As a leading dental practice in Frisco, TX, V Smile Family Dental, headed by Dr. Vijaya Kallam, is pleased to offer Invisalign as one of our many orthodontic solutions. We understand that you may have questions about this treatment option.
In this FAQ page, we’ll answer the most common queries we receive about Invisalign. If you have any other questions, please call us to learn more!
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a brand of clear aligners used in orthodontics to adjust teeth alignment. These removable aligners are custom-made, virtually invisible, and provide an alternative to traditional braces.
Does Invisalign work?
Yes, Invisalign has been proven to be effective in treating a range of orthodontic issues, such as crooked teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, and more.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign works by using a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners to gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. Each set of aligners is worn for about 1-2 weeks before moving on to the next set in the series.
Can you chew gum with Invisalign?
No, it’s recommended that you remove your Invisalign aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water, and this includes chewing gum.
Can you eat with Invisalign?
No, you should remove your Invisalign aligners before eating. You can, however, drink water with your aligners in.
How long does Invisalign take?
The duration of treatment varies depending on the complexity of each case. On average, Invisalign treatment lasts between 12 and 18 months. However, some patients might see their desired results in as little as six months.
How long do you wear Invisalign?
Invisalign aligners should be worn 20 to 22 hours per day for the best results. They should be removed only for eating, brushing, and flossing.
What is the shortest amount of time to wear Invisalign?
The length of Invisalign treatment can vary, but some patients may see results in as little as six months. However, it’s crucial to wear the aligners for the recommended 20 to 22 hours per day for the treatment to be effective.
Do you sleep with Invisalign?
Yes, you should wear your Invisalign aligners while you sleep. Remember, they need to be worn 20–22 hours a day for optimal results.
Is it OK to leave Invisalign out for a day?
For the best results, it’s important to wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day. Leaving your aligners out for a day could disrupt the progress of your treatment. However, if you forget to put your aligners in for a few hours, just start wearing them again as soon as possible and make sure to wear them a bit longer to make up for the lost time.
How long do you have to wear an Invisalign retainer?
After completing your Invisalign treatment, you’ll need to wear a retainer to maintain your new tooth alignment. At first, you’ll wear the retainer full-time, then transition to wearing it only at night. The exact duration will depend on your dentist’s recommendations, but many people need to wear their retainers indefinitely to ensure their teeth do not shift back to their original positions.
Braces vs. Invisalign?
Both braces and Invisalign can correct misaligned teeth, but they have significant differences. Braces involve metal brackets and wires, are visible, and cannot be removed except by a dentist. Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible and removable. The choice between braces and Invisalign often depends on the individual’s preferences, lifestyle, and the complexity of their case.
Is Invisalign cheaper than braces?
The cost of Invisalign treatment is usually comparable to braces. The actual cost will depend on specific factors, like the complexity of the case and geographic location.
Is Invisalign better than Braces?
Invisalign and braces each have their benefits. Some cases may be treated more effectively with traditional braces, while others might benefit more from Invisalign. Invisalign offers more comfort and convenience, whereas braces may be more effective for more complex orthodontic issues.
Is Invisalign more painful than braces?
While everyone’s pain tolerance is different, most patients report that Invisalign is less painful than braces. There may be some discomfort as your teeth adjust to each new set of aligners, but this is usually less intense and of shorter duration than the discomfort experienced with braces.
Are braces faster than Invisalign?
The treatment time with braces and Invisalign can vary significantly based on the patient’s specific orthodontic needs. However, in general, braces might be a faster option for more complex cases.
Does Invisalign hurt?
While not typically described as painful, there can be some discomfort or pressure when you first start using a new set of aligners. This feeling is normal and is a sign that the aligners are working, moving your teeth to their final positions.
Is Invisalign worth it?
Many patients find that the advantages of Invisalign, such as its near-invisibility and the ability to remove the aligners for eating and cleaning, make the treatment worth considering. However, whether it’s worth it for you will depend on your personal needs and lifestyle.
Who is not a good candidate for Invisalign?
Invisalign might not be as effective for severe cases of crowding, malocclusion, or for patients with bridgework, certain bite issues, or back tooth bite issues.
Invisalign may also not be suitable for those who lack the discipline to wear the aligners for the required 20 to 22 hours per day or those with other oral health issues that need to be addressed first.
It’s best to consult with your dentist or orthodontist to see if Invisalign is right for you.
What are the disadvantages of Invisalign?
Some potential disadvantages of Invisalign include the need for discipline to wear the aligners consistently, the need to remove them before eating or drinking anything other than water, the potential for temporarily altered speech, and they may not be suitable for complex orthodontic cases.
Can you speak properly with Invisalign?
Yes, most people can speak normally with Invisalign. Some people might notice a slight lisp when they first start wearing their Invisalign aligners. This usually goes away after a few days once the tongue gets used to having the aligners in place.
What is the success rate of Invisalign?
When used as directed, Invisalign has a high success rate. However, the success of the treatment depends on the complexity of the orthodontic issues, the patient’s adherence to the treatment plan, and other individual factors.
What is the cost of Invisalign?
The cost of Invisalign can vary depending on the complexity of the case and other factors, but generally, prices start at around $3,000. When you come in for a free consultation at V Smile Family Dental, we’ll be able to give you a complete cost estimate of your full treatment expectations.
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We’re always happy to answer any questions our patients may have. If your question was not answered fully on this page, please call us today to learn more!
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