Answering 5 Common Invisalign Questions

You’ve been looking for a way to straighten your teeth without braces, and so far it seems like Invisalign is the solution you’ve been looking for. But how much do you know about the treatment? Committing to a procedure that you’re unfamiliar with can be nerve-wracking. To give you a better idea of what to expect, the following post answers 5 common Invisalign questions.

1. Who is the Invisalign Process For?

Invisalign is typically recommended for adults and older teenagers. It’s considered a good option for anyone who wants to straighten their smile but doesn’t want to wear highly visible brackets and wires to school or work. Generally speaking, the treatment is best suited for mild to moderate orthodontic issues such as crooked teeth or certain bite problems. Your dentist or orthodontist might recommend braces instead if you need more extensive corrections.

2. Can You Wear Invisalign Even If You’ve Already Worn Braces?

There are many cases of former braces patients who went on to also wear Invisalign. This is often done due to the teeth shifting after the first orthodontic treatment is complete. Invisalign offers a discreet way to shift the teeth back into place and correct any minor issues that have come up since your braces were removed.

3. Exactly How Long Does Invisalign Take?

Usually, the treatment timeline for Invisalign is between 12 to 18 months. However, every patient is different, and some might not need to wear their aligners for as long. In fact, there are examples of Invisalign treatment being completed in as little as six months! Your dentist will be able to give you a better idea of how long you can expect the process to last in your specific case.

4. What Can You Eat with Invisalign?

Whatever you want! Unlike braces that are anchored to the teeth, Invisalign aligners are designed to be removable. That means you can take them out of your mouth during mealtime and enjoy all of your favorite foods without worrying about damaging your orthodontic appliance. Just don’t forget to put your aligners back in once you’re done eating; you need to wear them for 20 to 22 hours a day to keep your treatment on schedule.

5. Will Insurance Help Pay for Invisalign?

If your insurance plan offers coverage for traditional braces, it will likely help pay for Invisalign as well. The exact details of coverage can vary, so make sure that you reach out to your insurance company before you commit to Invisalign.

Is there anything you want to know about Invisalign that isn’t discussed above? Schedule a consultation with your dentist today; they can answer all of your questions, and they’ll help you decide whether Invisalign really is the best choice for getting the straighter smile you want.

About the Author

Dr. Steven Oshins takes pride in being able to go above and beyond when it comes to improving his patients’ smiles. He graduated from the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, and he is currently a member of several professional organizations including the New York State Dental Association. His Schenectady practice, Oshins of Smiles, offers Invisalign as an alternative to traditional braces. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Oshins, visit his website or call (518) 356-5635.