Invisalign straightens crowded, gapped or crooked teeth with trays made from a digital scan of your mouth. You swap to a new tray every week or two, wear them about 22 hours a day, and take them out to eat and brush.
Who it works for
- Adults who had braces as a teenager and have seen their teeth shift back
- Teens who want to avoid brackets and wires
- Crowding, spacing, overbite, underbite and crossbite in most mild to moderate cases
- Patients preparing for veneers or implants who need a tooth moved first
Some bites still do best with traditional braces. If that is you, we will say so at the consultation and refer you to an orthodontist we trust.
How it works
- Free consultation and scan
A digital scanner maps your teeth in a few minutes, with no gooey impressions. You see a simulation of the finished smile the same day. - Your aligners arrive
Within a few weeks you pick up your first sets. Small tooth-colored attachments may be bonded to a few teeth to help the trays grip. - Check-ins every 6 to 8 weeks
Short visits to confirm the teeth are tracking and hand you the next batch of trays. Most treatments run 6 to 18 months. - Retainers
When the movement is done you get retainers to keep the result. Nightly wear is the habit that makes it permanent.
Invisalign compared with braces
| Feature | Invisalign | Metal braces |
|---|---|---|
| Visible | Nearly invisible | Yes |
| Eating | Remove the trays, eat anything | No popcorn, hard or sticky foods |
| Brushing and flossing | Same as always | Harder; more cavities around brackets |
| Office visits | Every 6 to 8 weeks | Every 4 weeks for tightening |
| Depends on | Wearing the trays 22 hours a day | The wire, whether you cooperate or not |
Common questions
How much does Invisalign cost?
It depends on how far the teeth need to move. You get a written quote at the free consultation, many dental plans contribute an orthodontic benefit, and monthly payment plans are available.
Will it affect how I talk?
Some patients have a slight lisp for the first day or two. It goes away as your tongue adjusts.
Can I drink coffee with the trays in?
Only water. Anything hot can warp the plastic and anything colored will stain it. Take them out, drink, rinse, put them back.
What if I lose a tray?
Call us. Usually you move to the next tray early or go back to the previous one until a replacement arrives.