Is Invisalign treatment right for me?

Yes! Invisalign treatment can be a great solution for both adults and teens looking for a virtually invisible method to improve their smile. Our innovations and technological advancements make it possible to fix nearly all common teeth-straightening and bite issues, from simple to complex — all without interrupting your busy life. And, thanks to a discreet blue dot on the outside of teen aligners, parents can be sure their child is wearing their clear aligners enough.

What is the treatment process?

Invisalign Treatment starts with a consultation with an Invisalign-trained doctor. Your doctor will evaluate your smile and then map out a precise, customized digital treatment plan that showcases the step-by-step transformation of your smile. Once you approve your plan, your unique aligners will be created. You will wear each set of aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day, changing to a new set of aligners every 1 to 2 weeks, as directed by your doctor. Each set of aligners will gently and gradually shift your teeth into place, according to your treatment plan, until you reach your beautiful new smile.

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

Depending on the complexity of your case, you could complete your treatment in as little as 6 months. But you’ll start seeing results in a matter of weeks.

What are Invisalign clear aligners made of and what do they look like?

Invisalign clear aligners are made of flexible plastic — specifically, a patented thermoplastic material called  SmartTrack created exclusively for Invisalign Treatment.

How much does Invisalign treatment cost?

In most cases, the cost of Invisalign treatment is similar to the cost of braces. Your doctor will determine the cost of your treatment based on how complex your case is and how many aligners you need.

There are several options to make Invisalign treatment more affordable for you, from using insurance and tax-free dollars to a monthly payment plan.

Is Invisalign treatment more expensive than braces?

Many doctors offer flexible and affordable monthly payment plans, which allow you to make small payments through the course of your Invisalign treatment rather than all at once.

Doctors may also offer financing through LendingPoint. LendingPoint is a third-party patient financing program that makes it easier for you to get the treatment or procedures you want and need.

Additionally, you can use your FSA or HSA to pay for Invisalign treatment using tax-free dollars. For more information about payment options available with Invisalign treatment, click here.

How many people have used Invisalign clear aligners?

Over 14 million people², including more than 4 million teens³, have used Invisalign clear aligners to transform their smiles.

How is Invisalign treatment different than other teeth straightening options?

Invisalign clear aligners are made from patented SmartTrack material which moves teeth comfortably and predictably.⁴

Do Invisalign clear aligners contain Bisphenol A (BPA)?

All Invisalign aligner and retainer materials are made of medical-grade, high molecular weight, thermoplastic polymers. These materials were selected for use in aligners and retainers based on their properties and safety classification, and have a long history of FDA approvals for long term use inside the human body. Tests conducted to determine the biocompatibility of these materials show they are biocompatible and pass all applicable regulatory requirements and thresholds for human wear in the mouth.

Based on our current knowledge and testing of the raw materials and processes used in the manufacture of aligners and retainers, we are not aware of any latex, parabens, phthalates, glutaraldehyde, epoxy or Bisphenol A (BPA) present in our aligners or retainers. Of course, as with any medical device, you should consult with your health professional about your aligner or retainer treatment and any applicable risks of use.

How old is the company behind Invisalign clear aligners?

Align Technology, Inc., the company that makes Invisalign clear aligners, was founded in 1997.

Has the FDA approved Invisalign treatment?

Yes, Invisalign aligners are classified as Class II medical devices by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Align Technology, Inc. received the necessary 510(k) clearance from the FDA to sell and market Invisalign treatment in 1998.

I am currently wearing braces. Can I make the switch to Invisalign treatment?

Possibly! Doctors are treating a significant number of patients with a combination of braces and Invisalign clear aligners — consult your doctor to determine the best treatment approach for your smile.

Since having my braces removed, my teeth have shifted. Can Invisalign treatment fix this?

Yes, Invisalign clear aligners can treat nearly all common teeth-straightening issues, from simple to complex. Many people who formerly had braces choose Invisalign treatment as the discrete solution to improve their smile when they find that their teeth have shifted back.

I have veneers or crowns. Will Invisalign clear aligners work with them?

It depends. Talk with your doctor about the dental work you’ve had done, including veneers and crowns, and he or she will evaluate your individual needs.

I have bridgework on several teeth. Will Invisalign clear aligners still work?

Invisalign clear aligners are designed to move each tooth individually. Because bridgework connects two or more teeth, clear aligners may not be effective.

Can anyone tell that I’m wearing the aligners?

Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible. Others may not even notice you’re wearing them, making Invisalign treatment a seamless fit with your lifestyle.

Can I take my aligners off whenever I need to?

Yes, you can remove your Invisalign aligners for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. You can take them off for special occasions, like a wedding, job interview, or for playing your favorite sport or instrument. Your doctor will tell you how long to wear your aligners each day, but typically people wear their Invisalign aligners 20 to 22 hours a day to get the best results.

Are there any restrictions on what I can eat while in treatment?

None! Invisalign clear aligners are removable, so there are no food restrictions at all (hello popcorn!). With traditional wires and brackets, there’s a long list of foods you unfortunately can’t enjoy because they can damage or get stuck in your braces.

Is Invisalign treatment painful?

Invisalign treatment moves your teeth by applying gentle, constant force, but some people do feel temporary discomfort for the first few days of wearing a new set of aligners. Typically, people describe it as feeling “pressure” and it’s normal — it’s a sign your Invisalign clear aligners are working and transforming your smile.

Please see your doctor if you have any concerns or experience continued discomfort.

Sometimes when I remove my aligners, my teeth feel loose. Is that common?

Yes. As your Invisalign aligners gradually shift your teeth into their proper position, your gums are re-forming around each tooth as it moves. Be sure to talk to your doctor about any concerns.

Will Invisalign treatment still work if I only wear my aligners while I sleep?

What’s the best way to clean my aligners?

The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water and using the Invisalign Cleaning Crystals or special cleaning tablets. It’s important that you brush your teeth after each meal before re-inserting your aligners to maintain good oral hygiene.

1. Compared to Invisalign aligners previously made from single-layer (EX30) material.
2. Data on file at Align Technology, as of September 30, 2022
3. Data on file at Align Technology
4. SmartTrack material when combined with SmartForce features and SmartStage technology allows more predictable tooth movement.