How to Choose the Right Dentist for You
Are you looking for a dentist in Orléans? Finding the right dentist can be a tricky task, so today our dentists are offering some advice to help you make the right choice.
Read on for answers to some of our most frequently asked questions about Invisalign clear aligners from our St. Joseph Orleans Dental Centre dentist in Orléans.
Invisalign FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
- What are Invisalign clear aligners?
The Invisalign clear aligner system is a series of clear, custom fitted aligners that straighten your teeth without metal wires or brackets.
3D computer imaging technology is used in the consultation process to create a treatment plan based on your unique smile.
A series of custom clear aligners will be manufactured to fit your teeth precisely during each stage of the Invisalign treatment process.
- How does the Invisalign process work?
Invisalign's clear, plastic aligners are designed to move your teeth in small increments through your treatment process. You will wear each aligner in the series for about 2 weeks before they are replaced by the next.
This process will continue until your teeth have moved into their prescribed locations in your mouth. The length of your treatment will depend on your specific needs and will be determined by your dentist.
- How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Your dentist will determine the duration of your Invisalign treatment based on your specific needs.
Factors that may determine 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 correct the problem.
- What are Invisalign aligners made of?
Invisalign clear aligners are BPA free. They are also made from USP Class VI medical-grade and high molecular weight polyurethane resins.
- How often do I have to visit the dentist?
Since Invisalign aligners require no adjustments or tightening – you just switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks – your dentist will schedule brief appointments with you approximately every 4 - 6 weeks.
During these appointments, your dentist will take the opportunity to review your progress and general oral health, answer your questions, and make adjustments to your treatment as required.
- What are the primary features of Invisalign?
Invisalign aligners are:
- Have no bulky brackets or wires
- Smooth construction may offer greater comfort than braces
- Can be removed to eat. brush and floss
- Do not require adjustment appointments
- How much does Invisalign cost?
Cost will depend on the severity of your case and duration of your treatment. For instance, the more severe the malocclusion, the more aligners you'll need and the more your treatment will cost.
In many cases, the cost of Invisalign is comparable to that of traditional orthodontic treatment (braces).
- How will Invisalign fit my lifestyle?
You may well find that Invisalign fits comfortably into your day-to-day life.
You can remove your aligners whenever your need to drink, eat, brush your teeth and floss. This means you don't have to deal with any dietary restrictions.
- Are there any food or drink restrictions?
Invisalign aligners are removable, meaning you can take them out to eat. As a result, there are no dietary restrictions when it comes to Invisalign, so you can continue to eat all the foods you love!
To avoid staining your clear aligners, we recommend removing them when you consume beverages such as wine, coffee, or dark soda beverages.
- How many sets of aligners will I need?
The answer here depends on how severe your misalignment is.
Only your dentist will be able to tell you how long your treatment will take, based on a careful evaluation of your bite at an initial consultation.
- Can adults use Invisalign?
Yes! Anyone who has healthy teeth and gums is a potential candidate for Invisalign.
More and more adults are deciding to undergo orthodontic treatment these days, in large part because options like Invisalign have become available.
- Can teenagers use Invisalign?
Absolutely! Teenagers can be candidates for Invisalign. In fact, Invisalign has created a special line of clear aligners to meet the unique needs of teenagers.
Invisalign teen aligners have compliance indicators on them. These small blue dots fade over the course of two weeks of regular wear in order to help your teen stay on track with their treatment.
These aligners also come with eruption tabs that help to provide space for second molars and prevent them from growing in crookedly.
- How often do I have to change my Invisalign aligners?
Most patients change to their next set of aligners every two weeks or so. Your dentist will tell you exactly how often you should switch out your aligners.
- How do I clean my aligners?
Rinse your aligners each time you remove them to wash away dry saliva and plaque that can result in dental decay and bad breath.
Soak your aligners using denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, and/or the official Invisalign cleaning crystals.
Brush and floss your teeth before you put your aligners back in. Good oral hygiene is key to 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 gently so as not to scratch them, and then rinse off the soap. Then you're done!
- Can I play sports with Invisalign?
Invisalign aligners are removable so you can play sports without worrying about causing damage to your aligners.
However, keep in mind that Invisalign aligners must be kept in for a minimum of 22 hours a day, so plan your time carefully.
You'll also want to invest in a sports mouth guard to 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.
- Can I play my instrument with Invisalign?
Yes! Simply remove your aligners to practice playing your instrument, and pop them back in when you're done.
- How do I store my aligners?
Your Invisalign aligners will come with a case, and this is where you should put your aligners whenever you take them out to keep them safe.
Can't find the answer you're looking for?
Get in touch with us. We will be happy to answer any questions you might have.