Invisalign FAQs

Invisalign is a series of clear, custom-fitted aligners designed to change the shape and appearance of your smile without the need for metal wires or brackets.

During the consultation, we use 3D digital imaging technology to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Then, a series of custom clear aligners will be created to fit your teeth precisely for each stage of the Invisalign treatment process.

Your Invisalign aligners will slowly move your teeth into their new positions throughout your treatment. After two weeks, you will change to the next set of aligners in the series.

This process will continue until your teeth are in their prescribed, corrected positions. Your dentist will determine the duration of your Invisalign treatment based on your specific needs.

The length of your treatment will depend on your individual orthodontic needs. Several factors can influence the duration, including the misalignment of your teeth or jaw, the shape of your bite, and the amount of movement needed to correct the issue.

Your Invisalign clear aligners are made with USP Class VI medical-grade, high molecular-weight polyurethane resins. They are made using a BPA (bisphenol A)-free material.

You will be switching your Invisalign clear aligners at home every two weeks. This means that you will only need to visit the dentist every four to six weeks for a routine check-up.

During these appointments, your dentist will review your progress and general oral health, answer your questions, and adjust your treatment as needed.

Here are some features you can expect when using Invisalign:

• A discreet, low-profile appearance
• Smooth construction for a more comfortable fit
• No adjustments are required. Only routine check-ins.
• Removable for eating, brushing and flossing

The cost of Invisalign varies depending on your specific treatment plan and desired results. For example, if you have severe malocclusion, you will likely require more sets of clear aligners. In many instances, the cost of Invisalign is similar to that of traditional orthodontic treatments, such as braces.

At Downtown Chilliwack Dental, we offer financing through Fairstone for Invisalign treatment. Speak to your dentist, or click here to learn more.

Invisalign clear aligners may not be suitable for everyone, but they could be a good fit for your lifestyle. You can remove your aligners whenever you need to eat, drink, brush, or floss. This means you won't have any dietary restrictions, and you’ll be able to maintain a thorough and consistent oral hygiene routine.

Did you know that you can remove your clear aligners while eating? This means you won’t have to give up your favourite foods.

To prevent staining your clear aligners, we recommend taking them out when consuming beverages like wine, coffee, or dark sodas.

Treatment varies for each individual. The number of sets of clear aligners you will require depends on your specific dental issues and your desired results. Only your dentist can provide an accurate estimate of the number of aligners needed after a thorough evaluation of your bite during an initial consultation.

If you are a teenager or adult with healthy teeth and gums, Invisalign may be a suitable option for you. Many adults are choosing to pursue orthodontic treatment today, largely because options like Invisalign are now available.

Yes! Invisalign offers aligners specifically designed for teenagers. Invisalign Teen aligners feature compliance indicators –  small blue dots that fade away after the aligners have been worn for two weeks – to help teens keep track of their treatment progress. Additionally, these aligners include eruption tabs, which create space for second molars and help prevent them from growing crooked.

Most patients change to their next set of aligners every two weeks or so. Speak with your dentist to determine exactly when you should be changing to your next set of clear aligners.

You should rinse your aligners each time you remove them to wash away saliva and debris that could cause decay.

1. Soak your aligners using a denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, and/or the official Invisalign cleaning crystals.
2. Always brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in. Good oral hygiene is crucial for preventing cavities and decay. Failing to brush and floss properly can trap food debris and bacteria between your teeth and aligners, increasing your risk of dental problems and bad breath.
3. Clean your aligners with a clear, anti-bacterial soft soap. Clear anti-bacterial soap is an excellent and inexpensive way to keep your aligners clear, fresh, and free from harmful bacteria.
4. Brushing your aligners should be done with care to avoid scratching them. That's it! Your aligners are clean!

If you play sports, you may appreciate the fact that your Invisalign clear aligners can be removed, allowing you to store them safely.

However, remember that Invisalign aligners must be kept in for at least 20 to 22 hours a day, so consider that when planning your time playing sports and eating.

You'll also want to invest in a sports mouth guard to protect your teeth. Orthodontic treatment can cause your teeth to loosen slightly as they shift into their new positions, making them more susceptible to damage.

Your Invisalign aligners will come with a case that provides a safe place to keep them when not in use.