Invisalign Braces FAQ

How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign braces trays are designed to move a few teeth at a time until your entire smile is in alignment. Aligners are typically worn in two-week increments before being changed out for the next set of trays. Your Fort Lauderdale Invisalign provider will determine your entire Invisalign treatment plan from start to finish so you know what to expect – but it’s up to you to be committed to the responsibility of wearing Invisalign so the trays can do the work they’re intended to do.

Do I have to wear Invisalign all the time?

To be effective, Invisalign braces must be worn 20 to 22 hours a day, so while you don’t have to wear the trays around the clock, they should be worn for the bulk of every day. There is a great deal of freedom that comes with being an Invisalign patient because you can remove the trays as needed, unlike wearers of conventional metal braces. However, the only time you really should have the aligners out of your mouth is for meals, snacks, and cleaning your teeth.

Can I skip wearing the aligners for a few days?

Maybe you have a special occasion coming up, a major work event, or you just want a break. While you certainly could remove your trays, it’s not a good idea. Invisalign is designed to be wear almost constantly, and if you want the treatment to work effectively, you should never go for more than an hour or so without the aligners on your teeth. If you leave the trays out for days, you run the risk of compromising your treatment progress. Each set of aligners is designed to move certain teeth at certain times – you don’t want to veer from this schedule.

How long does Invisalign braces treatment last?

The average Invisalign wearer will be in treatment for about a year. Some patients have more complex issues that require more time, while others have minor problems that can be corrected in less than a year.

What are attachments and will I need them?

Attachments are very small, tooth-colored dots that can take various shapes and are bonded temporarily to the teeth to make the Invisalign trays fit better and move teeth even more effectively. Not every patient needs attachments but they are a common part of Invisalign treatment so there is a good chance you may require at least a few.

Can I eat while wearing Invisalign?

You should never eat with Invisalign braces in your mouth – not even a little snack. It will be tempting to take a bite or sip a drink, but these choices can stain or damage your trays. You should only drink water with the trays in your mouth and otherwise remove the aligners for all meals and snacks to keep them clean and fresh.

What does it feel like to wear Invisalign Braces?

Invisalign trays will put pressure on your teeth – that’s a good thing and means the trays fit properly and are shifting your smile as intended. Each aligner is smooth, which means it will not irritate your lips or cheeks, unlike metal braces which can poke and jab the tissues of your mouth because of their sharp wires and brackets.

How much does Invisalign cost?

Invisalign treatment can cost between $3,000 and $7,000, a total which will depend on how complex your case is and the number of trays you will wear. This number will be given to you at the start and you shouldn’t expect any cost surprises along the way unless there is a major, unexpected oral health issue that develops. Invisalign is an affordable treatment for most people with the help of creative financing options or special offers.

Is Invisalign right for me?

Invisalign has helped millions of adults and teens achieve the straight, healthy smile they’ve always wanted. Only your certified Fort Lauderdale Invisalign provider can tell you if this treatment is right for you. Contact Dr. Charmaine Johnson at Premier Smile Center to schedule a consultation and learn you are a good candidate for this innovative teeth straightening treatment.