SERVING PITTSBURGH, ALLISON PARK, AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS OF PENNSYLVANIA
Invisalign is an effective and increasingly popular means for correcting a variety of bite conditions and teeth alignment issues.
Pittsburgh cosmetic dentists and Invisalign providers Dr. Joe and Dr. Charles Frye are proud to offer teen and adult patients this alternative to traditional metal braces. Following are some commonly asked questions about Invisalign treatment.
What dental problems can be treated with Invisalign?
Invisalign can be used in the correction of spaced teeth and crowded teeth, as well as bite conditions including crossbite, overbite and underbite.
How does Invisalign work?
The Invisalign system employs a series of clear, custom-made plastic aligners to progressively shift your teeth into the desired position. Each set of aligners makes slight adjustments to your teeth and is changed approximately every two weeks.
Is the plastic used in Invisalign aligners safe?
Yes. Invisalign aligners are composed of dental-grade polyurethane resin and have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after extensive clinical testing. The aligners do not contain Bisphenol-A (BPA) or phthalate, two agents often used in plastics and that have been associated with health risks.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
The duration of your Invisalign treatment will depend on the extent of your condition. For many patients, Invisalign achieves the intended results after about 12 months of daily use of 20 to 22 hours per day.
Does Invisalign hurt?
While some patients experience minor, short-term discomfort when swapping in a new set of aligners, Invisalign aligns your teeth without the pain typically associated with standard metal braces and their regular tightening sessions.
How often do I have to visit the dentist during Invisalign treatment?
Unlike metal braces, which require regular appointments for tightening and adjustments, Invisalign treatment generally requires office visits only every four to six weeks. These appointments are primarily geared toward monitoring your progress.
Does Invisalign come with food and drink restrictions?
No. Because Invisalign aligners are removable, you can continue to enjoy your favorite foods and beverages during treatment. It is, however, important to maintain good dental hygiene, including brushing your teeth after every meal and before replacing your aligners.
Are Invisalign aligners hard to keep clean?
No. Your aligners can be removed for easy care with the Invisalign Cleaning Kit or by brushing them and rinsing them in warm water.
Will I need a retainer after Invisalign treatment?
Some patients do require a post-treatment retainer or positioner. After you complete your custom Invisalign treatment plan, Dr. Frye will assess the status of your bite and determine whether such a device will be necessary.
If you live in the Pittsburgh or Allison Park, Pennsylvania, areas and would like to learn more about Invisalign, please contact Dentonics to schedule your personal clear braces consultation with Dr. Joe or Dr. Charles Frye. We would love to meet you, show you our dental home and welcome you to our extended dental family.
