How long do I have to wear Invisalign aligners?
This timeline changes for every patient, depending on what kind of changes need to be made and how severe the changes are. The average wearer has Invisalign on from a year to 18 months, but that may be longer.
How much does Invisalign cost?
This cost is dependent on how long you will be receiving treatment and how much straightening is needed, which informs how many aligners you will be getting during treatments. Fortunately, most dental insurance providers do cover Invisalign. If your insurance does not cover Invisalign or you simply do not have insurance, make sure to ask about financing and payment plans during your consultation.
What is the 30-minute rule when it comes to Invisalign?
The 30-minute rule is a good way to keep your treatment on track. It means you shouldn’t leave your aligners out for more than 30 minutes at a time during the day. Short breaks are fine for meals or brushing, but wearing the trays as close to 22 hours a day as possible is key for steady progress.
How do I clean my Invisalign trays?
Keeping your trays clean is important, not just for your teeth, but for your breath, too. Gently brush them with a soft toothbrush and rinse them with lukewarm water at least once a day. You can also soak them in a cleaning solution made for aligners a few times a week to keep them fresh and clear.
What's the longest time I can leave my Invisalign off for?
You should try not to go longer than 30 to 60 minutes without wearing your trays. The more time you go without them, the more likely your teeth will shift slightly out of place, which can slow down or even undo some of your progress. Quick meals or brushing are fine, but it’s best not to push it beyond that.
What happens if I don't wear the Invisalign or wear it less than recommended?
If you don’t wear your aligners consistently, your teeth won’t move the way they’re supposed to. That means your treatment might take longer, and you might even need to go back to a previous set of trays. To stay on schedule, it's really important to wear them at least 20 to 22 hours per day.
Will I need a retainer after Invisalign treatment?
Yes, you’ll need to wear a retainer once your Invisalign treatment is complete. This helps your teeth stay in their new position and prevents them from shifting back. Most patients start by wearing their retainers full time, then gradually move to wearing them only at night, based on the doctor’s recommendation.
Can I skip Invisalign for a day?
It’s not recommended. Skipping a full day can interrupt the movement of your teeth and cause discomfort when you put the aligners back in. Missing even a single day can stretch out the total time you’ll need treatment, so it’s best to stay as consistent as possible.
Can you drink alcohol with Invisalign?
You can still enjoy a drink, but you should always remove your trays first. Drinking alcohol with the trays in can cause staining or warping, especially with hot or sugary drinks. After drinking, be sure to rinse your mouth and clean the trays before putting them back in.
What age can I start Invisalign treatment?
Invisalign can be started once all permanent teeth have come in, usually around age 12 to 14. Every case is different, though, so a consultation is the best way to know for sure. Dr. Greenberg often recommends Invisalign Teen once the mouth is fully developed and ready for consistent aligner use.
