We get a lot of questions from our adult patients about Invisalign. Below we have answered the five most common questions we get about the clear aligners from patients who are considering the treatment for themselves or their child. If your question isn’t answered, give us a call at (207) 873-7425 to speak with one of Smiles for Maine Orthodontics’s knowledgeable and friendly staff members.
1) How does Invisalign work?
As an Invisalign provider, Dr. Patterson and Dr. Ruff at Smiles for Maine Orthodontics, use precision technology to create a high-resolution, interactive image of your teeth and uses that to produce a comprehensive treatment plan that creates the pathway to your better smile. Every one-to-two weeks along the way you will get a new 3D printed aligner that applies just the right amount of force on your teeth. Each one is custom-made for your mouth to guide you toward your goal. Watch this video for a primer on the technology behind Invisalign and how it works.
2) How do I clean the aligners?
Caring for your aligners is easy. Rinse your aligners nightly and gently brush them with your toothbrush to keep them fresh and clean. There’s also a cleaning system available to keep your aligners clear. But, for the most part, you’ll only be wearing each custom-made set of aligners for about one to two weeks before being replaced so there isn’t enough time for them to get dingy if you brush them nightly.
3) What can’t I eat?
Trick question. There’s nothing you can’t eat! Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign doesn’t have restrictions on what you can’t chew while undergoing treatment. That’s because Invisalign appliances are removable. That said, we wouldn’t be doing our duty if we didn’t warn you against eating sugary snacks and encouraging you to brush after every meal. Otherwise, when it comes to enjoying all of your favorite foods, we say go for it! Just remember that you need to wear your Invisalign appliances 20 to 22 hours a day for best results.
4) Are they comfortable?
Dr. Patterson and Dr. Ruff will take a precise scan of your teeth and plan out every move needed to give you the perfect smile. The treatment plan is personalized to fit your mouth. There is no guesswork so every aligner is made to ensure the utmost comfort, and they’re precision trimmed so they don’t cut your gums. Also, the patented plastic material is flexible and forms a snug fit over your teeth.
5) Is Invisalign plastic safe?
The aligners are made from SmartTrack material, an FDA-approved, flexible plastic that was invented by bioengineers exclusively for Invisalign. They contain no BPA, BPS, latex, or gluten so we are confident that the material is safe for your mouth.
…and one more for good measure: 6) Is Invisalign good for teens?
Yes. Invisalign is not just for adults who don’t want to wear traditional metal braces. And, the overall cost of Invisalign is becoming much more comparable to metal braces. If your teen wants the benefits that come with Invisalign, click below to schedule a complimentary consultation.
Give us a call and make an appointment for a consultation. Smiles for Maine Orthodontics offers complimentary new patient exams. You can visit our website or call us at: (207) 873-7425 to request an appointment
