Invisalign® FAQs Reading, MA

Advanced, clear aligners from Invisalign® give millions of people access to a discreet, comfortable, effective alternative to traditional metal braces. To help you make a confident decision regarding Invisalign®, we’ve curated some of the most common frequently asked questions right here:

What is the Invisalign® system?

The Invisalign® system is the virtually invisible way to straighten your teeth and achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Invisalign® treatment uses advanced 3D computer imaging technology to give you a clear picture of your complete treatment plan, from the initial position of your teeth to their final desired position.

A series of clear aligners are custom-made for your teeth to move them little by little. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks before being replaced by the next in the series until the final position of your teeth is achieved. Your Invisalign® treatment time will be determined by your doctor based on your specific needs.

How many patients have received Invisalign® treatment?

More than 5,000,000 patients worldwide have been successfully treated using Invisalign® aligners and the number of Invisalign® smiles grows daily.

Who is Invisalign® treatment for?

Invisalign® treatment is a great solution for both adults and teens looking for a virtually invisible method to get a better smile. The technological advancements inherent in Invisalign® treatment make it possible to fix many common bite and teeth-straightening issues without undue interruption to your busy schedule. And, thanks to a discreet blue dot on the outside of teen aligners that tracks usage time, parents can be sure their teen is wearing their aligners for the appropriate amount of time each day.

What are the primary benefits of Invisalign® treatment?

Invisalign® aligners are clear to offer patients a seamless, discreet way to straighten teeth without interrupting your lifestyle and day-to-day interactions with others. Plus, comfortable Invisalign® aligners are also removable — so you have the flexibility to eat and drink what you want during treatment, remove them for easier and better oral hygiene, or even have a special night out.

Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign® treatment uses soft, comfortable material that doesn’t cause irritation to your mouth. And, without the chance of broken wires and brackets, you’ll spend less time in the doctor’s chair and scheduling appointments, and more time out doing the things you love.

Lastly, Invisalign® treatment technology gives you a sneak peek at your virtual smile results and treatment plan before treatment begins, so you can preview how your straight teeth will look.

Will Invisalign® treatment fit my lifestyle?

There are many ways that Invisalign® is a perfect fit for an active lifestyle. Here are just a few:

• Time for a snack? No problem. Take out your aligners to eat or drink whenever you want.
• You can remove your Invisalign® aligners so you can brush and floss regularly and keep your teeth and gums healthy.
• You can occasionally remove your Invisalign® aligners to enjoy a special night out.
• Since Invisalign® aligners are clear, you don’t have to hide your smile while going through treatment.
• With Invisalign® treatment, it’s easy to make your smile picture-perfect for that special occasion.
• Invisalign® treatment appointments work with your schedule. Most visits are in and out, with a quick progress check once every six weeks.

What if I’ve had braces in the past or other types of dental work?

Invisalign® clear aligners can successfully treat nearly all common teeth-straightening issues. Many patients who have had braces in the past choose Invisalign® treatment to improve their smile when they find that their teeth have shifted out of place.

If you have veneers or crowns you should talk with your doctor and he or she will evaluate your individual needs to determine if Invisalign® is right for you. Because Invisalign® clear aligners are designed to move each tooth individually and bridgework connects two or more teeth, Invisalign® may not be effective for individuals with bridgework.

Do Invisalign® aligners contain Bisphenol A (BPA)?

All Invisalign® aligner and retainer materials are made of medical-grade, high molecular weight, thermoplastic polymers. All of these materials have FDA approval for use inside the human body and a long history of safety. Extensive testing has been conducted on these materials to ensure biocompatibility and that they pass all applicable regulatory requirements and standards for human wear in the mouth.

Based on Invisalign®’s knowledge and testing of the raw materials and processes in the manufacture of Invisalign® aligners and retainers, they are not aware of any latex, parabens, phthalates, glutaraldehyde, epoxy or Bisphenol A (BPA) present in any of their appliances. However, you should check with your doctor about your orthodontic appliances and treatment and any applicable risks of use.

If you have any other questions about Invisalign® that aren’t answered here, please feel free to contact our office today!