How Does Invisalign Work?
Instead of attaching brackets and wires to your teeth, Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners that are comfortable to wear and offer excellent discretion. You’ll wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, removing them for daily meals, brushing, and flossing.
You’ll change your aligners every two to three weeks, according to Dr. Booth’s customized plan for your smile. Each case is unique, but most patients finish their treatment with Invisalign in 10 to 18 months, depending on their needs.
To keep your aligners clean, it is important to rinse them and brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear antibacterial soap; avoid using toothpaste or hot water, which can scratch the plastic or cause it to warp. When you first start wearing the aligners, you may notice a temporary minor impact on your speech, such as a slight lisp, but this typically resolves within a few days to a week as your tongue adjusts to the new appliance.
What Problems Can Invisalign Correct?
Invisalign is ideal for slight tooth movement or patients who have relapsed after previous orthodontic treatment. It can correct these concerns:
- Crossbites
- Crooked teeth
- Teeth that overlap
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Gaps between teeth