What is Invisalign | How Does It Work? (7 QUICK EASY FACTS)
Invisalign has been gaining popularity. This is because people want straight teeth without causing attention. The aligners also push teeth rather than pull. Thus, reducing discomfort and the removable factor allows for a normal diet. In this post, we’ll answer your question – What is Invisalign treatment? Let’s get to it.
Contents
People Also Ask
- Is Invisalign as good as braces?
Yes. also better than traditional braces. The final result is the same, alas, the discomfort less.
- Is Invisalign cheaper than braces?
No, the price of Invisalign is slightly more than traditional braces. You need to seek the cost of each individual orthodontist.
- How painful is Invisalign?
It hovers around discomfort instead of pain. The pushing rather than the pulling is what removes the most pain.
- What does an Invisalign do?
Invisalign moves teeth using a set of custom made aligners that you replace on a timed schedule.
What Is Invisalign and How Does It Work?
This treatment gets its name from the first company that started producing them. Invisalign aligners are custom made and shaped to the patient’s individual mouth. And they are thin, lightweight, and virtually invisible.
Most orthodontists recommend that patients wear them for at least 22 hours each day. This is to get the desired effect and a sensible time frame. They need removing before eating or drinking. Over time, these trays help to realign teeth into the preferred positions. Many people prefer them because they are not that visible. Perfect for certain occasions.
How Was It Developed?
Stanford business students, Zia Chishti and Kelsey Wirth, were the inventors. They started the company Align Technology in 1997. The company began under the theory to shift teeth by applying gentle pressure. This is instead of gluing brackets and archwires into a patient’s mouth. A new method for straightening teeth was born.
They had trouble gaining funding at first. The team impressed investors in time. In one business meeting, they revealed they were wearing aligners at the end. Investors and orthodontists realized the potential behind the idea. The invisible method of straightening teeth was impressive, so the business expanded.
A new method for straightening teeth was born.
What is Invisalign Made of?
Invisalign aligners use of strong material is successful. More robust than that of the basic plastic that we encounter daily. Aligners are a high-grade medical polyurethane, biocompatible methylene diphenyl diisocyanate and 1.6-hexanediol. The end result is a strong yet comfortable material.
How Do Aligners Move Teeth?
The aligner process moves teeth through a very gradual process. This process relies on switching trays. An orthodontist takes a 3D model of a patient’s teeth. Then a treatment plan designed to shift the teeth to a straighter configuration.
The aligner trays manufactured with robotic lasers. This creates a custom set of trays that shift from crooked to straight. Every two weeks or so, the patient will change their tray for a straight tray.
How Do You Take Care of Aligners?
Dental hygiene is important while wearing Invisalign aligners. Because you can otherwise stain your teeth or get cavities. You will need to remove aligners before eating. Plus, drinking sugary or alcoholic beverages, or chewing gum.
You should rinse your aligners before placing them back in your teeth. You can brush with a soft-bristle toothbrush. Many aligner companies provide cleaning and sanitizing solutions for aligners.
How Long Will You Need to Wear Aligners?
The precise amount of Invisalign treatment time will vary depending on your case. Generally, a person with an average amount of misalignment is roughly twelve months. Patients need a new set of trays every one or two weeks.
Yet, each individual case requires a unique approach. Some people may need to wear aligners for a longer period or take more time between new trays. If you do not wear your aligners enough each day, it may set back your treatment process.
Who is a Good Candidate for Aligners?
Like any other orthodontic procedure, you will need to consult with an orthodontist. The expert will see if Invisalign treatment will work for your specific situation. They can only shift teeth, so they cannot correct overbites or other major jaw issues. Aligners were only used for very mild teeth misalignments. But, new advances are making them more effective for severe cases. You can use Invisalign to fix:
- Crossbites
- Teeth crowding
- Teeth gaps
- Malloccusions
…and are generally recommended for patients 13 and up. Aligners are ideal for patients who want to avoid wearing traditional braces.
Conclusion
If you live in Minnesota, then you can have an expert examination. A knowledgeable orthodontist at McDermott Orthodontics. Dr. Michael McDermott offers appointments at several facilities, including:
- Baxter – 218-829-1630
- Brainerd – 218-829-1630
- Pequot Lakes – 218-568-560
- Delano – 763-972-4444
Dr. McDermott has been caring for adults, teenagers and children for 15 years. Making sure to provide customized orthodontic devices that include:
- Invisalign – clear plastic aligners for teenagers and adults
- Braces – ceramic, metal and Damon
- Retainers – worn after orthodontic treatment ends
To reduce their treatment time, we recommend using the AcceleDent Aura system. Do this at home for 20 minutes each night. What is Invisalign, schedule an appointment today and find out.
- Which tip will you try first???
- Either way, let us know by leaving a comment below right now and continue the conversation.
13046 Falcon Drive
Baxter
MN 56425
Phone: 218-829-1630
What is Invisalign and How Does It Work? (QUICK FACT LIST)

Dr. Michael McDermott earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in both Chemistry and Biology from St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. He followed his undergraduate degrees with a doctorate in dental surgery at the University of Minnesota, where he graduated with highest distinction.
Dr. Mike then furthered his dental education by earning a masters and certificate in Orthodontics at the University of St. Louis in Missouri.