Invisalign® Treatment

Young Man with Invisalign, clear aligners in Spokane, WA

Invisalign FAQ

  • What is it? Invisalign treatment uses a series of virtually invisible, removable, and comfortable aligners that allow you to smile more during treatment as well as after. Invisalign clear aligners are made with 3D computer imaging technology and have been proven effective. More than 70% of orthodontists in the US and Canada are certified to administer Invisalign treatment.
  • Why would I want it? Not only are the aligners virtually invisible, but they are also removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment. Plus, brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also more comfortable than traditional braces, with no metal or wires, which also usually means you spend less time in your doctor's office getting adjustments. Invisalign treatment also allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan when you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.
  • How does it work? You wear each set of aligners for about two weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. As you replace each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move — little by little, week by week — until they have straightened to their final positions. You'll visit us about once every six weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned. Total treatment time averages nine to 15 months and the average number of aligners worn during treatment is between 18 and 30, but both will vary from case to case.

Invisalign Teen FAQ

  • What is Invisalign Teen? The same thing as Invisalign but intended for the developmental stage of teenagers needing their teeth aligned. Patients can expect to come in and have their teeth scanned with the latest technology, followed by a plan for helping their teeth come together beautifully!
  • What are the benefits of Invisalign Teen? The aligner trays used are clear, removable, comfortable, and customized to everyone. Some teens do not like the idea of braces affixed to their teeth. If they are able to keep up with the 22-23 hours per day it’s required to wear them, Invisalign Teen is the alternative they’ve been looking for!
  • Can I eat anything? Unlike traditional metal braces, your Invisalign Teen aligners are removable, which means you can go ahead and eat all the things you love without worrying about breaking a bracket or losing a rubber band.
  • Do I have to worry about breaking them? Invisalign aligners are comfortable and very durable. They fit in with any of your extracurricular activities. So, whether you're swimming the 50-meter race, throwing the football out on the field, or playing the clarinet with the school band, you don't have to worry about your braces getting in the way!