Invisalign® FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a popular alternative to braces that uses a series of clear aligner trays to straighten your teeth. Aligners are custom-designed specifically for your teeth. During your first visit, your Invisalign orthodontist will use advanced 3-D technology to plan your treatment.

Each aligner tray gradually shifts your teeth closer and closer towards a perfect smile. You will wear each aligner for about two weeks before replacing it with the next in the series until your teeth reach their final position. Your Invisalign Orthodontist will determine your treatment time based on your unique needs.

What Are The Benefits of Invisalign?

  • Simply remove your aligner trays before meals, like a retainer.
  • Don’t hide your smile! Since Invisalign aligners are clear, you can show off your pearly whites even while going through treatment.
  • It’s easy to brush and floss like usual by simply removing your Invisalign aligners, keeping your teeth and gums healthy.
  • On occasion, it’s fine to take out your aligners to enjoy a special night out.
  • Most visits are in and out, with a quick progress check once every six weeks.
  • Looking for Invisalign in Salt Lake City? Make an appointment and get your smile straightened on your schedule.

Will it be Hard to Adapt to Wearing Invisalign?

Not at all! Invisalign is designed to easily be incorporated into your daily routine. Invisalign aligners are transparent; no one has to know you’re wearing braces! Invisalign seamlessly fits into your lifestyle and the way you interact with others on a day-to-day basis. You can even remove your aligners to eat and drink what you want during treatment. Also, simply remove the aligners to brush and floss as you normally would for fresh breath and good oral hygiene. No unwieldy brushing or flossing equipment required!

Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign is metal-free and doesn’t use irritating brackets or wires. You’ll spend less time in the doctor’s chair and more time out doing the things you love. Lastly, Invisalign makes it possible for you to view the virtual results of your treatment plan before starting: see how you will look with straight teeth before completing treatment.

How Long Does It Take?

Removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss, you wear each set of aligners for about two weeks at a time.

Your teeth will move a little at a time as you replace each aligner with the next in the series until they have straightened to the final prescribed position. About once every 6-10 weeks, you’ll visit Dr. McDonough to ensure that your treatment is progressing according to plan. Treatment takes 9-15 months. Most patients will wear between 18 and 30 aligners during treatment, but each case varies.

Is Invisalign Widely Used?

Over 1,000,000 people have used Invisalign: more are smiling every day. Invisalign is quickly becoming a popular way for adults to get the straight smile that they deserve. The flexibility and discretion of Invisalign makes wearing braces much easier and more comfortable.

Is Invisalign Right For Me?

Invisalign is the perfect solution for anyone with mild to moderate bite problems. Teens and adults often prefer Invisalign because of the discreet appearance. You can always schedule a free smile evaluation with Dr. McDonough to discuss if Invisalign would be the best option for you.

What are Invisalign Trays Made of?

Invisalign trays are made from a clear, flexible, plastic material. They are FDA-approved and free from harmful chemicals.

How Do You Clean Invisalign Trays?

Keeping your teeth, gums, and Invisalign alignment trays clean will help you speed up your treatment process and avoid complications. Remove your Invisalign tray before every meal to avoid stains or discoloration from foods or drinks. Rinse your tray or soak it in Invisalign cleaner from your orthodontist. You can also use a toothbrush to gently clean the tray, but brush carefully to avoid scratching it. Avoid using hot water when cleaning your Invisalign aligner because it may melt the plastic.

Need help finding an Invisalign Orthodontist in Salt Lake City? Call and make an appointment with Dr. McDonough. We are happy to answer your questions and get you on your way toward the smile you’ve been dreaming about.