Invisalign FAQ: All Your Questions Answered

We understand that Invisalign treatment might raise some question marks – after all, clear aligners are quite different to braces in both form and function. 

To that end, we’ve compiled this list of FAQs to help you understand the treatment a little better. Gain a clearer understanding of Invisalign and how it can help you achieve greater confidence in your smile!

head and shoulders portrait of woman in sweater in the snow

What is Invisalign?

With the use of clear aligners that are custom-made to fit your teeth, Invisalign is a teeth straightening treatment that gradually and gently straightens your smile into the desired alignment. These clear aligners can be removed at any time and are less conspicuous than traditional braces as well.

 

How does Invisalign work?

Whereas braces require the input of an orthodontist, Invisalign treatment can be administered by a certified dentist. After an initial consultation, they will take a 3D scan of your smile to digitally design a set of clear aligners that perfectly matches your teeth shape and placement. These aligners will be administered in stages to gradually straighten your teeth

 

Just as braces require periodic tightening, your Invisalign treatment will require a new set of aligners every few weeks to ensure you continue to move towards your ideal smile. To learn more about how Invisalign teeth straightening works, see the full guide on our blog.

How much does Invisalign cost?

The price of your Invisalign treatment will depend on the complexity of your case, but as a rule of thumb, Invisalign generally costs around the same as regular braces.

 

A young lady smiling in the rain

Does Invisalign hurt?

Some slight discomfort during the first few days of each set of aligners is to be expected, but there shouldn’t be any intense pain associated with the treatment. 

Is Invisalign better than braces?

Invisalign affords a variety of conveniences and advantages that traditional braces don’t.

  • Convenience. Your dentist can perform Invisalign treatment from start to finish, mitigating the need to see an orthodontist
  • Ease of use. Your clear aligners can be removed when eating or drinking at any time, allowing you to clean your teeth as normal and continue to eat all your favourite foods!
  • Unnoticeable. Invisalign clear aligners are conspicuous throughout your treatment, giving you a straighter smile without the hassle of traditional braces.
  • Comfort. Classic braces are notorious for being extremely painful at times. Invisalign does away with overtightened straightening and snapping elastic bands by being perfectly designed according to your unique treatment plan. 

 

teeth bracesCan I get Invisalign if I’ve had braces or other dental work?

Absolutely. Invisalign is a fantastic solution for patients who have had braces but find that their teeth have shifted away from the corrected alignment. 

If you’ve had dental work like veneers or crowns, talk to your dentist – they will be able to advise you on whether the treatment is compliant with your existing dental work.

How do I clean my teeth when using clear aligners?

As normal! Simply remove your aligners to brush your teeth as you usually would. Since your aligners will be out while you’re eating, it’s recommended that you brush your teeth after each meal before putting them back in.

As for your aligners themselves, cleaning them is easy – simply run them under lukewarm water, scrub them gently with a brush and use the special cleaning material provided by your dentist to rid them of any bacteria or food residue.

 

Got Another Question? Get in Touch with a Certified Bristol Dentist

Are you thinking Invisalign treatment is suitable for you but need to ask more questions? Get in touch with The Dentists Old Market to speak to one of our friendly and knowledgeable team members. We’ll be able to address your queries and get you started with an initial consultation should you decide to explore Invisalign further!

Contact us or book an appointment today. 

If you’d like to find out about our comprehensive practice plan, follow the link or speak to one of our advisors when you get in touch.