Dental Services

Invisalign: What It Is and What to Expect

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic system that straightens teeth using a series of custom-made, clear removable aligners — no metal brackets, no wires, no adjustments. Each set of aligners is worn for about one to two weeks and gradually shifts your teeth into their ideal position according to a precise digital treatment plan. The aligners are virtually invisible, comfortable, and can be removed for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene — making Invisalign a popular choice for both teens and adults who want to improve their smile discreetly.

What Does Invisalign Treat?

Invisalign is highly versatile and can address a wide range of orthodontic concerns, including:

  • Crowded teeth: When there is not enough space in the jaw for teeth to sit properly, they overlap and twist. Invisalign gently creates space and guides teeth into alignment.
  • Gaps between teeth: Extra space between teeth — whether from missing teeth, jaw size, or habit — can be closed gradually and precisely.
  • Overbite: When the upper front teeth overlap too far over the lower front teeth, it can cause wear and jaw discomfort. Invisalign corrects the relationship between the upper and lower teeth.
  • Underbite: When the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth, Invisalign can shift the teeth into a healthier, more balanced position.
  • Crossbite: When some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth instead of outside, uneven wear and gum recession can result. Invisalign addresses this misalignment effectively.
  • Open bite: When the upper and lower front teeth do not make contact when the mouth is closed, chewing and speech can be affected. Invisalign works to bring the teeth into proper contact.
  • Mild to moderate relapse: Patients who had orthodontic treatment in the past but experienced some shifting of their teeth are excellent candidates for Invisalign to restore their alignment.

It is worth noting that very complex orthodontic cases may still be best suited for traditional braces. Your dentist or orthodontist will evaluate your specific situation and recommend the most effective path forward.

invisalign-tray

How Does Invisalign Work?

1

Consultation and Evaluation

Your provider will examine your teeth, take X-rays, and discuss your smile goals. This visit determines whether Invisalign is the right fit for your needs and gives you a chance to ask any questions about the process.
2

Digital Scanning and Treatment Planning

A precise 3D digital scan of your teeth is taken using a small handheld scanner — no messy impressions required. This scan is used to create a highly accurate digital model of your mouth. Your provider works with Invisalign’s software to map out the exact movements your teeth will make from start to finish. You may even be shown a digital preview of what your smile will look like at the end of treatment.
3

Fabrication of Your Aligners

Your custom aligner series is manufactured from Invisalign’s proprietary SmartTrack material — a smooth, BPA-free clear plastic that is both comfortable and precise. Depending on the complexity of your case, your treatment may involve anywhere from as few as 10 to more than 40 sets of aligners.
4

Placement of Attachments (If Needed)

Some patients require small tooth-colored dots called attachments to be bonded onto certain teeth before treatment begins. These tiny, smooth shapes give the aligners something to grip, allowing for more controlled and complex tooth movements. They are barely noticeable and are removed at the end of treatment.
5

Wearing Your Aligners

You will receive your first several sets of aligners and instructions for wear. Each set is worn for 20 to 22 hours per day— this is the most important factor in keeping your treatment on track. Aligners are removed only for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing. Every one to two weeks, you transition to the next set in the series, each one moving your teeth slightly closer to their final position.
6

Wearing Your Aligners

You will receive your first several sets of aligners and instructions for wear. Each set is worn for 20 to 22 hours per day— this is the most important factor in keeping your treatment on track. Aligners are removed only for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing. Every one to two weeks, you transition to the next set in the series, each one moving your teeth slightly closer to their final position.
7

Progress Check Appointments

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign requires fewer in-office visits. You will typically see your provider every 6 to 10 weeks so they can monitor your progress, make sure your teeth are tracking correctly, and provide your next sets of aligners. These appointments are brief and straightforward.
8

Refinements (If Needed)

Near the end of treatment, your provider may take a new scan and order a small series of additional aligners called refinements. These fine-tune the final positioning of your teeth to make sure the result is as precise as possible. Refinements are a normal and common part of the process.
9

Retention

Once your final aligner is complete, your teeth need to be held in their new position while the surrounding bone and tissue stabilize. Your provider will fit you for retainers — either a clear removable retainer similar in appearance to your aligners, or a thin wire bonded to the back of your teeth, or both. Retention is a lifelong commitment, but a simple one. Skipping retainers is the most common reason teeth shift back after orthodontic treatment.
How Long Does Treatment Take?

Treatment length varies depending on the complexity of your case:

  • Mild cases: As few as 3 to 6 months
  • Moderate cases: Typically 12 to 18 months
  • Complex cases: Up to 24 months or more

Your provider will give you a personalized estimate after reviewing your records.

What Can You Expect During Treatment?

Invisalign is generally well tolerated, but there are a few things to anticipate:

  • Mild pressure or soreness for the first day or two after switching to a new set of aligners — this is a sign the aligners are working
  • A slight lisp when you first begin wearing aligners, which most patients find resolves within a few days as the tongue adjusts
  • Discipline with wear time — the aligners only work when they are in your mouth, so consistency is essential
  • Increased attention to oral hygiene — because aligners are removed for meals, there is no restriction on what you eat, but it is important to brush before reinserting them to avoid trapping bacteria against your teeth
Caring for Your Aligners
  • Rinse aligners with lukewarm water every time you remove them
  • Clean them daily with a soft toothbrush and clear, unscented soap — avoid toothpaste, which can scratch and cloud the plastic
  • Store them in their case whenever they are not in your mouth to avoid loss or damage
  • Never expose aligners to hot water or heat, which can warp the plastic and affect the fit
Invisalign is a comfortable, flexible, and highly effective way to achieve a healthier, straighter smile — often without anyone noticing you are in treatment at all. Your dental team will be with you every step of the way to make sure you get the results you are looking for.