Read the Answers to Our Most Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about Invisalign clear aligners from Cor-Dent Dental Centre in Winnipeg.
Invisalign FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
Can't find the answer you're looking for?
Send us your question, and we'll follow up with you.
- What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a series of transparent, custom-made aligners that work to straighten your teeth without the use of metal wires or brackets.
Using 3D computer imaging technology during the consultation process, we are able to establish a treatment plan based on your individual smile.
A series of custom clear aligners will then be made to fit your teeth during every stage of the Invisalign treatment process.
- How does the Invisalign process work?
Invisalign clear aligners are crafted to shift your teeth in tiny increments gradually throughout your treatment. You must wear each set of aligners for approximately two weeks before replacing it with the next set in the series.
You need to continue this process until your teeth are in their prescribed, corrected positions. The duration of your Invisalign treatment will be determined by your dentist depending on your specific requirements.
- How long does Invisalign treatment take
Your dentist will determine the duration of your Invisalign treatment depending on your unique requirements.
The other factors that could influence the duration of your treatment include the misalignment of your teeth or jaw, the shape of your bite, and the amount of movement needed to help fix the problem.
- What are Invisalign aligners made of?
The Invisalign aligners are made with USP Class VI medical-grade, high molecular weight polyurethane resins. They are BPA free.
- How often do I have to visit the dentist?
Because Invisalign aligners don't require adjustments or tightening – you just have to switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks – your dentist will schedule short appointments with you every 4 to 6 weeks.
At these appointments, your dentist will take the opportunity to review your progress and general oral health, answer any questions you have, and make modifications to your treatment as required.
- What are the primary features of Invisalign?
The features of Invisalign include:
- A discreet, low profile appearance
- Removable for eating, brushing and flossing
- Smooth construction for enhanced comfort
- Do not require adjustment appointments
- How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost of your treatment will depend on the severity of your misalignment or condition and the duration of your treatment. For example, the more severe the malocclusion, the more aligners you'll require and the more your treatment will cost.
- What financing options do you offer?
We currently do not offer any financing options.
- How will Invisalign fit my lifestyle?
Invisalign might fit very comfortably into your everyday life.
You are able to remove your aligners when you need to eat, drink, brush and floss. This means there are absolutely no dietary restrictions, and brushing and flossing is just as easy as ever.
- Are there any food or drink restrictions?
Invisalign aligners are removable, so you can take them out to eat. As a result, there aren't any dietary restrictions with Invisalign, so you can keep eating all the foods you love!
To avoid staining your clear aligners, we suggest removing them to consume beverages such as wine, coffee, or dark sodas.
- How many sets of aligners will I need?
The answer to this question will be based on the severity of your condition.
Only your dentist will be able to give you an accurate estimate of how many aligners you will require, depending on a careful evaluation of your bite during an initial consultation.
- Can adults use Invisalign?
Yes! Anyone with healthy teeth and gums is a potential candidate for Invisalign.
- Can teenagers use Invisalign?
Yes! Teenagers can be candidates for Invisalign. Actually, Invisalign has released a line of aligners to meet the unique needs of teens.
Invisalign Teen aligners have compliance indicators on them (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.
They also come with eruption tabs that offer extra space for second molars to keep them from growing in crooked.
- How often do I have to change my Invisalign aligners?
Most patients have to change to their next set of aligners approximately every two weeks. Your dentist will tell you exactly how often you need to switch your aligners.
- How do I clean my aligners?
Rinse your aligners every time you take them out to wash off dry saliva and plaque that could lead to dental decay and bad breath.
Soak your aligners using a denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, and/or the official Invisalign cleaning crystals.
Brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in. Good oral hygiene is essential when 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 and bad breath.
Clean your aligners with a clear, anti-bacterial soft soap. Clear anti-bacterial soap is an excellent and inexpensive way to keep your aligners clear, fresh, and free from harmful bacteria.
Brush your aligners carefully so you don't scratch them, and rinse off the soap. Then you're finished!
- Can I play sports with Invisalign?
You can remove your Invisalign aligners to play sports without having to worry about damaging your aligners.
Although, you need to remember that Invisalign aligners have to be kept in for at least 22 hours a day, so manage your time carefully.
You'll also want to look at getting a sports mouthguard to protect your teeth because, orthodontic treatment can slightly loosen your teeth as they shift into their new positions, and this can make them more susceptible to damage.
- Can I play my instrument with Invisalign?
Yes! Just remove your aligners to practice playing your instrument, and put them back in when you're finished.
- How do I store my aligners?
Your Invisalign aligners come with a protective case, and this is where you should put your aligners every time you take them out to keep them safe.