Read the Answers to Our Most Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about Invisalign clear aligners from Say Cheese Dentistry in Ottawa.
Invisalign FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
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What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a series of clear, custom-fitted aligners that allow your dentist to straighten your teeth without the use of metal wires or brackets.
Our dental team uses advanced 3D computer imaging technology during the consultation process, we will create a unique treatment plan based on your unique goals and needs.
A series of custom clear aligners will be custom-made to fit your teeth precisely during each ongoing stage of the Invisalign treatment process.
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How does the Invisalign process work?
Invisalign clear plastic aligners are designed to move your teeth slowly but consistently throughout the treatment process. Each set of aligners will be worn for about two weeks before it is replaced by the next one in the series.
This process will continue until your teeth are in their final prescribed and corrected positions. The duration of your Invisalign treatment will vary depending on your needs and goals for your smile.
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How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Your dentist will determine the duration of your Invisalign treatment based on your specific needs and this timeframe may need to be flexible depending on progress.
Some possible factors that may affect the duration of your treatment include the misalignment of your teeth or jaw, the shape of your bite, and the amount of movement required to reach your goal.
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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.
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How often do I have to visit the dentist?
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners require no adjustments or tightening. With Invisalign, you will switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks and your dentist will schedule checkups with you every 4 to 6 weeks.
During these visits, your dentist will take the opportunity to review your progress and general oral health, answer your questions, and adjust your treatment as required.
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What are the primary features of Invisalign?
The features of Invisalign include:
- A discreet, low-profile appearance
- Smooth construction for a more comfortable fit
- Do not require adjustment appointments
- Removable for eating, brushing and flossing
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How much does Invisalign cost?
As with most treatments, the cost of Invisalign will depend on the severity of your case and the duration of your treatment. The more movement and correction that your teeth require, the more assets of aligners you will need and therefore the cost will be higher.
Most of the time, the cost of Invisalign treatment is comparable to that of traditional treatment with metal braces.
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What financing options do you offer?
While we do not offer financing options, we do offer payment through cash, cheque, debit, or credit as well as direct billing to your insurance provider.
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How will Invisalign fit my lifestyle?
As Invisalign is less bulky and removable you may find that this treatment fits comfortably into your day-to-day life.
You can take your aligners out whenever you need to eat, drink, brush and floss. Allowing you to eat any food that you would like, and continue with your regular oral care routine.
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Are there any food or drink restrictions?
Invisalign aligners are removable, meaning you can take them out to eat. Because of this, you will be able to eat any type of food that you please while receiving Invisalign treatment.
We recommend that you also remove your clear aligners when drinking anything other than water to avoid unsightly stains.
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How many sets of aligners will I need?
The required number of Invisalign clear aligners that you will need through treatment is dependent on the severity of the misalignment.
Your dentist will be able to provide you with an approximation of the number of aligners you will need, based on a careful evaluation of your bite during an initial consultation.
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Can adults use Invisalign?
Yes, as long as you have healthy teeth and gums you will be able to use Invisalign.
These days it is common for adults to consider orthodontic treatment, this may be due to more options such as Invisalign becoming available.
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Can teenagers use Invisalign?
Yes, in fact, Invisalign has a series of clear aligners that were created specifically for teenagers.
Invisalign Teen aligners have compliance indicators on them (small blue dots that fade away after the aligners have been worn for two full weeks) which allows your teenage to visibly monitor their treatment.
They also provide eruption tabs in order to allow space for the second molars to emerge while preventing them from growing in crooked.
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How often do I have to change my Invisalign aligners?
Typically for Invisalign treatment, you will change your aligners every two weeks. Your dentist will be able to recommend the schedule that best suits your needs.
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How do I clean my aligners?
It is important to thoroughly rinse your aligners each time you remove them to wash away dry saliva and plaque that can cause issues such as dental decay and bad breath.
Soak your aligners using a denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, and/or the official Invisalign cleaning crystals.
Always be sure to brush and floss your teeth before you put your aligners back in. Failing to brush and floss properly can trap food debris and bacteria between your teeth and aligner leading to complications and increasing your risk of dental problems and bad breath. Good oral hygiene is key to maintaining healthy teeth and avoiding cavities and decay.
Use a clear, anti-bacterial soft soap to clean your aligners. Clear anti-bacterial soap is a great choice to help keep your aligners clear, fresh, and free from harmful bacteria.
Brush your aligners gently as it is possible to scratch them if you use too much pressure, rinse off the soap then put them back in.
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Can I play sports with Invisalign?
With Invisalign aligners, you are able to remove them while you play sports so that you do not need to worry about causing damage to your aligners.
However, it is important to remember that Invisalign aligners must be kept in for a minimum of 22 hours a day, so plan your time carefully.
It may also be a good idea to invest in a sports mouth guard to help protect your teeth, as orthodontic treatment can cause your teeth to loosen slightly as they shift into their new positions, and this can make them more susceptible to damage.
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Can I play my instrument with Invisalign?
Yes, just as when you are eating, just take your aligners out and store them safely while you play, then place them back in your mouth when finished.
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How do I store my aligners?
Your Invisalign aligners will come with a case, and it is important to always put your aligners in this case whenever you take them out to keep them safe.