A: Invisalign aligners are clear, but they are quite different than braces. Invisalign is a set of aligners that fit over your teeth and are removable. You can remove them when you brush your teeth and when you eat. Invisalign involves no wires or brackets so they are not braces.

A: In many cases, yes. Invisalign is an excellent method of straightening teeth that need to be moved horizontally, especially teeth in the front or sides that show when you smile. Braces may still be necessary if you have a very bad bite or if you have teeth that need to be moved vertically or rotated.

A: Invisalign is available to patients who have most of their permanent teeth, so it is not an option for young children. Teenagers can get Invisalign treatment with a special type of Invisalign that is called Invisalign Teen.

A: Each case is different, but on average, Invisalign treatment time is about a year or possibly less. For teens it is usually longer than it is for adults.

A: No, you will get a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks throughout your treatment. As your teeth gradually move, each set of new aligners will ensure a good fit, continued good progress of teeth straightening and fresh aligners.

A: You should wear your aligners all the time except when you are brushing your teeth and eating. Wearing your aligners about 22 hours a day, including when you are sleeping, ensures the fastest possible treatment time and good results.

A: You can use specially designed cleaner for Invisalign or use denture cleaner to soak them. You can brush your aligners gently with a toothbrush. Be sure to clean and floss your teeth regularly during your Invisalign treatment, not only to keep your teeth and gums healthy but to keep food particles from getting trapped under your aligners.

A: Call Aldie Family & Cosmetic Dentistry to make an appointment with Dr. Kanumilli for an Invisalign consultation. If you want to have straight teeth but are wary of getting braces, Invisalign may be the answer you’ve been looking for.