Wright & Feusier Orthodontics is a certified Invisalign provider, and Dr. Wright has earned the reputation of being one of the top Invisalign providers in Santa Barbara County. If you’re located in Santa Barbara, or Buellton, and are thinking about getting Invisalign, here are some common questions that we often get.
How does Invisalign work? A series of custom fit trays are worn that move your teeth slowly to their final position
Is Invisalign right for me? Most people who are candidates for braces can use aligners too. While there are a few specific problems that may be better addressed by braces, major improvements may be made with almost any smile with aligners
How long will treatment with Invisalign take? Aligners are generally faster than braces. It depends on the complexity of the case, but most aligner cases are completed in around one year
How much does Invisalign cost? While it depends on the complexity of the case, most treatments run approximately the same as braces
Will I need to wear a retainer after treatment with Invisalign? Retainers are important to keep teeth straight whether you used braces or invisalign. Usually they only need to be worn at night
Are there any potential side effects or complications associated with Invisalign? Not usually, if done correctly, by an orthodontist specifically trained to use them.
How often will I need to visit the orthodontist during treatment with Invisalign? Approximately every 10-12 weeks during the treatment
How should I care for my Invisalign aligners? Brushing them when brushing your teeth is usually sufficient to keep them clean and shiny
Can I eat and drink with the aligners in? Not anything that contains either sugar (it will hold it against your teeth and may cause cavities) or color (it may cause staining of the teeth and trays). Drinking clear, sugar-free liquids is fine.
Will Invisalign treatment be painful? Treatment with aligners is usually much less uncomfortable than with braces. You may experience a little soreness when you get started, or when changing trays, but it usually is gone in a day. Over the counter pain relievers should be sufficient.
Here are some of the rules to follow after you’ve got Invisalign
- Wear your aligners as prescribed by your orthodontist. You should wear your aligners for at least 22 hours per day, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss.
- Keep your aligners clean. Rinse your aligners with cold water before putting them back in your mouth, and brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste to remove any plaque or food particles.
- Handle your aligners with care. Avoid bending or twisting your aligners, as they can become damaged if handled improperly.
- Wear your aligners in the correct order. Make sure to wear each set of aligners in the prescribed order, as determined by your orthodontist.
- Visit your orthodontist regularly. Follow your orthodontist’s instructions for how often to visit for check-ups and adjustments.
- Inform your orthodontist of any issues. If you experience any pain or discomfort, or if your aligners do not fit properly, contact your orthodontist for guidance.
