Woman putting in clear aligners West Michigan dentists MI Smiles

Unlike in years past, you now have more options when it comes to straightening your smile. One alternative form of treatment that closely mimics the efficiency of traditional braces and is proudly provided by our West Michigan cosmetic dentists is Invisalign®. Yes, the surge in popularity of clear aligners has proven that it’s not all about brackets and wires anymore if you don’t want it to be!

To help familiarize you with this option before a potential consultation with our team, here are our answers to commonly asked questions about Invisalign clear aligners.

What Does Invisalign Treatment Involve?

Invisalign can be described as virtually invisible dental aligners designed to gradually straighten teeth and adjust a patient’s bite over time. This alternative to traditional metal braces is perfect for individuals looking for straight, healthy teeth without the hassle of metal wires or brackets.

Our Invisalign dentists will begin the clear aligner process by conducting a comprehensive examination of your teeth and oral structure to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for treatment. Using our in-house iTero® digital scanner, we’ll take precise, 3D digital impressions of your teeth—no messy or goopy molds required.

These detailed impressions are then sent to the Invisalign lab, where skilled technicians will create a customized series of aligners designed specifically for your unique dental needs. Each set of aligners is crafted to progressively guide your teeth into their ideal position. The process of creating your aligners typically takes a few weeks, after which you’ll return to one of our offices to receive your aligners and begin your journey to a straighter, healthier smile.

How Do I Know If I’m a Candidate for Invisalign?

Teens and adults are eligible for and welcome to try Invisalign treatment unless their particular dental situation requires extensive orthodontic treatment. Our dentists will perform a quick oral examination to confirm your candidacy before aligner production can begin. From there, we’ll either move forward with the next steps or will refer you to a local orthodontist for more tailored assistance.

How Long Does Treatment Take?

Treatment length varies per individual and may be shorter for some, longer for others. With that said, on average, desired results can be accomplished in 12-18 months. Each set of aligners must be worn for a few weeks. After that time has passed, you’ll proceed to the next set of aligners in the series and continue this process until our dentists see that your teeth have reached ideal alignment.

Does Invisalign Work Similarly to Traditional Braces?

Despite their clear appearance, Invisalign aligners operate much like metal braces. The top and bottom aligners fit right over your teeth and carefully apply controlled force to ensure they are moved into a better position. While braces use metal brackets and wires to do their thing, clear aligners are custom-fit and tight enough to accomplish a similar effect on your smile.

Am I Too Old for Invisalign?

Many older adults often think they’re too old for orthodontic treatment, but that’s simply not true. Clear aligners can be an excellent option for mature patients looking to improve their dental health and appearance. Age does not disqualify you from treatment, as long as your teeth and gums are in good condition.

For seniors, Invisalign can help address issues like tooth crowding, gaps, or alignment problems that may have developed over the years. Straightening teeth is not just about aesthetics; it can also improve oral health by making it easier to clean teeth properly and reducing the risk of gum disease or tooth decay.

How Often Do I Have to Wear Each Set of Aligners?

You should wear your aligners for 20-22 hours a day. They are removable but should only be taken out when eating, drinking, brushing, or flossing. If instructions are not followed or aligners are not worn for long enough, corrections may be necessary which will delay progress.

What Are the Benefits of Invisalign?

As a treatment option, Invisalign has multiple unique benefits when compared to metal braces. Some of those include:

  • The clear aligners are subtle and nearly invisible to family, friends, and co-workers.
  • You can remove your aligners to eat, drink beverages other than water, brush, and floss.
  • Freedom to enjoy an unrestricted diet; no need to avoid sticky or chewy foods.
  • Easier to practice oral hygiene thanks to their removable nature.

How Do I Care for My Clear Aligners?

Just like your natural teeth, your clear aligners should be cleaned at least twice daily to ensure they do not stain or accumulate bacteria. It is also encouraged that you run the aligners under lukewarm water every time you take them out. Many patients find it easiest to clean them at the same time they brush their teeth, which is typically in the morning, before bed, and after meals or snacks.

To clean your clear aligners:

  • Rinse them with water (never hot)
  • Gently brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or clear, unscented soap
  • Thoroughly rinse them after brushing is done
  • Store the aligners in a protective case whenever not in use

If you make it through treatment with no stains on your aligners, but you wish your final smile was brighter, our dentists offer both at-home and in-office teeth whitening.

What Happens After I’m Done With Invisalign Treatment?

To maintain the ideal alignment of your teeth and prevent any unwanted shifting, our dentists will give you a custom retainer to use. This is the retention phase of your treatment and while it may seem bothersome, it’s a necessary part of keeping the smile you and our dentists have worked hard to create.

Make An Invisalign Appointment Today

If you’re looking for an alternative to metal braces, Invisalign clear aligners can transform your smile in a discreet way. Ask our Invisalign dentists serving West Michigan today about getting started and what treatment will look like for you. Call one of our MI Smiles Dental locations to schedule an appointment.

This blog post has been updated.