Dr. Brady Okuda
November 12, 2024
Answers to Your Invisalign Questions
We’ve compiled the questions we hear frequently from our Henderson Invisalign® patients. Check out the answers below or, for even more information, schedule a consultation with Dr. Carey Noorda or Dr. Brady Okuda today!
How does Invisalign work?
Dr. Okuda or Dr. Noorda will create your Invisalign treatment plan directly on a 3D model of your mouth. Invisalign then fabricates the aligners based on the doctor’s specifications. The clear, plastic aligners slip over the teeth and fit snugly. They exert gentle, steady force to shift the teeth into their ideal places. The aligners are made in a series with each set designed to achieve certain tooth movements. As you change your aligners each week, your new smile takes shape.
Does Invisalign hurt?
Invisalign treatment doesn’t hurt. However, when you first begin treatment or sometimes after putting in a new set of aligners, your teeth can feel a little bit sensitive. Discomfort is mild and goes away in a day or two. Most patients don’t need it but if you’d like, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever like Tylenol.
Can I smoke while wearing Invisalign aligners?
No. Smoking will stain your aligners and they’ll no longer be invisible, which defeats the whole purpose of opting for an aesthetic treatment option.
How often will I need to visit the orthodontist during Invisalign treatment?
It will depend on your specific treatment plan but most patients visit us every six to eight weeks so we can monitor their progress. These appointments are quick and easy.
How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost of Invisalign varies depending on how complex your case is and how long your treatment lasts. At your consultation, we’ll evaluate your bite and let you know your exact Invisalign cost. To ensure treatment works for your budget, we accept most insurance and offer flexible payment options.
Will Invisalign affect my speech?
Most of our Henderson, Nevada Invisalign patients don’t notice much of a change in their speech. However, others do experience a slight lisp. This goes away and your speech returns to normal once you get acclimated to wearing your aligners.
Will I have to wear a retainer when I finish my Invisalign treatment?
Yes. Wearing a retainer is the only way to maintain your results for life. We offer clear retainers that work much like your Invisalign aligners and are just as undetectable. Eventually, you’ll only have to wear your retainer at night.
How do I know if I am a candidate for Invisalign?
To determine if Invisalign is the best choice for your smile, schedule a consultation at Okuda & Noorda Orthodontics online or by calling us at (702) 737-5500. Our expert orthodontists will assess your bite and help you make a confident choice about your care.
Are there food restrictions with Invisalign?
Nope! You can enjoy all of your favorite foods during Invisalign treatment because you’ll remove the aligners to eat and drink anything aside from plain water.
What are the benefits of Invisalign?
First and foremost, Invisalign aligners are made from smooth, clear plastic, making them virtually invisible. They’re also removable, which allows you to brush and floss as you normally would and eat whatever you’d like during treatment. Since Invisalign doesn’t have brackets and wires, you don’t need to worry about irritation or getting cut by your hardware while playing sports. No adjustments are required and there is nothing that can break, so appointments are shorter and you won’t have any emergency visits. The treatment is precise and thanks to the iTero® Invisalign Outcome Simulator, we can show you what your treatment will look like before you even get started.
Can I chew gum with Invisalign?
Chew away. There are no food restrictions with Invisalign and that includes gum. However, you’ll want to take your aligners out before chewing gum to avoid a mess.
How long does Invisalign treatment last?
The length of Invisalign treatment will depend on how severe your case is and how well you follow the instructions for wearing your aligners. When you come in for a consultation and we’ve had the chance to develop a diagnosis and treatment plan, we can give you a specific timeframe. For some patients, treatment is less than a year, while for others it’s about the same as braces.
How often should I wear my Invisalign aligners?
We recommend wearing your Invisalign aligners for around 22 hours per day for the best results. You’ll take them out only to brush and floss your teeth and when eating or drinking anything except for plain water.
How do I clean Invisalign aligners?
There are Invisalign cleaning crystals and other products available for purchase. However, the easiest way to clean your Invisalign aligners is to brush them with a toothbrush and rinse them with lukewarm water.
Does Invisalign work for teenagers?
Yes! We’re a leading provider of Invisalign Teen in Henderson and have been able to achieve outstanding results with the treatment. Invisalign Teen has features like eruption tabs, compliance indicators and even a few free replacement aligners included in the system, making it a great option for teens.
Expertly reviewed by:
Okuda Orthodontics dental team
November 12, 2024
At Okuda Orthodontics, Dr. Brady C. Okuda and the expert orthodontics team take great care in providing the highest level of orthodontic treatment for our patients. From Invisalign to braces our team of medical professionals will provide personalized and comfortable care that leaves your smile looking elevated and fresh.
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