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My Invisalign Journey (Trays 1-8) and Progression Photos

May 20, 2016 Leave a Comment

Check Out My Other Invisalign Posts:

Follow my Invisalign Pinterest Board (has ALL my Invisalign posts pinned to it!)

Post 1: My Invisalign Journey, Trays 1-8

Post 2: My Invisalign Journey, Trays 9-15

Post 3: My Invisalign Journey, Revision Trays 1-18

Post 4: My Invisalign Journey, Revision Trays 1-24

Post 5: My Invisalign Journey, Finished & My Honest Thoughts

A Little History I started to talk to a new dentist about Invisalign and veneers for my bonded teeth last October. I wanted to get veneers on my two front teeth, because I chipped them badly when I was a child when I fell off my bike. I’ve had the bonding touched up a couple of times since then, but it keeps staining. The dentist suggested starting Invisalign to straighten my teeth, because my two front teeth were coming out and the two on the side were pushing in. My bottom teeth were also not straight with one pushing out. I had braces when I was in 5th grade, but I was never good about wearing my retainer. It made sense to correct the orthodontics of my teeth before spending money on veneers. He also suggested having veneers put on my four front teeth, even though the teeth on each side of my front ones are fine. His reasoning behind this is to give me a more perfect smile. I did do some research on this and it is common practice to have the four front teeth done with veneers. You’ll have a more finished look and it doesn’t cost a lot more. Also, the bonding has made my two front teeth wider than they should be and he is going to correct that by filing the teeth down throughout the Invisalign process. I am also going to do whitening on my teeth after I finish the Invisalign and before getting the veneers. That way the dentist can match the veneers to the color of my teeth after the whitening. I am REALLY excited about the end result, this is something I have wanted for myself for a long time. Why Invisalign? I didn’t really do a lot of research on Invisalign versus metal braces. I had the metal braces when I was a child and I never enjoyed them. I liked the idea that Invisalign is clear and that I wouldn’t look like a teenager in my thirties with braces! My main reason for going with Invisalign was because my dentist offered it and he can correct my teeth in a way that when it comes time to do my veneers, it will all look seamless.

First Few Days The first few days are the ABSOLUTE worst. It gets better! I promise! The trays are hard to get in and out until you get used to them. It took me a couple of days to get comfortable taking them out and putting them in. I also damaged my nails trying to remove them, but then I read online to take a little piece of paper towel or tissue and it helps give you more grip. Not only does this help me remove the trays, but it also saves my nails!  My mouth was also really sore in certain spots during the first week. The edges of the trays aren’t perfectly smooth on the tops and bottoms. I know this sounds weird and you would think they’d be smooth, but they aren’t. With a foreign object in my mouth, my tongue just wanted to rub up and down on these edges. I had to train my tongue to behave itself! Also, some of the spots where the ‘buttons’ are would make the inside of my mouth sore. This really bothered me and I was even thinking about filing my trays with a nail file to smooth them down (read this online), but after a week the trays weren’t bothering me anymore! I didn’t have this problem with the second, third or any other trays… I think it just takes time for your mouth to get used to the trays. So, try to just take it easy that first week. Trust me, you won’t regret this! The first 3-4 days of every new tray is the absolute worse. I read online that some people put the trays in the night before and take Tylenol before bed. I think the first tray is HORRIBLE, but the other ones do hurt more the first few days… but, it is tolerable pain. So, I just put my new trays in that morning and I do ok. I do feel like I am teething constantly, I think it is that I just want to bite down and chew on something with these trays in my mouth. After the first 3-4 days, you’ll notice your tray will get a little looser and it’ll be easier to take out and put back in. It does get better! That is… until you start another tray! 😉

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My Invisalign Journey – Was it Worth it?! & 10 Myths

If you’re reading this post, chances are you’ve become borderline obsessed with fixing your crooked teeth. Maybe you’re down a rabbit hole of blog posts, wish-washing back and forth on whether it’s worth the price tag and the commitment. I get it. Seriously. Before I signed my life away to the clear trays, I painstakingly researched the pros and cons, and while a lot of what I read scared the shit out of me, I ultimately made the decision to make the investment, and I’ve never been happier I did! But, that’s not why I’m writing this blog post. I’m writing to debunk some myths I read before I started this year-long smile-perfecting journey.

MYTHS ABOUT INVISALIGN

• It’s the same exact thing as Smile Direct Club or Clear Correct.   I have no doubt that Smile Direct Club works for a lot of people – especially those with easily fixable teeth. But for me – someone who had the gangliest smile in the entire world before braces – I was a bit apprehensive and Invisalign is established and cutting edge and I was happy to pay a bit more for peace of mind. I also knew I wanted no visible buttons, and I wasn’t certain that Smile Direct Club could fix my teeth without them.
• Any dentist that offers Invisalign can be trusted. In the same vein, I only wanted to see a well-vetted dentist or orthodontist who specialized in Invisalign. Because of my God-given gangly childhood smile, I knew that my teeth roots were whack. I needed a professional who would closely monitor each tray movement to ensure that my teeth didn’t get loose, or worse, that the trays caused irreversible damage. I was adamant about finding someone who could help me permanently fix my crooked smile safely and effectively.
• You will lose weight. WTF .  This one was especially disappointing.  I was so certain that,  like  I read in every single blog on aligners I could find, that I too would drop lbs!  But it was the opposite!! The myth is that since it’s a hassel to brush and floss after you eat, it will keep you from snacking between meals. But for me? I pigged out every time I took my trays out because it was such a pain in the ass to clean them and put them back in for only a latte or some hummus and crackers.
• It hurts.  The first week, yes, I HATED it. LOATHED. I think I cried that I had made a mistake. But then every other single tray from there I barely noticed. Even when it was time to switch them, it wasn’t ever as painful as that very first week of trays. And definitely not unbearable pain in the least.
• You get so used to it, you forget they’re there! Yes – they stop hurting – but who the hell would get used to brushing their teeth 6 times a day? Or pulling a tray out and having spit come with it? Or that you can’t leisurely enjoy your latte for an hour, or your smoothie, or your wine. (Confession – I still drank iced tea and white wine with my retainers in sometimes). Kissing with retainers in is so lame, as is carrying around the case and toothbrush in your clutch.
• You need to wear it 22/7. I mean, you should. You definitely, without a doubt, should. But did I? Nope. Somedays, like when I was acting on set or at a wedding, I barely wore it at all and my teeth still changed dramatically.
• It’s unnoticeable. HAH, what a ridiculous marketing tactic. Anyone who isn’t blind can tell you have your trays in. And if you don’t have your trays in, they’ll still notice your teeth buttons!
• You’ll have a lisp. I sure did, but it only lasted a week at most. Once my mouth got used to the trays, the lisp went away.
• The time (and price) you are initially quoted is accurate. You very well might want refinement and additional trays. That takes time and $. I added 10 weeks and $200 onto my bill to get the smile I wanted.
• Your smile will be celebrity-like perfect . My front teeth are still way longer than the next row of teeth, they jut out more than I’d like (and yes, invisalign did help to correct this – but it’s just the way my mouth is!) and for some reason, the tips of my teeth are a greyish translucent color. Mayyyybe if you were born with the most anatomically correct jaw, you had abnormally healthy gums and stronger than strong teeth.. then perhaps, Invisalign would give you a Crest White strip commercial perfect smile. But the reality is, everyone’s mouth is pretty unique and you’re most likely not going to get the celebrity smile look from invisalign . Why you ask ? Because celebrities don’t bother with alignment trays – they just drop the money on veneers.

I went to Dr. Assudani at Sunset Plaza Dental because I was looking for an aligner specialist. I wanted a professional who I could trust 110% with my precious smile. I wanted a relationship where I could pester the office with questions all day long, and pop in without much notice to have my smile checked out. I had read a lot of horror stories about dentist and competitor companies hastily filing teeth or even extracting to make room…. and that scared the shit out of me. I was also very adamant about not having buttons placed on visible teeth and Sunset Plaza Dental was able to deliver on that request. And they have free parking… what else can you ask for in LA? All in all, I’m so happy I went through with Invisalign and finally fixed my bottom row of teeth that were really bothering me – especially when I watched myself on tv!

I LOVE your longer front teeth – like doll’s teeth. Thanks for sharing your journey.

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How to Speed up Your Invisalign Treatment: Fast Track Your Journey

If you’re eager to flaunt your newfound smile in less time, this article will guide you through actionable tips and insightful advice that will aid you in achieving your desired outcomes promptly. Keeping in mind that everyone’s oral health journey is unique, our focus here will be to provide practical strategies to help maximise your Invisalign results without compromising safety or quality.

