Invisalign FAQs
Read Through the Answers to Our Most Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about Invisalign clear aligners from Southwest Dental Care in London.
Invisalign FAQs
Learn the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
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What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a series of clear, custom-fitted orthodontic aligners that can straighten your teeth without metal wires or brackets.
Using our advanced 3D computer imaging technology during the consultation process, we will create a personalized treatment plan specifically for your unique smile.
A series of custom aligners will then be manufactured to fit your teeth precisely throughout each stage of your Invisalign treatment.
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How does the Invisalign process work?
Your Invisalign clear plastic aligners are designed to move your teeth in tiny increments as your treatment progresses. Simply wear each aligner for about two weeks then swap it out for the next one in the series.
Continue this process until your teeth are in their prescribed, corrected positions. How long your Invisalign treatment should take will be determined by your dentist based on your smile's needs.
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How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Your dentist will determine the duration of your Invisalign treatment based on your specific needs.
Factors that may determine the duration of your treatment include the misalignment of your teeth or jaw, the shape of your bite, and the amount of movement required to correct the problem.
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What are Invisalign aligners made of?
Invisalign's clear aligners are made from USP Class VI medical-grade, high molecular weight polyurethane resins. All Invisalign aligners are BPA free.
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How often do I have to visit the dentist?
Invisalign aligners require no adjustments or tightening – you just switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks – that means your dentist will only need to see you about every 4-6 weeks for brief appointments.
During each appointment your dentist will review your progress and your overall oral health, answer any questions you may have, and adjust your treatment as required.
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What are the primary features of Invisalign?
Key features of Invisalign include:
- A discreet, low profile appearance so hardly anyone will notice that you're straightening your smile
- Smooth construction for enhanced comfort
- No need for frequent adjustment appointments with your dentist
- The aligners are easily removable for eating, brushing and flossing
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How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost of your Invisalign treatment will depend on the severity of your case and duration of your treatment. For example, the more severe your malocclusion, the more aligners you will require and the more your treatment will cost.
Often, the cost of Invisalign is comparable to that of traditional orthodontic treatment such as braces.
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How will Invisalign fit my lifestyle?
Many of our patients find that Invisalign fits very comfortably into their day-to-day lives.
You will be able to take your aligners out whenever you need to eat, drink, brush and floss. That means there is no need for dietary restrictions, and brushing and flossing is just as easy as ever.
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Are there any food or drink restrictions?
None at all! Invisalign aligners are removable. You simply take your aligners out when it's time to eat. As a result, there are no dietary restrictions when it comes to Invisalign. Throughout your treatment you will be able to continue eating all of the foods you love!
It's also important to note that, in order to avoid staining your clear aligners, you should remove them whenever you consume beverages such as red wine, coffee, or dark sodas.
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How many sets of aligners will I need?
The number of aligners that you will need depends on the severity of your misalignment.
Only your dentist can give you an accurate estimate of how many aligners you will require, based on a careful evaluation of your bite during your initial consultation.
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Can adults use Invisalign?
Yes! Anyone with healthy teeth and gums is a potential candidate for Invisalign treatment.
These days, thanks in part to treatment options like Invisalign, more and more adults are deciding to undergo orthodontic treatment.
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Can teenagers use Invisalign?
Absolutely! Teens can definitely be good candidates for Invisalign treatment. In fact, Invisalign has created a line of aligners specifically to meet the unique needs of teenagers.
Invisalign Teen aligners include compliance indicators (small blue dots that fade away after the aligners have been worn for two full weeks) to help teens stay on track with their treatment, and eruption tabs that provide space for second molars and prevent them from growing in crooked.
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How often do I have to change my Invisalign aligners?
In most cases patients with be advised to change to their next set of aligners every two weeks or so. Your dentist will let you know exactly how often you should switch out your aligners.
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How do I clean my aligners?
Rinse your aligners under cool water each time you remove them to wash away dry saliva and plaque that can result in bad breath and dental decay.
Soak your aligners regularly using denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, and/or the official Invisalign cleaning crystals to help make cleaning easier.
Brush and floss your teeth before you put your aligners back onto your teeth. Good oral hygiene practices are the key to maintaining healthy teeth and avoiding cavities and decay. Failing to brush and floss properly can trap food debris and bacteria between your teeth and aligner, increasing your risk of dental problems.
Use anti-bacterial soft soap to clean your aligners. Clear anti-bacterial soap is an excellent and inexpensive way to keep your aligners clean, clear, and free from harmful bacteria.
To avoid scratching your aligners be sure to brush your aligners gently, then rinse off the soap. That's it, you're done!
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Can I play sports with Invisalign?
Invisalign aligners are removable so you can play all of your favourite sports without worrying about causing damage to your aligners.
That said, it's important to keep in mind that Invisalign aligners must be kept in for a minimum of 22 hours a day, so plan your time carefully.
It's a good idea 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, and this can make them more susceptible to damage.
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Can I play my instrument with Invisalign?
Yes you can! Just remove your aligners to practice playing your instrument, then pop them back onto your teeth in when you're done.
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How do I store my aligners?
You will be provided with a handy case when you pickup your aligners. Store your aligners in their case whenever you take them out, in order to keep them safe.
New Patients Always Welcome
Looking for a dentist in London? We're happily accepting new patients at our dental clinic! Contact us to get started today.
Request AppointmentHours
- Monday:08:00 am - 06:00 pm
- Tuesday:08:00 am - 06:00 pm
- Wednesday:08:00 am - 06:00 pm
- Thursday:08:00 am - 05:00 pm
- Friday:08:00 am - 02:00 pm
- Saturday:Closed
- Sunday:Closed