close up of woman's mouth, placing clear aligner on her teeth

Top Invisalign FAQs and Answers

TeamInvisalign

Are you considering Invisalign for yourself or your child? Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that is used to straighten teeth. Many patients are choosing Invisalign for a variety of reasons from the subtle appearance to the greater level of comfort it offers. 

But Invisalign is still a relatively new treatment, which is why many people have a lot of questions about it. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Invisalign and the answers to those questions.

What is Invisalign and how does it work?


Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth and aligns the bite pattern. It does this through a series of clear plastic aligners that fit over the teeth. The aligners are virtually invisible so that most people cannot even see them. You wear the aligners according to your dentist’s instructions and your teeth will be gradually shifted into proper alignment.

How long does Invisalign take to work?


The average treatment time frame for Invisalign is 6 to 18 months. This includes the entire teeth alignment process from start to finish, but there will be a period of time after that where you will need to wear retainers to keep your teeth in the proper position.

Can Invisalign take the place of braces for all patients?


Not everyone is an ideal candidate for Invisalign. Invisalign is designed to treat minor misalignment of the teeth and bite. If you have severe orthodontic issues that need to be corrected, you may need braces in order to get the results you require. Your dentist can evaluate your teeth and give you a recommendation on whether or not Invisalign would be right for you.

How long do I need to wear my aligners each day?


It is recommended that you wear your aligners for at least 22 hours a day for best results. You can remove them to eat and brush your teeth, but the rest of the time you should be wearing them. The more you wear your aligners, the sooner your treatment will be complete.

Do I need to wear my aligners at night?


Yes, you should also wear your aligners all night, every night. If you don’t, your teeth could shift and you will lose the progress you made during the day.

How much does Invisalign cost?


The average cost of Invisalign treatment ranges from $3,000 to $7,000. The actual cost within that range depends on a few factors, such as the extent of your orthodontic issues, your dentist’s pricing, and the geographic location of your dentist’s office. The cost of Invisalign is comparable to the cost of braces.

Do I have to see an orthodontist to get Invisalign?


One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign is that you don’t have to see an orthodontist. Many dentists are now offering Invisalign in-office because the treatment is mostly handled by computer software. Invisalign does not require the same level of expertise that braces require.

Does Invisalign treatment hurt?


Most patients do not experience pain during treatment. When you start wearing your first aligner, you may experience some mild discomfort for the first few days. But Invisalign shifts your teeth gently for a less painful experience than braces. The aligners are also made of smooth, flexible plastic that will not irritate your mouth.

Is Invisalign considered to be a cosmetic treatment?


Although Invisalign can improve the appearance of your teeth and smile, it does serve an orthodontic purpose, meaning that it is not considered cosmetic for insurance purposes. If your dental insurance includes orthodontic coverage, that coverage will most likely include Invisalign.

Still have questions about Invisalign? Contact Meridian Dental Group


If you still have questions about Invisalign, contact Meridian Dental Group to set up a consultation. We can evaluate the current condition and position of your teeth to determine whether or not you are an ideal candidate for Invisalign. We will also be glad to answer any additional questions you may have about this treatment to help you decide whether or not it is right for you. 

Call 212-813-0850 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment. We look forward to providing you with the information you need about Invisalign.