By Dr. Michael Wu

So, let’s dive into the world of Invisalign treatments and explore the ways to accelerate your Invisalign process. Get ready to fast-track your journey to a healthier, brighter smile!

Summary of the Content

• Invisalign uses clear aligners for gradual teeth straightening, offering an alternative to traditional braces.
• Invisalign treatment typically spans 12-18 months, but the duration can vary based on the severity of the orthodontic case and overall oral health.
• Individuals often seek ways to speed up Invisalign treatment due to lifestyle pace or upcoming special events.
• Consistent wear of aligners, regular cleaning, and timely dental check-ups are key strategies to accelerate Invisalign treatment.
• Frequent aligner removal, poor oral hygiene, and missed dental appointments can slow down treatment.
• Technological advancements like Invisalign’s SmartTrack material and the AcceleDent Aura device can potentially speed up treatment.
• While accelerating Invisalign treatment can be desirable, it’s crucial to maintain a balance between speed and safety and to consider personal dental health conditions.

Understanding Invisalign: The Basic

Before we dive into how to speed up your Invisalign treatment and maximise your Invisalign results, let’s break down the basics. Understanding the nature of this treatment can provide a solid foundation for the tips and strategies we’ll explore later.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an innovative dental alignment system that uses clear, virtually invisible aligners to gradually shift your teeth into a more desirable, straight position. It’s a contemporary alternative to traditional braces, offering flexibility and convenience while delivering a straighter smile.

How does Invisalign work?

To accelerate your Invisalign process , it helps to understand the mechanics behind this groundbreaking treatment. Here is a brief overview of the treatment process:

• Consultation and planning: You start your journey with a dental consultation, where your dentist evaluates your teeth and devises a custom treatment plan tailored to your needs. This plan involves a 3D mapping of teeth and the expected tooth movement over the course of the treatment.
• Custom aligners: A series of custom-made, clear aligners are created based on your unique dental structure. These aligners are designed to exert a controlled amount of force on your teeth, initiating the movement of your teeth in the designated direction.
• Changing aligners: Every few weeks (usually every one or two), you will replace your aligners for a new set in the series. Each set is slightly different from the last, gradually facilitating the desired tooth movement.
• Regular check-ups: Throughout your treatment, you’ll have regular check-ins with your dentist to monitor your treatment progress and make adjustments as necessary.
• Maintenance: Once your teeth have reached their intended position, a retainer is used to maintain your new, straighter smile.

The General Timeline for Invisalign Treatment

If you’re on the journey to a straighter smile with Invisalign , understanding the general timeline can help manage your expectations and prepare you for the road ahead. By grasping what influences Invisalign treatment duration and knowing the average time it takes, you can better plot your course and apply tips to quicken your Invisalign treatment effectively.

Factors influencing Invisalign treatment duration

Every mouth is unique, just like every individual’s Invisalign journey. Here are some of the key factors that can affect your treatment duration:

• The severity of misalignment: The more extensive the misalignment or the more crooked the teeth , the longer it may take for the treatment to bring about desired results.
• Wearing time: Invisalign aligners should ideally be worn for about 22 hours per day, being removed only for eating, drinking and oral hygiene. Wearing the aligners for less than the recommended wearing time may slow down the movement of teeth and prolong the treatment.
• Adjustment appointments: Regular and timely visits to the dentist for adjustment appointments can help keep your treatment on track.
• Oral health: Conditions like tooth decay or gum disease can delay the treatment. Maintaining a healthy diet and good oral hygiene habits support overall oral health and may positively influence your treatment timeline.

The average duration of Invisalign treatment

The Invisalign treatment is customised to each person’s unique dental needs, so treatment times can vary. However, on average, most people complete their treatment within 12 to 18 months. Remember that each patient’s situation is unique, and individual results may vary based on the factors we just discussed.

Why Would You Want to Speed Up Your Invisalign Treatment?

While the journey towards a healthier, straighter smile is one to be enjoyed, many individuals are keen to know how to speed up Invisalign treatment. But why the rush? Let’s explore the motivation behind the desire for faster results and the role convenience plays in determining the duration of your treatment.

The desire for quick results

In this fast-paced world, who wouldn’t fancy quick results, right? The same goes for dental treatments. When choosing Invisalign, the anticipation of flaunting a straighter smile can make each day of treatment feel much longer. Especially for events like weddings, graduation ceremonies, or professional photoshoots, you might want your teeth in tip-top shape as quickly as possible.

Therefore, knowing tips for a quicker Invisalign treatment can be of great value, potentially helping you maximise your Invisalign results within your desired timeframe.

The role of convenience in treatment duration

Invisalign’s appeal lies greatly in its convenience. Removing your aligners for a meal, a meeting, or a brief respite is a significant advantage over traditional braces. However, it’s this very convenience that can be a double-edged sword.

Remember, the aligners must be worn for about 22 hours daily to accelerate the Invisalign process effectively. Striking a balance between making the most of Invisalign’s flexibility and wearing your aligners for the recommended time can be crucial in speeding up your treatment.

Tips to Maximise Invisalign Results

To make the most out of your journey towards a straighter, healthier smile, there are several ways to accelerate your Invisalign process.

Importance of consistent wear

Consistent wear is the cornerstone of Invisalign’s success. Aim to wear your aligners for about 22 hours a day. Consistency allows continuous pressure on your teeth, promoting movement and potentially accelerating your treatment.

Regular cleaning and maintenance of Invisalign trays

Don’t underestimate the power of clean aligners. Regular cleaning prevents bacteria build-up that could hinder tooth movement. A sparkling aligner means no discolouration and better breath, contributing to an improved smile.

Timely dental check-ups

Regular dentist appointments are vital for monitoring progress and making adjustments. Keeping your scheduled appointments helps your dentist ensure that your teeth are moving as planned and potential issues are caught early. This vigilance can maximise your Invisalign results.

Remember, these quicker Invisalign treatment tips are designed to guide you towards an accelerated timeline. Committing to each step can greatly influence your journey to a straighter smile.

Habits to Avoid for Quicker Invisalign Treatment

In the quest for ways to accelerate the Invisalign process, it’s about what you should do and what habits you might need to let go of.

Foods and drinks to avoid

When wearing Invisalign aligners, it’s essential to be mindful of certain foods and drinks. As the aligners are made of clear plastic, they can discolour or stain if you consume foods or drinks that are heavily pigmented. Removing your aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water is a good practice.

Moreover, sugary and acidic foods or beverages could lead to tooth decay or gum disease , which may disrupt your treatment process. Therefore, maintaining a healthy diet can contribute to the overall health of your teeth and potentially speed up your Invisalign treatment.

Habits that could slow down Invisalign treatment

In addition to dietary considerations, certain habits could slow down your Invisalign treatment. For example, removing your aligners frequently or not wearing them for the recommended 22 hours a day could significantly affect your treatment time. Not taking care of your dental trays or skipping dentist appointments can disrupt the treatment plan and prolong your journey to a straighter smile.

The Role of Advanced Technologies in Effective Invisalign Treatment Acceleration

As we continue to explore tips for quicker Invisalign treatment, it’s impossible to overlook the incredible advancements in dental technology that contribute to this cause. Cutting-edge technology enhances the experience and can play a key role in potentially speeding up the Invisalign process.

Invisalign’s proprietary SmartTrack material

Invisalign has revolutionised the approach to teeth straightening with its SmartTrack material. This proprietary technology uses a highly elastic, thermoplastic material that applies a constant yet gentle force on the teeth, facilitating effective movement.

Moreover, the unique flexibility of the SmartTrack aligners provides a snug fit for all types of teeth, leading to better control over the alignment process and potentially faster results.

The use of AcceleDent Aura to speed up Invisalign treatment

Another noteworthy technological advancement is the AcceleDent Aura, designed to accelerate orthodontic treatment. The device stimulates bone remodelling by producing gentle micro pulses, thus accelerating tooth movement.

When used in conjunction with Invisalign, it could help reduce treatment time. However, the effectiveness of such devices varies from person to person, and it’s crucial to discuss this option with your dentist.

Understanding Risks of Rushing Invisalign Treatment

As we navigate the journey towards a straighter smile, there’s often a temptation to fast-track the process. While accelerating the Invisalign process can be advantageous, it’s equally crucial to understand the potential risks associated with rushing treatment.

The balance between quick and safe results

It’s all about striking a balance. The desire to speed up your Invisalign treatment must be tempered with the understanding that teeth alignment is a process that requires time and patience. It’s all about maintaining an equilibrium between speed and safety to protect the integrity of your teeth and gums.

