Invisalign FAQ

Legendary Smiles is proud to offer Invisalign treatment plans as an Invisalign Provider to patients in & around the Reno, Sparks, & Carson City area. If you’re considering Invisalign as a possible treatment option to straighten your teeth, you may have a lot of questions about the process and how it works. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from patients.

Q: How long does Invisalign treatment take?
A: Every case is different, so the length of the treatment depends on the patient’s specific needs. Each set of aligners needs to worn for about 1-2 weeks for them to effectively move your teeth in the position needed for the next stage in treatment. The number of aligners that each patient will need varies, but the program usually takes around 18-24 months for adults on average.

Q: Is there any discomfort with Invisalign® treatment?
A: While Invisalign is known to be less painful than traditional metal braces, it is common to experience some slight discomfort with each new set of aligners. Typically, patients describe the feeling as pressure being exerted upon their teeth, since the aligners are actually exerting controlled amounts of force on your teeth to move them. This pressure is actually a sign that Invisalign is working, and that you’re on your way to your improved smile.

Q: How often should I wear my aligners?
A: The aligners are most effective if worn for about 22 hours daily. It is recommended that you only remove the aligners for meals.

Q: Are there any restrictions to what I can eat while in treatment?
A: There are very few restrictions for what you can eat or drink while going through the treatment process, but it is important to brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in after a meal or snack. If you forget to take out your aligners before eating, or if you put them back in without brushing your teeth, make sure that you clean the aligners.  If the aligners are not clean, it is easy for sugar and other particles to build up that may cause damage to your teeth.

Q: Will wearing the aligners affect my speech?
A: When you first begin treatment, there will be a short period when your mouth will adjust to wearing the aligners. This period usually only lasts for about 1 or 2 days, after which your speech should completely return to normal. The more you speak while wearing the aligners, the faster you will adjust.

Q: Can I chew gum with the aligners?
A: The aligners should be removed before chewing gum, since it will stick to the aligners.

Q: Can I smoke with the aligners in?
A: Smoking while wearing the aligners may cause the aligners to become discolored, so it is not recommended.

Q: How do I keep my aligners clean?
A: Use a soft bristled brush and regular toothpaste to keep them clean. If you accidentally eat or drink while wearing your aligners, simply remove them and brush them thoroughly and rinse. The important thing is to ensure that there are no food or sugar particles, on your teeth or on the aligners, which would cause decay and damage to your teeth.

Q: How often do I have to see orthodontist while wearing Invisalign®?
A: It is recommended that you schedule appointments with your orthodontist every 8-12 weeks in order to check on how your treatment is progressing.

Q: What happens after my treatment is complete?
A: In order to preserve your investment and maintain your new and improved smile, it is necessary to wear a retainer to hold your teeth in place. After a few months of full-time wearing, the retainer can be worn at night, and will prevent teeth from “relapsing” or moving out of position.

Q: Does Invisalign work for kids/teens?
A: Invisalign is generally not for kids, but can work for teens as long as their teeth and second molars have grown in completely. For more information, visit our page on Invisalign Teen.

Q: When Can I Get Started With Invisalign?
If you’re ready to get started with Invisalign, schedule an appointment with Legendary Smiles today. We are eager to discuss your options and a treatment plan that’s best for you.  Contact our office by phone at (775) 332-1750. We look forward to helping you get the smile you’ve always dreamed about.