Invisalign Frequently Asked Questions
At Eastern Virginia Orthodontics, we’re proud to serve patients in and around Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Chesapeake, VA. Whether you’re looking for an experienced team of orthodontists for your children, or want to improve your smile with adult treatment, you can trust our practice to deliver the results you desire.
One of our most popular orthodontic treatment options is Invisalign. It’s a great way to straighten your teeth without anyone knowing you’re undergoing treatment. Our orthodontic team of experts want to ensure you fully understand how Invisalign works and that all of your questions are answered. But, just in case, you’ll find the most common questions about Invisalign, and our answers to them below.
Q: How does Invisalign work?
A: Invisalign will slowly shift and move your teeth to the desired position with a set of clear, plastic aligners. The aligners will be custom-made to fit your teeth and your specific orthodontic treatment plan. Every two weeks you will change your clear aligners to move your teeth to a straighter, more functional position.
Q: Do I need to wear my Invisalign clear aligners around the clock?
A: In order for Invisalign to work as it’s designed, your clear aligners must be worn for approximately 22 hours every day. You can take them out when eating and when brushing & flossing your teeth.
Q: What about food restrictions with Invisalign?
A: Unlike braces, you are free to continue enjoying all your favorite foods as an Invisalign patient. Just remember to take your Invisalign aligners out when eating and, to
brush your teeth and your aligners before you put them back in.
Q: How will my speech sound when wearing the clear aligners?
A: It is natural for your speech to sound slightly different when you first start wearing the Invisalign aligners. However, by practicing talking aloud or singing, your speech will return to normal very quickly.
Q: Is it painful to be treated with Invisalign?
A: While it is not painful to be treated with Invisalign, you can expect to feel some soreness and discomfort for the first few days with each aligner in the series.
Q: Is gum chewing allowed with Invisalign?
A: We don’t recommend chewing gum while wearing your Invisalign as it will easily stick to your aligners to make a mess.
Q: Is it OK to smoke with the clear aligners in?
A: We discourage smoking with your Invisalign aligners in as it can easily stain or discolor them. And, we discourage all patients from smoking as it is not good for one’s oral health or overall health.
Q: How do I clean my Invisalign aligners?
A: Simply brush them using a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste and then rinse them off in cool water when done. Never put your clear aligners in boiling water to clean them as hot water can warp your aligners to make them unwearable. This also applies to putting your aligners in the dishwasher, they are not dishwasher safe and the plastic will warp out of shape.
Q: How often will I need to visit the orthodontist during treatment?
A: We will ask you to come into our office every five to six weeks so we can make sure your Invisalign treatment is on track.
Q: Will I have to wear a retainer after treatment?
A: Yes, in order to keep your teeth in their new positions, you will have to wear a retainer after treatment at night. With Invisalign,
retention is easy. Your last pair of clear aligners will become your retainer.
Q: Can kids and teens be treated with Invisalign?
A: Yes, as long as their teeth are completely grown in. Invisalign is a great option for
teens and now we have a few fteen-specific eatures to ensure they wear their clear aligners for the full 22 hours a day.
Q: How long will my Invisalign treatment last?
A: The average time spent wearing Invisalign is between 6 and 18 months, but every patient is different and your Invisalign treatment will be based on your teeth and smile goals.
Schedule Your Invisalign Appointment with Eastern Virginia Orthodontics Today!
What are you waiting for? Schedule your first orthodontic appointment for Invisalign today! We guarantee you will not be disappointed with your Invisalign clear aligner results. Contact one of our offices in Chesapeake, Norfolk, and Virginia Beach to arrange your first visit. We look forward to straightening your teeth with Invisalign!