When it’s not advisable to speed up Invisalign treatment

There are specific instances where accelerating Invisalign treatment may not be advisable. These could include complex dental conditions, inadequate oral hygiene care, or a history of gum disease. Each person’s treatment plan should be customised based on their unique dental health needs. Thus, it’s always recommended to seek professional advice before considering ways to shorten your treatment time.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to accelerating your Invisalign journey, balance is key. Whilst we all desire to see results swiftly, remember, it’s not a race. Every smile is unique, and so is every Invisalign treatment. The tips and strategies provided here are intended to guide and support your journey. Still, your individual circumstances, commitment, and oral health condition will always influence the outcome.

Understanding how to speed up Invisalign treatment can potentially provide you with tools to expedite your journey. Still, it’s important to remember that the overarching goal is not merely speed but a successful, lasting transition towards a healthier, straighter smile. In essence, achieving a balance between speed and safety is paramount to maximise your Invisalign results.

At West Perth Dental , we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing personalised care, guidance, and expertise. Let us assist you as you navigate your Invisalign journey towards a brighter, more confident smile.

• Dr. Michael Wu

Dr. Michael Wu holds a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Western Australia. He never stops learning and regularly attends post-graduate education seminars, courses, and conferences to ensure he is providing his patients with excellent dental care.

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18 Things They Don't Tell You About Having Invisalign, From Someone Who's Had It For Two Years

Rubber bands. Rubber bands everywhere.

BuzzFeed Staff

Hey there. I'm Shelby, and I've had Invisalign for about two years.

I made the decision to get Invisalign as an adult because although my teeth have always looked pretty OK cosmetically, I've had continuous issues with my bite and jaw. Plus, I noticed my teeth started to shift rapidly once I entered my twenties. So, I decided to bite the bullet (pun intended!) and get some adult orthodonture.

Invisalign is an orthodontic system that uses plastic aligner trays to straighten and correct your teeth, much like traditional braces. The aligners are custom-made and fit directly onto your teeth, shifting them into position. They're kind of like retainers, except you wear them all day as opposed to just at night.

The cost of Invisalign can vary depending on where you live, your insurance, etc.

I was pretty excited when I found out I qualified for Invisalign as opposed to traditional braces. Mostly because the aligners are clear, and Invisalign markets itself as providing a lot more freedom than braces (more on that later).

But there have been a ton of things I didn't expect throughout my Invisalign journey that I think are worth sharing, especially for anyone considering treatment as an adult. So without further ado, here's everything I've learned from wearing Invisalign for two years straight.

1. It's going to HURT sometimes.

I'll never forget the way my mouth felt wearing my first-ever set of Invisalign trays. After driving home from the appointment thinking, "this is great!", I soon found myself curled up on the couch, my teeth so sore I didn't even know what to do with myself. Putting the trays in was a nightmare. Taking them out was a nightmare. CHEWING was a nightmare!! I was worried it would last forever.

Luckily, it didn't. But soreness is still a very normal part of my Invisalign routine. Invisalign works when the plastic aligner trays you wear start to shift your teeth into proper position. And, well, having your teeth shift around inside your mouth...tends to hurt. Whenever I put in a new tray, I can count on it being tight and my teeth feeling sore for the first two or three days. The level of soreness depends on how much shifting happens. More often than not, some ibuprofen does the trick. But other times, it's pretty painful.

2. And you're going to get canker sores. Sorry 'bout it.

Another thing I was NOT prepared for when I started Invisalign was the canker sores. Since the trays are basically foreign objects, it takes time for the delicate parts inside your mouth to get used to the sharp edges, not to mention any rods you might have had inserted to anchor your rubber bands.

As a result, I got some HUGE canker sores in the beginning that really enhanced how miserable my first few weeks were. These also went away over time, once my mouth got used to the trays and built up some scar tissue. However, I still get canker sores if a part of my treatment changes or if I'm just plain irresponsible, like the time I went to a music festival with my Invisalign and basically drank no water, causing my mouth to get so dry I got FOUR canker that were so huge I could barely speak or eat for two weeks. But that was more of a ME problem than anything else.

3. Your speech might be a little funky at first.

Again, Invisalign trays are a foreign object in your mouth, and talking is a big part of using your mouth, sooooo you can imagine there might be an issue here. My first month or so with Invisalign, I had a major lisp because speaking with the trays felt SUPER foreign and weird. You kinda have to retrain yourself how to move your mouth. Although I feel like I've tackled this obstacle quite well, I still catch myself with a slight lisp on certain words with very powerful "ssss" sounds.

4. You'll essentially be wearing them 24/7.

The recommended wear for Invisalign is 22 hours per day. That means if you aren't eating or drinking, you should have 'em in your mouth. This was DEFINITELY difficult for me to get used to for a number of reasons (i.e. the fact that I like to be eating all the time ), and I stressed a lot in the beginning about having them out for too long. Luckily, my orthodontists let me know that if I don't wear them as much as I should one day, I can wear them for an extra day and it should be fine.

BUT I personally prefer to wear my Invisalign as much as possible. Why? Because not wearing your Invisalign means longer treatment and more trays, and I've had mine for LONG ENOUGH.

5. Your Invisalign case quickly becomes your lifeline.

If you don't have your Invisalign case on you when the desire to eat or drink strikes, then you're pretty much S.O.L. Sure, you can wrap them in a napkin or something like that, but do you REALLY want those expensive little trays exposed to the elements? I sure don't! Plus they look kinda gross just sitting there covered in slobber.

I can't tell you how many times I've seen something I wanted to eat, realized I didn't have my case with me, gone looking for it, finally found it, walked back, and FINALLY taken out my Invisalign when I could've been happily eating that entire time. As a result, I've learned to take my Invisalign case everywhere with me, and I get pretty anxious if it's not around. One of the top three phrases I say on any given day is: "Where's my Invisalign case?"

6. So does this little chewy guy.

"Chewies" are these little tubes of plastic you chew on to help set your Invisalign. You bite down on them and the sheer force of your bite is meant to help the trays fit better and properly hug your teeth. My orthodontists have given me differing feedback on how often I should use them. One said they're only necessary the first few days after putting in a new set of trays, while the other told me to use them every day, every time I put the trays back in my mouth. I've taken to doing the latter because I think it gives me better results, but it's still pretty annoying. I've had a handful of close calls where I nearly choked on a chewy and had to spit it out in a panic.

7. You can basically kiss random snacking goodbye.

By far the largest (and most devastating) adjustment I've had to make having Invisalign is that I can't just "take a bite" of anything anymore. Before, if someone asked if I wanted some of their doughnut or I randomly felt like crunching on some chips, I could do that!!! Which is so nuts to me because if someone asks me if I want a bite of something now , I need to have a whole conversation with myself where I ask if that Hot Cheeto is worth me taking out my rubber bands, taking out my trays, taking a bite, swishing my mouth with water, possibly brushing my teeth, rinsing out my trays, putting them back in, and snapping my rubber bands back on.

And that's why the phrase I say even more than, "Where's my Invisalign case?" is: "I can't have any, I'm wearing my Invisalign."

8. Ditto on drinking (kinda).

It's highly recommended that you don't drink anything other than water when you have your Invisalign in, especially coffee, beer, and sugary beverages like juice and wine. This is because the darker liquids can SUPER stain your teeth, and the sugary stuff can sit in your trays and completely rot your teeth.

The one caveat my orthos allow is that if I must drink these things while wearing my Invisalign, I can drink them through a straw. HOWEVER, it's also recommended that I swish my teeth with water immediately after. I've tried carrying a straw around with me, but most of the time I'll either take out my trays or just be bad and drink with them in, which looks a lot like this: *takes sip* *swishes with water* *takes sip* *swishes with water* *takes sip* *chugs water* and so on and so forth.

9. You can't exactly eat ANYTHING you want.

One of Invisalign's main selling points is that it offers a lot more freedom that braces in terms of what you can eat. You can have caramel! You can have apples! All you have to do is take out your trays! Rejoice!!!

I'm not here to tell you that's false, but I'm not here to tell you that it's true, either. In my two years wearing these little plastic trays (or "Invizzies," as I sometimes like to call them), there are definitely foods I've learned to avoid. For example, I don't really eat super chewy foods like caramel, gummy candies, energy bars, etc. Why? Because those foods get hella stuck in your teeth and if you don't get them out before putting your trays back in, they'll damage your teeth. So I've all but given up on soft, chewy foods except on special occasions. So long, RX Bars!!

