliver natural and beautiful results. Once your treatment is complete, your teeth will look much smoother and more level while maintaining natural beauty. Patients often report increased confidence in their smiles as this treatment corrects deviations, gaps, and bustles without visible braces. With Invisalign, the result is a smooth and attractive smile that enhances the health and appearance of the mouth.
9. How to remove Invisalign from teeth
Invisalign aligners are designed to fit nicely around your teeth but are usually easy to remove when you get them. Here are some tips:
Please start at the back: gently lift the alignment over the grinding teeth, as they are easier to grip.
Use your fingertips: avoid using nails that can damage the aligners. Fingertips provide a more controlled grip.
Work slowly: take time for the removal process.
Use a removal tool: if you have a problem, use a small tool to remove aligners.
With practice, it becomes quick and easy to remove Invisalign.
10. How long until you get used to Invisalign?
Most patients take one to two weeks to fully adapt to Invisalign aligners. During this time, you may experience mild discomfort or pressure as your teeth begin to move. Speech may also be slightly affected but usually improves after the first few days. Once your mouth is adapted, wearing aligners becomes more straightforward and routine.
11. How long does Invisalign start?
Invisalign usually starts working in the first few weeks of treatment. However, significant changes in the alignment of your teeth can take up to 6 weeks. Each aligner moves your teeth a bit, and you’ll see a gradual improvement as you progress through the sets.
12. How long does it take to understand Invisalign’s work?
While Invisalign immediately begins to move your teeth, visible changes often take 6 to 8 weeks to appear. The gradual movement is subtle initially, but you will see a significant difference in your smile over time. Your dentist may show you before and after images to track progress.
13. How long does Invisalign last?
The overall duration of Invisalign treatment varies based on individual cases, but most patients complete their treatment within 12 to 18 months.
Minor adjustments require six months, while more complex cases may take up to 2 years. Your dentist will give you a more accurate estimate based on your treatment plan.
14. How Does Invisalign Look?
Invisalign aligners are made of clear, BPA-free plastic. They are custom-designed to fit tight over the teeth and thus are nearly invisible. Unlike traditional metal braces, they are translucent-most will only know a person is wearing them if they look very closely.
This trait has made Invisalign a popular choice among adults and teens for inconspicuously straightening teeth.
Why choose Invisalign treatment at Beach Cities Dentistry?
At Beach Cities Dentistry in Manhattan Beach, California, we specialize in providing appropriate orthodontic care, including Invisalign.
Schedule Your Invisalign Consultation Today
Invisalign has revolutionized the field of orthodontics. These have made the treatment of patients very discreet, non-invasive, and effective. Whether it is a teenager or even an adult wanting to be discreet about their poorly aligned teeth, the best option is Invisalign. Start your journey toward a straighter and healthier smile today.
At Beach Cities Dentistry in Manhattan Beach, we’re committed to the highest quality of care and ensuring you are comfortable every step of the way.
From teenagers seeking an almost invisible way to straighten their teeth to adults seeking an alternative to traditional metal braces, Invisalign may be your perfect fit.
Call our office today to schedule your Invisalign consultation and start the journey to your new smile.
$79 Exam
& X-Ray*
