Potential Invisalign patients have plenty of questions about the treatment they’re considering. As it should be – Invisalign is a big deal, a serious undertaking, and a transformative, life-changing treatment. Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked Invisalign questions.
1. Do I have to wear Invisalign all the time?
Yes, except when you eat. Invisalign must be worn 20 to 22 hours every day. That means all seven days of the week, for about a year, until your dentist tells you otherwise. The only time the trays should be removed is for meals and snacks and cleaning, and that should not total more than two or three hours a day. If this seems excessive, think about people who wear conventional metal braces – their brackets and wires are in place 24/7. Invisalign gives you a small window of freedom whenever you need it.
2. What does it feel like to wear Invisalign?
Wearing Invisalign will feel weird at first, and the trays will fit snugly, but you will get used to the sensation quickly. Like any treatment that moves your teeth into new positions, there will be some discomfort occasionally. The aligners will feel strange when you put in a fresh set because that indicates that your teeth are moving. The great thing is that the trays are smooth and slim so they’re not bulky in your mouth, don’t get in the way of speaking, and don’t snag your cheeks or lips like brackets and wires.
3. How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign works when your Fort Lauderdale dentist designs a customized plan for moving your tooth crowns and roots at the same time and when you, the patient, follow the rules for wearing the clear aligners. This is a combined effort but much of it falls on you. For Invisalign to consistently move teeth into alignment, the trays must be worn every day, trays and teeth must be cleaned, and checkups must be honored so your dentist can monitor your progress and provide you with the next several sets of aligners to keep the process moving.
4. Is Invisalign right for me?
Only your Fort Lauderdale Invisalign provider can tell you whether you are a good candidate for this treatment. Some people have very complex misalignment that requires different types of cosmetic dentistry to correct. Other people have minor issues that may be ideal for a short version of Invisalign. Every patient is different and only after undergoing an exam and having digital images taken will you know for certain if Invisalign can transform your smile.
5. How much does Invisalign cost?
Invisalign cost typically falls between $3,000 and $7,000. Your Fort Lauderdale dentist will take into consideration the length and complexity of your treatment when determining cost, as well as the number of trays you will need to wear. You will have a concrete number before you say yes to Invisalign and this package includes the entire cost of your treatment from start to finish so you won’t encounter any financial surprises along the way.
Want to know if Invisalign is right for you? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Charmaine Johnson at Premiere Smile Center in Fort Lauderdale.