10. Events with lots of eating/drinking become a real judgment call.

As I mentioned before, you're expected to wear your Invisalign all day every day. You also need to take them out whenever you're eating or drinking. SO, you can imagine the moral quandary that happens whenever I'm doing something where eating and/or drinking is the main focus. I've had to navigate many food festivals and nights out where my internal monologue looked a lot like this:

"OK, so should I just not wear my trays? No, that'll mess with my treatment!!"

"But do I really want to keep on taking them out and putting them back in every five seconds?? Ugh, that's such a hassle."

"Did I remember my straw? Nope."

"Alright, if I drink all four cocktails with my trays in but swish with water after EVERY sip, I should be fine, right?"

Sometimes I take my Invisalign out for a few hours while I'm eating and drinking and hope my teeth don't shift too much. Other times I leave them in and take my chances with the sugary/alcoholic beverages. But neither decision is ever ideal. It's a lose-lose.

11. You need to clean your teeth and trays before putting the trays back in.

Not cleaning your teeth before putting your Invisalign trays back in your mouth means food will get stuck in your teeth and trays, leading to possible cavities and gum decay. In a perfect world, I'd be brushing my teeth after each meal and snack, but I tried doing that in the beginning and it was a real pain. I had to carry a toothbrush with me at all times, find a sink, etc. etc. So now, I simply swish with water. My orthodontists said this is fine, although brushing is always the better choice.

It's also recommended that you clean out your trays, especially if you see any food particles stuck in them. I'm not as diligent about this as I should be, but I always make sure to give them a rinse if I see anything super suspect.

12. If you don't floss already, you're gonna want to start.

Part of the reason tooth decay happens when food gets stuck in the Invizzies is that there's no longer any saliva flow between your teeth. The trays block that from happening, which means the food just sits there, and your gums get weaker and weaker. It took an insane number of cavities and some gingivitis (which was luckily caught early-on and removed) for me to realize if I wanted to keep my gums and teeth in semi-decent shape, I'd have to start flossing. Now I do it pretty much every night without fail. It's actually really satisfying!

13. There's no guarantee you won't have brackets (or as they're called in Invisalign land, "buttons") on your teeth.

One of the things that really sold me on Invisalign was the fact that the aligners are clear, which means they tend to be less noticeable than braces. Something I DIDN'T realize was that depending on your treatment plan, you'll have plastic buttons put on some of your teeth to further help the shifting process.

Normally patients only get one or two, but because I was a particularly special case, I had buttons put on pretty much ALL of my teeth, and didn't have them removed for about a year and a half. And let me tell ya, they sure looked a lot like brackets. People would always tell me they didn't notice them, but as you can see from the picture above, they were clearly lying.

14. And you might also have rubber bands.

Since my treatment involves correcting my bite quite a bit, I've worn orthodontic rubber bands for the majority my time with Invisalign. This isn't a guarantee for all patients, but my relationship with rubber hands has really run the gamut. Sometimes I've had to wear two rubber bands, sometimes just one. There was a brief period where I only had to wear rubber bands at night (so, so nice). Right now I wear four, two on each side. The bands can be attached via rivets carved into your Invisalign trays, or metal rods attached directly to your teeth. I currently have rods.

Having the rubber bands adds an additional step (or in my case, four) to the process of taking out the Invisalign and putting it back in. This makes me EVEN MORE hesitant to take out my Invisalign unless I absolutely have to.

15. And those rubber bands. will. be. EVERYWHERE!!!

Orthodontic rubber bands have completely overtaken my life. They're so tiny that they can easily just snap right out of my fingers and go hurling into the abyss. I find them everywhere: on the floor, in my bed, in my pockets, at my friends' houses, in my hair, the list goes on. The other day, I found a lone rubber band just chillin' on the trunk of my car. What was it doing there? Beats me!!! All I know is that thanks to me there's probably hundreds of little rubber bands out there, lost and afraid.

16. And chances are, the rubber bands will also snap.

I've had rubber bands of varying sizes, and right now I'm wearing the thickest rubber bands available because my orthodontists are hellbent on getting my back teeth to finally touch. And these very thick, incredibly tight rubber bands like to snap off in my mouth. A LOT.

My favorite is when they constantly snap off while I'm just trying to put them back in my mouth. I'll get all four of them in and then a second later one will snap off, and I have to start the process all over again. There have been times where I've spent five minutes or more trying to secure my rubber bands, over and over and over and over again because ONE in the back just couldn't anchor itself. In these moments, it takes all the strength I have not to fly into a rage, break my beloved Invizzies in half, and throw them straight into the garbage. It's honestly the bane of my existence.

17. You'll probably end up having Invisalign longer than you ever hoped or intended.

The first day of my Invisalign treatment, my orthodontist's office told me my projected timeline would be about six months, with the possibility of one six-month refinement that would bring me up to one year, max.

Well my friends, that was over TWO YEARS AGO and I gotta say, I've been strung along quite a few times. I'm coming up on finishing my FOURTH refinement and chances are I'm still going to need more. I've entered that super lovely period where every time I go in for a checkup, my orthodontists swear up and down that the next round of trays will be my final set. Come the end of those trays, I'm hit with the "ooooh, looks like we're gonna need to try one more time ." It's maddening. I've been going through it for over a year. I've given up on thinking each set of trays will be my last, but my frustration still mounts with every passing fakeout.

18. But in the end, they're still pretty worth it.

Despite all the (sometimes very) annoying aspects involved with my Invisalign treatment, I don't think I would've made a different decision had I known then what I know now.

Does having Invisalign present an inconvenience to me on an everyday basis? Yes. Am I absolutely aching to be done with it after all this time? You betcha. But has it also greatly improved my smile, bite, and alleviated some jaw pain? 100%. I think the pictures above speak for themselves.

I still don't know when I'll be finished with my Invisalign (hopefully soon??), but I do know that I don't plan on quitting. After all, I've made it this far. What's another two years, right?? 😬😭

Note: please consult with your dentist/orthodontist before deciding to pursue Invisalign or any other orthodontic treatment.

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REVOLUTIONIZING THE STANDARD OF CARE

6 Tips and Tricks for Surviving Your First Week with Invisalign

I absolutely love that moment when I introduce a new patient to their first set of clear aligners. After much anticipation and preparation, they are ready to begin the journey to their new smile.

As an orthodontist and former patient, my Invisalign tips and tricks are based on a simple philosophy: establish a consistent, healthy routine so you can enjoy Delicious Progress™ throughout treatment.  Here are six tips to get your journey started with healthy habits and a healthy mouth:

• Protect your tongue
• Treat your pain and discomfort
• Use Movemints when you reinsert your trays
• Keep track of your daily wear time
• Remove your aligners the safe, sanitary way
• Keep your trays clean (and clear)

Invisalign Tip #1: Protect Your Tongue

The plastic edges of your clear aligners mean that sores are common early in the journey and at the beginning of new tray cycles, but your mouth will toughen up. To accelerate this toughening, I recommend wax for Invisalign to cover sharp edges and rough spots. Try this technique: take a small pinch of wax, roll it into a shape between your fingers, then apply it to the hot spots. If you can't find relief from your Invisalign sharp edges or there's a particularly rough or jagged section on your retainers that wax can't cover, you may need to ask your Orthodontist to file them down for you.

Another good idea is to have a bottle of peroxide-based mouthwash in your medicine cabinet. It is specially formulated to heal minor oral irritations during orthodontic treatment, and provides teeth and gum pain relief with a refreshing, foamy effect that really hits the spot. Keep a bottle in your medicine cabinet, and you'll be glad you did!

Invisalign Tip #2: Treat your pain and discomfort

To be honest, Invisalign hurts , and many will experience pain in their teeth and jaws. Clear aligners work by forcing your teeth into their ideal position , so I recommend my patients practice chewing exercises a few times a day, and every time they reinsert their trays. Not only do these exercises seat your trays and help them "track" in accordance with your treatment plan, they can provide Invisalign pain relief .

The simple act of chewing produces a nice massage effect for your gums, stimulating nutrient-rich blood flow to your mouth. That blood flow acts as a natural pain reliever, and more importantly, chewing exercises help your trays fit tightly for maximum tooth movement.

You may have received  chewies from your Orthodontist, and they do aid in the seating process and I still give them to my patients for home use. But, they can get very dirty if they aren't cleaned regularly and are a bit awkward to use in public. So....

Invisalign Tip #3: Use Movemints When You're On The Go!

It’s not always ideal or convenient to do chewing exercises during the course of your busy day. When I first started treating patients, all I had to give them were the aforementioned Invisalign chewies or other homegrown solutions like suction tips or ball point pens. However, none of these items were particularly appealing (or sanitary) to recommend, and that just didn't sit well with me .

