Your Invisalign Questions Answered: How It Works, How to Clean It, and What to Expect

Invisalign has transformed the way people think about orthodontic treatment. No longer does getting straight teeth mean wearing fixed metal braces. With Invisalign, you can get a beautifully aligned smile and keep the process hidden from most people. But before you begin treatment, you probably have some questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Invisalign aligners.

What are Invisalign aligners?

Invisalign is a type of orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable trays to shift your teeth into place. Custom-made to fit your mouth, each set of aligners is worn for a few weeks and gently nudges your teeth into the desired position. Invisalign aligners can be used to correct issues like crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites and more. Made from smooth, medical-grade plastic, Invisalign trays are comfortable to wear and almost invisible when worn — which is why they’re a popular choice for both adults and teens who don’t want to wear metal braces.

How to clean Invisalign aligners

Keeping your aligners clean is an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene throughout treatment. The best way to clean your Invisalign aligners is to:

  • Rinse them with lukewarm water every time you remove them.

     

  • Brush gently with a soft toothbrush and clear, mild soap (avoid toothpaste, as it can scratch the plastic).

     

  • Soak your aligners daily in Invisalign cleaning crystals or a denture-cleaning solution to keep them fresh and odour-free.

     

Always brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in — this prevents bacteria and plaque from being trapped between your teeth and the trays.

Does Invisalign really work?

Yes — Invisalign is a highly effective treatment when used as prescribed by your orthodontist. The trays apply targeted pressure to your teeth, gradually shifting them into the desired position over many stages. Millions of patients around the world have had success improving their smiles with Invisalign, to treat mild to moderate orthodontic problems like crooked teeth, gaps and bite problems. Success depends on wearing your aligners for 20–22 hours per day and attending regular check-ups so that your orthodontist can monitor your progress.

Can you eat with Invisalign?

A key advantage of Invisalign treatment is the ability to remove the aligners. This means you can eat and drink whatever you want, as long as you take them out before eating. If you try to eat with the aligners in, they can become damaged or stained, so it’s a good idea to simply remove them and place them back in their case. Then, once you’ve finished eating, you can brush your teeth and rinse your aligners before replacing them. This means you can eat your favourite foods without the worry and restrictions that come with traditional braces.

Invisalign is a comfortable, convenient way to straighten your smile. With proper care and consistent wear under regular orthodontic supervision, your treatment can give you beautiful, long-lasting results without the appearance of metal braces.

If you’re interested in Invisalign, schedule a consultation with your orthodontist to see if this treatment is right for you. A confident smile is closer than you think!

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