Invisalign® FAQ

Invisalign^® is the latest advancement in teeth straightening technology. This modern take on braces utilizes state-of-the-art printing technology to create removable, clear, custom-made aligners that fit perfectly on your teeth. Over time, these invisible braces will work to gently move and correct the position of your teeth. This option is seen as a noninvasive, quicker alternative to traditional braces that offers the same end result: a more confident, straighter smile.

The Invisalign^® treatment process will begin with a consultation with one of Millersville Family Dentistry’s Invisalign^® specialists. We will examine your smile and digitally create a unique treatment plan to help visualize the potential step-by-step evolution of your smile.

If you accept Invisalign^® as your means to a straighter smile, we will schedule a dental checkup to ensure your teeth and gums are ready to undergo the treatment process. Once everything checks out, we will use state-of-the-art printing technology to create your custom aligners.

For optimal performance, you will want to wear each set of aligners for 20-22 hours a day, before switching to a slightly progressed set of aligners every 1-2 weeks. Each new set of aligners works to gradually shift your teeth into their proper formation, according to your individualized treatment plan.

Once treatment with Invisalign^® is complete, you can emerge into the world with teeth worth smiling about!

Invisalign^® is an invisible, removable, noninvasive, quicker alternative to braces. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign^® does not have any uncomfortable brackets or wires and will not mandate any food restrictions. Additionally, traditional braces tend to be much more involved, taking anywhere from 18 months to 3 years to achieve a straight smile, while Invisalign^® will only take on average 12 to 18 months.

Invisalign^® aligners are clear braces that are nearly invisible to the naked eye. They fit so snugly to your real teeth, it is likely that others won’t even notice you’re wearing them.

For the best results, you will need to wear you Invisalign^® aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day throughout your treatment process. Treatment time with Invisalign^® is will vary depending on your individual treatment plan. On average, it can take 12-18 months, though most patients begin noticing a straighter smile in as little as two weeks! Invisalign^® will typically move your teeth 1/10mm per aligner, but this will vary on a case by case basis, it could take a shorter time and in some cases, it can take longer.

Though gentler than traditional braces, Invisalign^® applies consistent force to your teeth to effectively straighten them. Typically, patients will experience slight discomfort or pressure, which means your Invisalign^® aligners are properly moving your teeth and working to transform your smile.

This depends on exactly how long you’ve gone without wearing your aligners. Invisalign^® can be taken out for eating, drinking, brushing, or flossing without any concerns. If you spend prolonged periods without wearing your aligners, however, you may have to alter your schedule and extend treatment time. Make sure you let your dentist know if this happens so your Invisalign^® treatment plan can be re-evaluated to accommodate your situation.

Yes, Invisalign^® aligners are meant to wear when sleeping.

It is recommended that you remove your Invisalign^® aligners when eating. This will ensure that no food gets stuck in your aligners and will safeguard your aligners from any discoloration.

When you first get your Invisalign^® aligners, you might notice a slight lisp in your speech. This is normal! It may take a few days for your tongue to get used to the aligners in your mouth, but your speech should return to normal fairly quickly.

Yes. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified Invisalign^® aligners as Class II medical devices.

If you have any further questions about Invisalign^® that were not addressed on the FAQ page, please contact our team at Millersville Family Dentistry. We would be happy to help! Are you interested in additional dental services not mentioned here? Give us a call at 410-729-0390!