I drew on my experience as a patient to create an alternative to Invisalign chewies  that would freshen breath, fight Invisalign dry mouth , and discretely seat trays. After years of perfecting its shape, I’m pleased to share Movemints, the only Mint that Fits® your clear aligners, with patients all over the world!

I created Movemints to give my patients an alternative to chewie foam and encourage the gentle chewing exercises throughout the day. It doesn’t hurt that Movemints taste great and fight dry mouth, are sugar-free and sweetened with beneficial xylitol . Eat them all day and with your trays in!

Invisalign Tip #4: Keep Track of Your Daily Wear Time

Obviously it will be a little difficult adjusting to your new lifestyle with your invisible braces. You will be taking them out often, which is okay; this is why so many orthodontists recommend them for older teens and adults. But if patients aren't diligent about meeting the recommended wear time of 22 hours, it can cause problems and lead to Invisalign not tracking along with the treatment plan. 

Fortunately, there are several tools available to help you keep track of your daily wear time. We are big fans of TrayMinder , a free mobile app that tracks how long you’ve worn (or not worn) your aligners and reminds you when to change to a new set of trays.  

Another great way to stick to a consistent clear aligner routine is to have the right Invisalign accessories for your smile journey. Items like an extra Invisalign case to protect your trays, a Pultool aligner removal tool, retainer cleaner spray and travel toothbrush and floss are all items we think belong in your to-go bag.  If you really want to invest in your treatment, consider the  nCase , an innovative "smart" retainer case that tracks your wear time with an integrated smartphone app. It will alert you when you have your trays out for too long so you know exactly how to manage your breaks.

Invisalign Tip #5: Remove Your Clear Aligners Safely

Stay safe and sanitary when you remove your invisible braces with our favorite aligner removal tool, the Pultool.  Small enough to fit in your retainer case so you always have it handy, the purposeful design also makes it easy to use. 

While you can certainly fish your trays out with your fingers, they do get tighter as your treatment progresses. This means you might struggle to get your aligners out early in a tray cycle, which is where the “hook” of Pultool really helps. It pops aligners out in a breeze and saves you from inadvertent nail gashes if your hands slip while trying to pry them out, and is available in our Hands Free Journey Bundle.

Invisalign Tip #6: Keep Your Trays Clean (and Clear)

I know that my patients are going to cheat. Finishing the last two sips of a lukewarm coffee or enjoying a glass of (white) wine with your trays in isn’t the worst thing you can do. But don’t make it a habit, and be mindful of your schedule: cheating during the last few days (or hours) of an Invisalign tray cycle gives less time for stains to compound. It's also important to learn how to clean Invisalign the right way, so you don't warp or damage your trays.

When you notice your trays getting a little dingy and funky, use a pump or two of Smilesaver™ cleaning spray , a peroxide-free fast acting cleanser  that you don't have to rinse off your aligners . Just a pump or two in each tray will eliminate the germs and bacteria that contribute to Invisalign bad breath . 

Parting Advice: Create Your Routine and Stick To It!

As you embark on your smile journey, strive to establish a personal routine that includes good hygiene and habits that you can maintain. Incorporating these Invisalign tips into your lifestyle will help you enjoy a more comfortable, confident journey to your ideal smile.  

Starting your clear aligner treatment is an incredibly exciting time! Follow our blog for more  Invisalign tips and tricks  that will help you on the road to your ideal smile!

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28 comments.

Help! I downloaded the TrayMinder app, but before it will install, it has me set up the treatment details; at the end, it says I must de-select “optimize battery settings” to receive reminders, and it takes me to that screen on my Samsung Galaxy android. The app is not yet installed and doesn’t show up. So I get stuck at that screen. When I back out, it shows up as though I don’t have a treatment plan because it won’t save the one I’ve set up. Any thoughts? I’d love to use this app because it looks like it will be really useful. I also bought the starter kit and am excited to receive it. Thank you!

I Have Read Your Blog And Its Nice. We Found It Really Interesting In Getting A Piece Of Information On How To Manage The Invisalign For The First Week. Thanks For Sharing This With Us.

Very good post

cannot thank you enough…

This is some really good information about Invisalign aligners. It is nice to know that it would be smart to consider using lukewarm water to help clean your aligners. Personally, if I was getting aligners I would want to talk to a dentist about if there are any good cleaning solutions available that I could use on them. https://www.smilespauk.com/invisalign/

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Smile Comfortably

Invisalign Review: A Fresh Look At The Original Clear Aligners

Last updated on September 14, 2023 4 Comments

Invisalign is incredibly popular because it can treat many of the same conditions as braces, but much more discreetly. Backed by decades of experience and research, it’s a widely trusted option for treating anything from minor crowding to severe bite issues. Even though it’s pretty expensive, we think Invisalign is one of the industry’s most reliable, versatile, and powerful clear aligners.

If you’re trying to decide whether Invisalign is worth the price, you’ve come to the right place. In this review, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of Invisalign to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.

Table of Contents

Invisalign at a glance.

• Invisalign is the largest and most well-established clear aligner brand, and they’ve treated over 15 million people.
• Invisalign’s aligners can incorporate attachments and elastics, making them capable of complex dental shifts. They can also address some bite issues.
• You can only get Invisalign in-person by visiting a dentist or orthodontist who provides it. You’ll visit this provider around every 4–10 weeks for check-ups during treatment.
• Invisalign often takes 12–24 months, but could take as few as six, depending on your condition.
• The cost of Invisalign is $3,000–$8,000 on average, but it depends on your provider and the severity of your misalignment.

Concerned About The Cost of Invisalign?

If you’re worried about Invisalign’s high price tag, you’re not alone. While Invisalign is widely trusted by dentists and orthodontists, it isn’t the only clear aligner brand out there, and a few others are significantly more affordable. If you’ve got a mild misalignment and you’re interested in straightening your teeth without breaking the bank, visit our review of the eight best Invisalign alternatives .

How Does Invisalign Work?

Before getting started, your chosen dentist will evaluate your teeth and take a 3D scan to confirm that you’ll be a suitable candidate for Invisalign. If you’re deemed a good fit, your dentist will take scans of your teeth before sending everything off to Invisalign’s dental lab. Invisalign will collaborate with your dentist to create your customized clear aligners and treatment plan.

Once they’ve confirmed your treatment plan, Invisalign will mail the aligners to your dentist. You’ll make an appointment to pick up your new aligners and try them on before starting treatment. During this appointment, your dentist will also review essential instructions for wearing clear aligners. Most importantly, you should wear the aligners for 22 hours per day and only remove them to eat, drink, or brush your teeth. Your teeth will shift gradually over the next 12–24 months until they’ve reached the desired position.

Some dentists also offer Invisalign Express , a shorter version for milder misalignments. The treatment is best suited for much less complex cases and only takes about six months to complete.

Pros & Cons of Invisalign

Although there are dozens of clear aligner brands on the market today, including a variety of at-home treatment options like Byte and SmileDirectClub , Invisalign remains the industry leader. Often recommended for its versatility, Invisalign stands out for its ability to correct nearly the same range of cases as metal braces, even complex bite issues. It’s also widely available, so you’ll likely have no trouble finding a dentist who offers Invisalign treatment.

However, like any orthodontic treatment option, Invisalign isn’t without its downsides. In this guide, we’ll explore Invisalign’s scope of treatment, affordability, convenience, appearance, and customer support. We’ve provided a lot more detail on how Invisalign stacks up category by category, but here’s a quick summary of the biggest pros and cons:

Invisalign Pros

• 20+ Years of Experience : Available to the public since 1998, Invisalign is the longest-standing clear aligner brand, so you can be confident that you’re choosing a reliable, time-tested treatment option.
• Very Discreet : Compared to braces, Invisalign is much less visible and more convenient when it comes to eating and maintaining good oral hygiene.
• Easy to Find : It's the most widely available in-office clear aligner brand, so it's easy for most people to find an Invisalign provider (or several) in their area. At-home options like Byte can ship almost anywhere, but if you want in-person care, Invisalign has thousands of providers.
• Regular In-Person Oversight : You’ll get plenty of in-person attention from your chosen dentist throughout the treatment process. This is a major advantage over new at-home clear aligner options like SmileDirectClub, which assign you a dentist at random and don’t offer any facetime with your provider.
• Can Treat Complex Cases : Because your provider can incorporate elastics and dental attachments in your treatment plan, Invisalign can correct almost the same variety of complex conditions as braces. This is another advantage over at-home options like SmileDirectClub, which are only designed to address mild-to-moderate cases of misalignment.

