Understanding the Invisalign System

Invisalign® is an orthodontic system with the primary focus of aligning your teeth. It is often seen as a discreet alternative to braces, another powerful alignment tool. Take a closer look at this dynamic system and how it can help you.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a system that uses a series of clear aligner trays. These trays are custom-made and consist of a patented medical-grade thermoplastic material called SmartTrack®. This material is lightweight and virtually invisible in the mouth, often making it more attractive than its alternatives. Additionally, it allows for a more free diet, though patients should still stick to a healthy diet to promote their oral health. However, unlike the alternative, patients can eat hard, chewy, or tough foods without issues.

To obtain Invisalign, patients must first undergo an evaluation with an Invisalign-certified provider, like us. The evaluation involves our team taking X-rays and performing a physical examination. We need to understand the extent of the malocclusion (bite or teeth misalignment). This step is crucial because, while the Invisalign system is powerful, it cannot correct severe or extreme cases, only mild to moderate. It can help correct the following:

• Crooked or crowded teeth
• Extrusions
• Gaps
• Habsburg chins
• Intrusions
• Overbites, underbites, and crossbites
• Overjets

If approved, we will take molds of the teeth and possibly use 3D imaging to craft the first set of aligners the same day. Throughout treatment, patients will visit the office every few weeks to receive new aligners and so we can evaluate their progress. Following our instructions is necessary to prevent prolonging treatment times— the goal is to be finished in 18 months or less.

Care guidelines during Invisalign treatment

The Invisalign system can look slightly different depending on the patient's age. The child and teen versions will be equipped with a dark blue dot on the back of the aligners. As they pull the aligners out of the mouth for cleaning and place them back in, the blue dot will wear down, completely dissipating by the next appointment. That way, our team and parents can monitor if the patient follows proper care instructions. However, adults will not have a blue dot on theirs, as they are typically more responsible in oral care.

Patients should be aware of the expected adjustment period after receiving each new set of aligners. The teeth and gums may feel tender or sore during the first few days, so much so that people may want to take out the aligners for more hours of the day than they should. It is important to wear the aligners for at least 20 hours daily.

Cleaning the aligners is relatively simple. Patients should remove and rinse them as well as thoroughly clean their teeth every time they eat. That way, debris will not be trapped in the aligners, preventing build-up and color changes to the appliance. To clean the aligners themselves, patients should use lukewarm water— not hot — and unscented, antibacterial soap to rinse them at least once a day.