Invisalign® Frequently Asked Questions
Instead of metal brackets and wires, Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, virtually invisible plastic trays called aligners. Every week or two, you switch to a new set of trays. Each aligner is engineered to gently and precisely shift your teeth into the ideal position mapped out by Dr. Gustavo Salas.
Like any new orthodontic appliance, there is a short adjustment period of a few days. You might experience a very minor lisp at first, but your tongue will quickly adapt to the smooth plastic. Within a few days, you will be speaking completely normally.
To get the fastest, most efficient results, you should wear your clear aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day. You only take them out to eat, drink anything other than plain water, or brush and floss your teeth.
None at all! That is one of the biggest benefits of choosing clear aligners over braces. Because you remove your aligners before eating, you can continue to enjoy your favorite Texas BBQ, crunchy fruits, and snacks. Just remember to brush your teeth before snapping the aligners back in.
Getting your aligners is completely pain-free. However, you will feel a temporary sense of pressure and mild soreness for the first day or two after switching to a new stage of trays. This is completely normal and a great sign that your treatment is working to safely shift your teeth.
We value your busy schedule, so we maximize urban efficiency. We typically schedule simple check-ins once every 6 to 8 weeks to track your progress and hand you your next batch of custom trays.
Cleaning is simple. You can brush your aligners gently using a soft toothbrush and cool or lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the custom-fit plastic.
Yes, wearing a retainer is absolutely vital for every orthodontic patient. Teeth have a natural memory and will try to shift back over time. Wearing a comfortable, clear retainer at night ensures your beautiful new city smile stays perfectly straight forever.
The investment varies depending on the complexity of your alignment goals and how many trays you need. Many dental insurance plans offer an orthodontic benefit that can cover a significant portion. At City Smiles Dental and Orthodontics, we keep treatment an accessible investment by designing interest-free monthly payment plans to fit your household budget.