Invisalign Cons

• High Average Prices : Invisalign treatment typically costs between $3,000 to $8,000 (and sometimes even more), making it one of the most expensive clear aligner brands available. By comparison, at-home aligners generally cost $1,200–$2,200.
• Longer Treatment Times : With an average treatment time of 18 months, Invisalign requires a significantly greater time commitment than at-home clear aligner services, which deliver results in six months on average. However, this is largely because Invisalign can treat more complex cases that take longer to correct.

Our Review Methodology

Smile Prep’s reviews are prepared and presented from the perspective of a well-informed consumer. Our starting point for all of our reviews is a careful survey of a company’s marketing claims and available third party customer reviews. We rely on the accuracy of company claims and do not independently verify them. Our reviews use this information to help our readers get information about the available options in a centralized location. You can learn more about our review process by checking out our publishing principles .

Scope of Treatment

Orthodontic treatment is a big investment, so you want to make sure the treatment option you choose gives you the results you’re after. Invisalign is the biggest name in clear aligner therapy, and as an in-office treatment, it has a wide scope of treatment, addressing nearly the same range of issues as braces — with a few notable exceptions. Here’s what to know about what Invisalign can and cannot treat.

Invisalign claims it can treat a wide range of cases, documenting its results with complex misalignments on its website.

According to Invisalign , their aligners have “​​demonstrated success in treating Class I, II, and III malocclusions,” including:

• Crowded Teeth : Invisalign can treat nearly all cases of tooth crowding . The exception is when the teeth overlap in a way that prevents the aligners from achieving a good grip, even with attachments. However, this is rare.
• Teeth Gaps : Invisalign can close most tooth gaps. The system can address gaps that are 6 mm wide or less . Anything larger than this may require braces, at least to bring the gap down to 6mm so the patient can switch to Invisalign.
• Overbite : Invisalign can address most cases of overbite by itself. However, if a case involves severe irregularity in the jaw, it might require surgery instead . When overbite is strictly dental in nature, or the jaws only need milder adjustments, Invisalign is an option.
• Underbite : Typically, Invisalign can address underbites , but it depends on the severity of the case and if you have any skeletal misalignments. If you need jaw adjustments, it may require surgery, headgear, or metal braces.
• Crossbite : Invisalign can address nearly all crossbites that require up to 2 mm of movement. It all depends on the relationships between the teeth and the grip the aligners can achieve.
• Open Bite : Mild-to-moderate open bites can be adjusted using Invisalign . It works best on anterior open bites but can help with some posterior open bites as well.
• Snaggletooth : This is when a tooth is rotated in place. Invisalign can make rotations of 20 degrees or less . This is on par with most in-office aligners.
• Midline Misalignment : Generally speaking, Invisalign can correct midline misalignment — when the middle of the upper front teeth don’t align with the midline of your face as a whole. However, this can depend upon the severity.

Invisalign can move all the teeth, including the molars. It also works when treating individuals who do not have all of their adult teeth yet. Depending on the approach and attachments, it can also make changes to jaw position. Invisalign is among the most powerful clear aligners on the market, though it’s not perfect for every case. If it’s not a great fit for you, you and your dentist may need to explore other options.

• “ I was born without my lateral incisors so basically I have two missing teeth which has created large spacing through my smile…Turns out that Invisalign really can fix anything!! I’ve made so much progress in a short amount of time. ” Valentina T., Norfolk Verified Customer * Read More

Part of what gives Invisalign a wide scope of treatment is its ability to incorporate attachments.

Versatility is one of Invisalign’s best qualities. Dentists have the option of adding SmartForce attachments that allow their aligners to exert more force. These supplemental attachments are small, tooth-colored shapes that can improve orthodontic dental shifts , making it possible for Invisalign to treat more complex issues.

Plus, they can incorporate standard orthodontic attachments and elastics. Dentists can only place these attachments during in-person visits, so at-home services like Byte can’t achieve the same force and level of detail.

You’ll receive in-person care on a regular basis, allowing your doctor to make adjustments and catch problems before they become severe.

Invisalign is a very hands-on treatment. Their ClinCheck software creates your treatment plan, your dentist tweaks it, and then they can change it at any time to better suit your needs. With office visits every 4–10 weeks (on average), you’ll get intensive in-person oversight, allowing your dentist to keep you on track and head off any issues before they become serious.

Certain at-home services, like SmileDirectClub and AlignerCo, employ remote monitoring systems where you’ll upload photos of your teeth for their teams to review every few weeks. That might provide some peace of mind, but there’s only so much they can do remotely. It’s not quite as robust as regular hands-on care.

Invisalign uses their proprietary SmartTrack plastic to create their aligners.

SmartTrack is a multilayer aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane/copolyester blend. Studies have demonstrated that this plastic is safe for human use . And these results aren’t a one-off or unique to trials funded by Align Technology. Invisalign and its plastic consistently perform well according to reviews of various studies and clinical data.

Invisalign customers have shared their experiences with us, and their reviews back up the company’s claims.

In fact, based on the reviews we’ve received , there is little that Invisalign cannot treat. Users have shown us their results for everything from simple crowding to complex bite issues and midline misalignment. In every category, customers have reported quality results.

The majority of reviews we’ve gotten award the system five stars. In the reviews we’ve received, very few rate it lower than four stars, indicating the company delivers on its scope of treatment promises.

But will Invisalign work for you? The only way to know is to sit down for an evaluation with a provider.

They’ll complete a visual exam and take the necessary diagnostics to determine the nature and severity of your misalignments and select the best treatment method.

Invisalign does offer a brief smile quiz on their website. Just keep in mind that this is not a diagnostic. No matter how you answer, the quiz will suggest that you schedule a consultation with a provider. Think of it as a way to find Invisalign dentists and orthodontists near you, not a screening procedure.

Affordability

Like most conventional orthodontic treatments, Invisalign can carry a hefty price tag, depending on the complexity of your condition and your dentist’s rates. It’s typically pricier than most other in-office clear aligners and way more expensive than at-home ones.

Of course, that cost gets you a powerful treatment and the reassurance of in-person oversight throughout the process, but it can still be intimidating. Fortunately, insurance might provide some assistance, and you can make the costs more manageable by enrolling in a financing plan.

At around $5,000 on average, Invisalign requires a significant financial investment.

The higher cost of Invisalign treatment results from the added cost for dental visits. Seeing a dentist regularly to monitor your treatment does not come cheap. Home aligners save you this added cost by offering treatment entirely from home — no office visits required. So, if one of your top priorities is choosing your dentist and having them administer your treatment, Invisalign may be worth the price. However, if you don’t mind working with a dentist remotely, home aligners are a much cheaper alternative.

Unfortunately, Invisalign is also often more expensive than other in-office treatments like ClearCorrect and hybrid treatments like Candid. Plus, the cost doesn’t always include aftercare retainers, so you may have to pay an extra fee for them. Retainers typically cost at least $100 and are crucial to prevent your teeth from shifting after treatment is complete.

However, if you have a pretty minor misalignment, you might be eligible for Invisalign Express instead — a shorter Invisalign treatment for mild cases that often costs $1,500–$4,000 .

• “ It is much pricier than other companies but I can already feel my jaw alignment has changed in a few weeks alone. I can see and feel progress in my jaw especially. ” Stephanie K., Lakewood CO Verified Customer * Read More

Your insurance may provide partial coverage, but it depends on your specific plan.

If your insurance plan includes orthodontic benefits, there’s a chance that it might cover part of your Invisalign treatment, making the price much more accessible. If the corrections you’re making are purely cosmetic, coverage is less likely, but if orthodontic treatment is necessary to improve your overall oral health, insurance might cover Invisalign .

Just know that it all depends on your specific plan, and most will only cover 25–50% of the price. Plus, some plans put limits on age or lifetime spending. The only way to know for sure if you’ll receive coverage is to contact your insurance provider.

Most dentists offer payment plans or financing for Invisalign, but they often require a credit check, and some people might not qualify.

To make Invisalign more financially manageable, many dentists offer some sort of payment plan to divide the cost of treatment into monthly payments. However, these plans vary significantly, depending on the dentist. Most require a down payment and a credit check for approval. That’s why it’s nice that some at-home aligner treatments — specifically Byte, AlignerCo, and SmileDirectClub — provide in-house financing plans that don’t require a credit check.

Interest rates for financing programs can also be pretty hefty, especially if your credit is below average. To get a better sense of your options, it’s best to compare dentists and their financing programs to make treatment more budget-friendly.

Convenience

Invisalign’s regular office visits serve an important purpose. They provide hands-on care that allows your dentist or orthodontist to correct a wide range of severe conditions. But they also require a time commitment. For some, particularly people with complex misalignments, that commitment is totally worth it. For others, it might be less convenient.

