Invisalign FAQ

A: Dr. Ibrahim plans out the movements of your teeth on a 3D, computerized simulation of your mouth. She sends these specifications to Invisalign® and they create a series of custom-molded, clear, plastic aligner trays based on her prescription. The aligners use gentle, steady force to shift your teeth incrementally into place. Each set is programmed to achieve certain tooth movements and as you move through the series, you get closer and closer to your new smile.

A: No. Invisalign® doesn’t hurt. However, when you put in a new set of aligners, your teeth can be slightly sensitive for a day or two, which just means the treatment is working.

A: For the best results, you should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day. You’ll only take them out to brush and floss your teeth and to eat.

A: While Invisalign® doesn’t require adjustments, you’ll still need to visit Innovative Orthodontic Centers so we can keep an eye on your treatment progress. Usually, you’ll receive enough aligner trays to allow you to come in every two months. However, the frequency of visits will ultimately depend on your needs.

A: Of course. Invisalign® Teen was made specifically for teenagers and we’ve achieved some pretty amazing results with it. There are special features, including eruption tabs that adjust to a teenager’s changing mouth, a blue dot compliance indicator that fades when aligners have been worn as prescribed and several free replacement aligners.

A: The duration of Invisalign® treatment will depend on how complex your case is and how well you follow our instructions for wearing your aligners. It varies by individual and some patients finish in six months, while for others, the length is similar to that of braces treatment. If you’d like to hit fast forward on the process, ask us about AcceleDent®, which has the ability to cut treatment time in half when used in conjunction with Invisalign®.

A: For the first few days of treatment, you might find that your speech sounds a little off or you have a slight lisp. Don’t worry, your speech will return to normal once you get used to having the aligners in your mouth.

A: You know what we’re going to say here. You shouldn’t smoke at all. It’s not only terrible for your overall health, it’s also bad news for your teeth and gums. You can’t smoke when wearing your aligners because the nicotine will stain them yellow, which defeats the purpose of opting for invisible treatment.

A: Yes, but be sure to take your aligners out first to avoid a mess. Keep in mind, you’ll need to wear your aligners for about 22 hours a day, so don’t leave them out too long.

A: At your consultation, once Dr. Ibrahim has had a chance to evaluate your bite and needs, our treatment coordinator will go over the cost of Invisalign® with you. There are never any hidden fees and we’re completely upfront and transparent about our pricing. We don’t think your finances should hold you back from getting the smile you deserve and we have options to suit your budget. We’re a preferred provider with numerous insurance carriers and file with all PPO insurances. We offer in-office payment plans and discounts for payment in full and we accept CareCredit financing plans. We’ll also work with your flex spending account.

A: Keeping your aligners clean is simple. Brush them with a toothbrush and a dab of toothpaste and then rinse them with lukewarm water. Invisalign® also offers cleaning systems.

A: Yes. The only way to retain your teeth in their final position is by wearing a retainer. At Innovative Orthodontic Centers, we offer Vivera® retainers. These custom retainers are from the makers of Invisalign®. They’re durable, comfortable and, of course, clear because no one wants to go from invisible aligners to a visible retainer. You’ll wear your retainer full-time for a short period to lock-in your bite and then just at night after that.

A: Dr. Ibrahim takes great pride in being a clinical expert with Invisalign®, so come in and find out how to get started on your Invisalign® journey. As an Invisalign Diamond+ Provider and a board-certified orthodontist, she can determine the ideal course of action to give you the best outcome. Everyone is a candidate for the treatment when Dr. Ibrahim is your doctor!

A: Invisalign is NOT just cosmetic. Invisalign and braces have the same insurance code since they both address a patient’s functional needs and improve their bite and oral health. If you have orthodontic benefits or coverage, you can use it in our office for your Invisalign treatment. We accept the following insurance including Aetna, Assurant, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Delta Dental, DenteMax, DNOA, Guardian, Humana, MetLife, Principal, United Concordia and United Healthcare.

A: Oral hygiene is a breeze with Invisalign. Since the Invisalign trays are removable and there are no brackets and wires in the way, you can brush and floss effectively, which is why our Invisalign patients’ oral hygiene is impeccable. Be sure to take the trays out when drinking sugary drinks and before eating. Then, brush your teeth before putting them back in.