Invisalign FAQs Answered by our Kitchener Dentist

If your smile or bite is misaligned and you've been seeking information about braces, you may have heard rave reviews about Invisalign. But what does this tooth alignment method offer you? Our Kitchener dentist provides the answers to some frequently asked questions about Invisalign that we receive here at Kitchener East Family Dental.

1. What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a technique for correcting crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth. But unlike traditional braces, which use a combination of metal wires and brackets to straighten the teeth, Invisalign uses clear plastic aligner trays.

2. How does Invisalign correct dental alignment?

Invisalign's aligner trays are custom-fitted so they'll convey a tiny amount of corrective pressure, gently shifting the teeth into a new alignment. Your dentist then periodically trades one set of aligner trays for another, slightly different set to continue the alignment process.

3. How frequently are the aligner trays swapped out?

Multiple aligner trays are used over the course of Invisalign treatment. Generally, an aligner tray will be worn every day for 1 to 2 weeks before it is swapped our for the next aligner tray in the process.

4. Are Invisalign trays really invisible?

Invisalign trays are all but undetectable from any reasonable distance. Instead of shiny metal, people will see your own natural white teeth when you smile -- a great comfort for anyone who might feel self-conscious in traditional braces.

5. Why is Invisalign more convenient than regular braces?

Invisalign trays can be removed for brief periods of time. This means you can eat, smile or talk in close conversation without wearing them. It also means you can brush and floss more easily and successfully than you could with regular braces.

6. What can I expect from the initial dental exam?

Your dentist at our clinic will perform an initial "smile evaluation" to evaluate your alignment issues. This enables us to create a digital plan for your Invisalign treatment. We'll also administer a general checkup and cleaning.

7. How long does Invisalign treatment take?

Invisalign treatment length varies from person to person, but you can expect to use the trays for 12 to 18 months, with checkups every 4 to 6 weeks.

8. Can Invisalign treat all alignment issues?

Invisalign can treat many kinds of alignment problems, but it doesn't work for every kind of issue. A dental exam can determine whether Invisalign is right for you.

Contact Kitchener East Family Dental for Invisalign Information

If you'd rather greet the world with a white smile than a silver one as you straighten your teeth, it's time to learn more about Invisalign. Contact our dentist in Kitchener for any more questions or to schedule an appointment. Call (519) 578-2419 today.