We think those office visits, plus longer treatment times, make it less convenient than fully remote options like Byte and SmileDirectClub, even though getting started with Invisalign is a whole lot simpler.

Invisalign typically takes at least 12 months to deliver your final results.

So, if you have an important event coming up in the next few months, Invisalign may not fit your timeline. In contrast, home aligners only take about six months. This difference is often because dentists use Invisalign for more severe conditions, which take longer to correct, while at-home aligners are normally only viable for minor misalignments. If you only want to make small, cosmetic changes, your Invisalign timeline might be closer to six months as well.

We think getting started with Invisalign is much easier than getting started with most home aligners.

You will need to schedule an appointment with an Invisalign provider to begin treatment. However, unlike with home aligners, you won’t need to take any impressions or photos of your teeth yourself. Your dentist and their team of technicians will take your X-rays and dental scans in the office. These scans are more accurate than impressions taken at home — plus, many patients find them quicker and more comfortable .

Your dentist will then send the impressions off to Invisalign’s lab to create your custom treatment plan. All you need to do after that is schedule an appointment to pick up your aligners and begin treatment. You’ll have a chance to try on the aligners before leaving the office, and your dentist can make any necessary changes or request a new set of aligners if you aren’t happy with the fit.

These are fairly standard procedures for in-office clear aligner treatment, so it’s a similar level of convenience to ClearCorrect, SureSmile, 3M Clarity Aligners, and Six Month Smiles.

• “ I went through a local orthodontist for my Invisalign – although the price was pretty steep, I recommend it highly. The scan was a little uncomfortable. They take 1,000s of photos of your teeth with a little tool while prying your mouth open. For anyone who’s had to do a dental impression, it’s way more accurate and not as awful as that. No bad tasting goo! ” Leslie H., Rapid City SD Verified Customer * Read More

The wait time to get your treatment plan prepped and aligners shipped is often around four weeks.

It can take up to eight weeks for some home aligner companies to process your impressions, create a treatment plan, and send out your custom aligners. Invisalign can be faster, as some providers say you’ll only wait a few weeks from your first appointment to start treatment. That’s pretty comparable to Invisalign’s in-office competition and Candid’s hybrid model. However, keep in mind that Invisalign aligners are shipped to your dentist, not your home, so you’ll need to go pick them up.

Office visits every 4–10 weeks can clutter your schedule.

Office visits are the backbone of Invisalign’s treatment. They let your doctor evaluate your progress, add or move attachments, provide new aligners, and tweak your treatment plan if necessary. But they’re also pretty time-consuming. Traveling to the office and potentially taking time off work or school every few weeks can be a hassle, which is why we think at-home aligners — which don’t require a single office visit — are much more convenient.

However, if you value the benefits of in-person care, the time spent traveling to and from appointments might be well worth it.

• “ The orthodontist was very knowledgeable and really did a great job explaining the process. I was able to see exactly what to expect at the end. … only having to go in every 8 weeks for the next set makes this very easy for working adults! ” Christina G., Ridgewood Verified Customer * Read More

Getting started with Invisalign is usually pretty simple since your doctor will be doing most of the work. However, the lengthy treatment time and required monthly dental visits can be drawbacks for some people.

Most adults agree that the best-looking orthodontic option is the least visible one. A key selling point of all clear aligner products is that they are much less noticeable than braces. For this reason, all clear aligners score well in terms of appearance, and Invisalign is no exception.

That said, not every brand looks exactly the same. While they’re all made from transparent, BPA-free plastic, variations in materials and manufacturing processes cause subtle differences in appearance . Which looks best, however, is up to you and your aesthetic preferences.

Invisalign aligners are frosted and trimmed to follow the gum line, which we think helps them match your naturally matte teeth.

Our teeth are porous, which makes their surfaces appear matte. Some home aligner brands use a smooth, reflective plastic material, which can look artificially shiny, in our opinion. Still, some customers actually like the shininess of other brands, as they feel it makes their smile gleam. So, it’s an entirely personal preference.

Some companies cut their aligners straight across instead of trimming them to match your gum line. Invisalign’s scalloped look — which matches your gum line — is less noticeable, which some customers find more visually appealing. Clear aligners that cover the gums may be more retentive and apply more force , but Invisalign compensates by incorporating attachments when necessary.

Invisalign’s attachments and elastics can make their aligners more noticeable.

As we mentioned, Invisalign can enhance their aligners’ power and precision by providing more versatility with SmartForce attachments . Although they are tooth-colored, the attachments can make your aligners more noticeable. At-home aligner systems can’t incorporate any attachments, which makes their aligners less powerful, but also more discreet.

• “ I have attachments (or buttons) on most of my teeth, which make the aligners a little more noticeable than I would have liked, but the attachments help move the teeth more efficiently. They are still far less noticeable than traditional braces and most people don’t even notice I have them until I mention it. ” Danica C., Saint Johnsbury VT Verified Customer * Read More

As with other clear aligners brands, you’ll want to take out your aligners before eating & drinking to avoid stains .

Invisalign aligners are reasonably stain-resistant, although we recommend removing them to eat or drink anything except water, especially dark beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine.

Patient Experience

Your Invisalign journey begins with a trip to the dentist and ends with a beautiful new smile, but what happens in between? That’s where the patient experience takes form, and customer service, oversight, quality assurance, and satisfaction guarantees can all play a role.

In our opinion, consistent in-person care makes Invisalign’s patient experience a lot more personalized and supportive than most other clear aligner treatments, especially at-home ones that put you in touch with a remote representative instead of a doctor who knows you and your teeth intimately.

Like most other in-office clear aligner brands, Invisalign’s customer support is highly individualized.

You’ll have the benefit of regularly visiting a dentist who can provide hands-on assistance if you have any concerns during treatment. So, if you have questions or if your treatment is not going as planned, you always have the option to call the dental office and schedule an appointment.

The quality of Invsialign’s customer service can vary, depending on the dentist you choose. However, home aligners don’t even offer dental appointments during treatment. Instead, you have to take questions and concerns to the company via email, phone, or webchat and wait for their response. Invisalign’s regular appointments might be inconvenient, but they can also be reassuring, especially if you have a dental concern in the middle of treatment.

Invisalign’s consistent oversight can help address problems mid-treatment to keep your smile on track.

With Invisalign and other in-office clear aligners, your dentist can also make minor adjustments to your aligners or wear schedule during your monthly appointments. For example, if your aligners are uncomfortable or causing excessive pain, your dentist may be able to fix them on the spot. At the very least, they can contact Invisalign to request new aligners or revise your treatment plan. This type of on-the-fly adjustment isn’t an option for at-home treatments.

• “ Thankfully I never needed Invisalign’s customer service directly, as I met monthly with my dentist to check in. Invisalign was perfect for me since I preferred the option of having a dentist to follow the treatment, versus other companies where you are on your own. ” Mallory H., Hoboken Verified Customer * Read More

If you’re not happy with your results, Invisalign can provide refinements for no extra cost.

Your smile might not be exactly where you want it at the end of your initial treatment plan. But don’t worry, your dentist can rescan your teeth and create new aligners to add the finishing touch. And if you have Invisalign’s full treatment, you won’t need to pay anything extra. It will just extend your timeline.

This is pretty standard for comprehensive in-office treatments, but it’s not guaranteed for at-home systems, which sometimes charge an extra fee for refinements.

Best Alternatives to Invisalign

Invisalign is a reputable clear aligner brand, but it’s not the only option. From comprehensive in-office clear aligner competitors to at-home options that emphasize convenience, there are a lot of excellent clear aligners out there. In the end, the best fit for you depends on your unique condition and priorities, but here’s a rundown of three of our favorite Invisalign alternatives .

ClearCorrect

$3,000–$6,000

When it comes to comprehensive in-office clear aligner options, ClearCorrect is one of Invisalign’s most prominent direct competitors. Like Invisalign, your dentist will develop and oversee your ClearCorrect treatment, adding attachments when necessary to correct a wide range of conditions, even severe misalignments and bite issues.

Founded in 2006, ClearCorrect isn’t as experienced as Invisalign, but they’ve still been delivering quality results for nearly two decades and offer a comparable experience. Plus, they typically charge dentists and orthodontists less for lab fees, which can make their aligners slightly more affordable.

Want To Learn More About ClearCorrect?

If you want a comprehensive in-office treatment that delivers the same effectiveness as Invisalign, yet can be more affordable, ClearCorrect is worth considering. Visit their website to find a ClearCorrect provider or read our in-depth review to learn more.

