If you’ve been wondering “What does Invisalign do?” you’re not alone.
Invisalign is one of the most popular orthodontic treatments today, offering a nearly invisible way to straighten teeth without the wires and brackets of traditional braces. This blog explores how Invisalign works, its benefits, real-life success stories, and answers to the most common questions patients ask before starting treatment.
Key Takeaways
- Invisalign uses custom-made clear aligners to gradually move teeth into their ideal position.
- It’s effective for common issues like crowding, spacing, overbite, underbite, and crossbite.
- The aligners are removable, making eating, brushing, and flossing easier compared to braces.
- Patients typically see results in 12–18 months, depending on their case.
- With proper care, Invisalign can provide long-lasting results without the discomfort of metal braces.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign works by using a series of clear, BPA-free plastic aligners designed specifically for your teeth. Each set of aligners is slightly different, gently shifting your teeth over time until they reach the desired alignment.
Here’s the process in simple steps:
- Consultation – Your dentist or orthodontist evaluates your teeth and discusses your goals.
- Digital Scan & Plan – Advanced 3D imaging maps out your treatment plan.
- Custom Aligners – Aligners are made to fit snugly and worn for about 20–22 hours daily.
- Progress Checkups – Every 1–2 weeks, you switch to a new set of aligners.
- Retention – After treatment, retainers help maintain your new smile.
💡 Example: A patient with crowded lower teeth might need 14 sets of aligners over 7 months. Each aligner moves the teeth about 0.25 mm closer to their ideal position.
Benefits of Invisalign Compared to Braces
When people ask “What does Invisalign do?” they often want to know if it’s better than traditional braces. While both straighten teeth, Invisalign offers several unique benefits:
- Discreet – Clear and nearly invisible.
- Comfortable – Smooth aligners reduce mouth irritation.
- Convenient – Removable for meals and oral hygiene.
- Predictable – Digital treatment plans show expected results before starting.
- Lifestyle Friendly – No dietary restrictions compared to braces.
Common Dental Issues Invisalign Can Fix
Invisalign is effective for many orthodontic issues, including:
- Crowded Teeth – When there’s not enough space for teeth to align properly.
- Gapped Teeth – Spaces between teeth due to bone growth or missing teeth.
- Overbite/Underbite – Misalignment of top and bottom teeth.
- Crossbite – When some upper teeth sit inside lower teeth.
👉 Example: According to the American Association of Orthodontists, about 4.5 million Americans wear braces or aligners at any given time. Invisalign is often recommended for mild to moderate cases but can also treat complex issues with advanced planning.
Can I Eat and Drink With Invisalign On?
No, you shouldn’t eat or drink (except water) while wearing Invisalign. Eating with aligners can stain, damage, or warp the plastic. Always remove them before meals and snacks.
Tips for patients:
- Drink only water while wearing aligners.
- Brush before reinserting aligners to prevent staining.
- Carry a travel case to keep aligners safe during meals.
Why Is Invisalign So Hard to Get Off?
Some patients notice their aligners feel snug and tricky to remove, especially in the first few days. That’s actually a good sign—it means the aligners are working to shift your teeth.
To make removal easier:
- Start from the back molars and work forward.
- Use an aligner removal tool if needed.
- Gently wiggle instead of pulling straight down.
What’s the Longest You Can Wear Invisalign?
Most patients wear Invisalign for 12–18 months, but treatment can vary from 6 months for simple cases to 24+ months for complex ones. The length depends on:
- The severity of misalignment.
- How consistently you wear aligners (20–22 hours per day).
- Your body’s natural tooth movement.
Do Teeth Shift Back After Invisalign?
Yes, teeth can shift back if retainers are not worn as recommended. After treatment, your dentist provides retainers to maintain your new alignment.
- Wear retainers full-time for the first few months.
- Transition to nighttime-only wear after approval.
- Replace retainers periodically, as they can wear out.
Without retainers, there’s a high risk of relapse, undoing months of progress.
At What Age Does Invisalign Stop Working?
There’s no strict age limit for Invisalign. While many patients are teens or young adults, older adults (even in their 60s or 70s) can benefit. The key factor is healthy gums and jawbone structure.
Conclusion
So, what does Invisalign do? It gives you a straighter, healthier, and more confident smile without the hassle of braces. By using custom, removable aligners, Invisalign discreetly shifts teeth into place while fitting seamlessly into your daily routine.
At Alta Loma Dental Care in Rancho Cucamonga, we’ve seen how Invisalign transforms not just smiles, but lives. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or enjoying retirement, Invisalign could be your path to a confident smile.
Ready to explore Invisalign? Schedule a consultation with Alta Loma Dental Care today.
Share your thoughts below: Would you prefer Invisalign or traditional braces? What’s the biggest barrier keeping you from starting treatment?
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Invisalign do compared to braces?
It straightens teeth like braces but with clear, removable aligners that are more comfortable and discreet.
Does Invisalign hurt?
You may feel mild pressure when switching to new aligners, but discomfort usually fades in a few days.
Is Invisalign more expensive than braces?
Costs are often similar, though Invisalign may be slightly higher depending on the case. Insurance often covers part of the cost.
Where can I get Invisalign in Rancho Cucamonga?
Alta Loma Dental Care at 7283 Carnelian St, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91701 offers expert Invisalign treatment. Call 📞 (909) 987-6268.