Invisalign® FAQs
What are Invisalign clear aligners made of and what do they look like?
Invisalign clear aligners are made from SmartTrack®, a flexible thermoplastic developed for Invisalign treatment. They are thin, transparent, and custom-made to fit over your teeth. The material does not contain BPA, BPS, latex, or gluten.
How will Invisalign treatment straighten my teeth?
Your provider will create a digital treatment plan that maps the planned movement of your teeth. Aligners are made to follow that plan, applying gentle pressure in stages. Your provider will monitor your progress and check that the aligners fit as expected.
What are the primary benefits of Invisalign treatment?
Clear aligners are designed to be less noticeable than traditional braces. They can be removed for meals and for brushing and flossing, and they do not use brackets or wires. As with any orthodontic treatment, results and experience vary from person to person.
Invisalign aligners are made with SmartTrack® material and trimmed to follow your gum line. Your provider can discuss how the aligners may fit and feel, and whether this treatment is appropriate for your case.
Is Invisalign treatment right for me?
Invisalign may be an option for some adults and teens, but it is not suitable for every orthodontic concern. A consultation lets your provider assess your teeth and bite, discuss treatment choices, and explain what may be involved in your case.
What is the treatment process?
Treatment begins with a consultation. Your provider will evaluate your teeth and bite and, if aligners are suitable, prepare a customized digital treatment plan.
Once your plan is finalized, a series of custom aligners is made for you. Aligners are typically worn for 20 to 22 hours a day, with each set changed on the schedule your provider recommends. Follow-up visits help your provider check progress and make adjustments if needed.
How long will treatment take?
Treatment time varies with the complexity of your case and how consistently you follow your wear schedule. Your provider can estimate a timeline after evaluating your needs.
Will I need to wear a retainer after treatment to prevent my teeth from moving again?
Retainers are commonly recommended after orthodontic treatment to help keep teeth from shifting. Your provider will explain whether you need a retainer and how often to wear it.
Don’t stop living your life
- Remove aligners for meals, then clean your teeth before putting them back in.
- Continue participating in your usual activities; ask your provider about aligner use during sports.
- Brush and floss as usual, following your provider’s cleaning instructions for aligners.
- There are no brackets or wires to adjust, although regular checkups are still important.
- Clear aligners are designed to be less noticeable than traditional braces.