Unlike Invisalign, Byte treatment doesn’t require a single trip to the dentist’s office, and they advertise average treatment plan lengths of just 4–5 months. Byte’s high-frequency vibration device, the “HyperByte,” helps provide a more comfortable aligner fit by applying gentle micropulses to the teeth, according to the company. Additionally, there’s evidence that devices like this might encourage faster teeth movements for some (per review by our non-clinical team).

Byte’s sticker price is just $1,999, and this includes whitening, aftercare retainers, and the HyperByte device. They also offer flexible payment options and 100% approval on financing. Still, Byte can’t treat severe misalignments like Invisalign, and they’ve only been available to the public since 2018, so they don’t have nearly as long of a track record.

Want To Learn More About Byte?

If you are looking to correct a mild-to-moderate misalignment ASAP, and want to go with a well-known brand that doesn’t cut corners on customer support, take a look at Byte. Visit Byte’s website or read our in-depth Byte review to learn more.

Candid straddles the line between in-office and at-home care. To kick off treatment, you’ll have an in-person consultation and examination with one of Candid’s 800+ in-network dentists. Then, for the remainder of your treatment, you’ll submit photos of your teeth every 14 days via the CandidMonitoring system so your dentist and Candid can evaluate your progress.

At $3,500+, their price point is higher than fully remote services like Byte, but you’re paying for the involvement of a local dentist throughout the entire process, and it’s still often more affordable than Invisalign. Anyone who wants hands-on care from a dentist, combined with the convenience of at-home monitoring, will find a lot to love here.

Want To Learn More About Candid?

Candid’s unique hybrid model gives you the reassurance of in-person care, paired with easy remote oversight. Visit the Candid website or read our comprehensive review to learn more.

If you’re looking for the most trusted and comprehensive clear aligner treatment, Invisalign is a great option. However, if you’re working with a limited budget or a tight schedule, an at-home alternative might be a better choice.

To get a better idea of which option might be the best fit for you, check out the resources below.

Find an Invisalign Provider Near You

Visit Invisalign

Compare Other Clear Aligner Options

Compare Your Options

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is invisalign.

The cost of Invisalign depends on the severity of your condition and your dentist’s rates, but on average, it’s between $3,000 and $8,000.

How long does Invisalign take?

It depends on your misalignment. The more severe your case, the longer your treatment will probably take. Invisalign treatment typically lasts 12–24 months, but mild cases can take just a few months.

How do I get started with Invisalign?

If your regular dentist or orthodontist offers Invisalign, you can get it through them. Otherwise, use Invisalign’s Doctor Locator to find providers near you. We recommend visiting a few different doctors and comparing their prices before deciding.

Does Invisalign have a nighttime-only option?

Invisalign as a company does not have a nighttime aligner system. Research on the safety and effectiveness of nighttime aligners is mixed, although a few at-home aligner brands offer it. Check out our guide to the best nighttime teeth aligners for more information.

Do I need to change my diet for Invisalign treatment?

It won’t change as a mandatory part of treatment. However, many patients find they eat less often during treatment, since you need to take your aligners out before you eat a meal or snack, then brush your teeth before putting them back in.

Will Invisalign aligners break?

Not usually but they aren’t indestructible either. They are designed to stand up to normal biting pressures, but not chewing or severe clenching and grinding of the teeth. It is possible to wear them out or even break them.

Do clear aligners hurt?

Not in the same way that braces do. Braces irritate the soft tissues of the mouth and cause tenderness of the teeth. Aligners can also cause tenderness to bite pressure, but they generally do not hurt the soft tissues unless they are cut wrong.

Are at-home aligners always a good Invisalign alternative?

Only if you are making cosmetic changes to your tooth alignment. If you have larger or complex shifts to make, you must use an in-office treatment. If you are uncertain where your case falls, most remote clear aligner companies will refund the cost of your impression kit if you aren’t a candidate.

Are there cases that even Invisalign cannot handle?

Yes, but these are fairly rare. Conditions that Invisalign cannot correct, at least on its own, include:

• Problems with jaw shape or position that require surgery or headgear
• Irregular tooth shape
• Teeth that are rotated more than 20 degrees out of alignment
• Gaps between the teeth that exceed 6mm
• Teeth that need to be raised or lowered

Is there an age limit for Invisalign?

Invisalign once limited their treatment to patients 16 and older. Then, Invisalign Teen was launched for children as young as 12. Now, Invisalign First is available and able to treat children as young as 6.

When will I notice my teeth shifting?

Most people will notice a visual difference in their tooth alignment by the time they are on their third aligner set. However, you might notice that your bite feels different even sooner.

Are clear aligners safe?

Absolutely! Clear aligners have been transforming smiles for over two decades, and they were tested in clinical trials before that. While some companies may be more reputable than others, clear aligner technology as a whole is safe and healthy to use.

Reader Interactions

Michelle says

November 13, 2021 at 7:38 am

The idea of retainers for life is not practical. What if you get sick and end up in the hospital? In that case all the gains achieved may be lost because you cant get to use your night retianers. Does anybody offer a solution for this?

November 12, 2021 at 3:01 pm

We got into a treatment plan with Invisalign/ortho work just over two years now with no end in sight. It cost a lot! We should have done more research ourselves. As a parent I wanted the best for my child, but I do regret starting this journey! What to do now?!!!

Smile Prep says

November 12, 2021 at 3:36 pm

Hi Pat – yes, Invisalign treatment can often take upwards of 2 years from start to finish. This is not necessarily unusual, and may just mean that your dental provider is taking a very thorough approach that will be a positive for child’s smile and long term dental health. Hopefully that’s the case. In our experience, Dentists normally bill a fixed price for a full course of treatment, and don’t add fees unless delays are caused by patient compliance issues (e.g. failing to wear aligner for 22 hour per day, or as prescribed). So, while it sounds as though your child’ treatment has dragged on longer than originally expected, I should hope you haven’t wound up paying extra as a result. However, if you feel that you are being charged too much for your child’s treatment, or have have otherwise lost confidence in your current Invisalign provider, you might consider taking your child to a different Invisalign provider in your area for a second opinion. You can ask your current dental provider to transfer your child’s Invisalign case to a new dental provider if that’s ultimately your preference.

September 16, 2021 at 12:12 pm

This is a good, thorough review. However, I would just like to add that I am starting Invisalign next week and it is all-inclusive. I clench my teeth at night and not only does my Invisalign cover my retainers, he is even going to make me a stronger set so that I do not chew through it in a few months.

October 20, 2021 at 12:54 am

Hi Sarah – thanks for your comment. With Invisalign, the quality of care you receive and what your treatment plan covers can vary depending on your dentist, who is ultimately responsible for designing your treatment. In our experience, most dentists will go out of their way to ensure their patients’ needs are fully met. It sounds like you’ve found an excellent dentist to work with!

nesha borrero says

August 28, 2020 at 12:46 am

The dentist is telling me I have to wear retainers for three years. Isn’t that for life?

August 28, 2020 at 9:19 pm

Hi Nesha – it’s our understanding that most dentists and orthodontists recommend wearing a retainer for 20 hours a day for the first several months after completing treatment, and while sleeping for the rest of your life. It’s our understanding that this protocol seems to minimize the chances that your teeth will shift out of position following treatment. Here’s an article we wrote about this very topic.

With that said, do keep in mind that we’re not dental professionals, so don’t take our word for it! We always recommend following your dentist’s advice, or seeking out a second opinion from another qualified dental professional if you have doubts.

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Invisalign Reviews (2023): The Good, Bad & Ugly Reality

Are your teeth crooked? Does your bite seem slightly off? Are your gums receding? Let me guess, you want to fix a few orthodontic issues, but you aren’t sure about plunking down thousands of dollars for Invisalign.

My Invisalign Experience

Well, I’m here to help. I’ll tell you everything you ever wanted to know about Invisalign but were too afraid to ask.   The details below document my Invisalign experience and the experiences of others I know. The details included here stem from my Invisalign experience. I didn’t receive compensation for writing this post. I just wanted to help others who are searching for more clarity on the Invisalign experience before paying to use it.

My Invisalign Review

This post is my honest and unbiased Invisalign review. It includes the details of my year-long Invisalign journey. If you are searching the internet for Invisalign reviews for adults, be very careful. A lot of information is misleading.

For example, I recently found Invisalign competitors writing negative reviews to sell their line of clear aligners. Be wary of websites promoting Invisalign alternatives.

Bad Invisalign Experience

Before starting Invisalign, I wanted to learn as much as I could about the process. I knew I needed a solution for my slightly crooked teeth and misaligned bite, but I felt incredibly nervous about using invisible Invisalign aligners to fix them.

To ease my mind, I searched the internet for information that could help. Most dental websites present positive Invisalign reviews, but I wanted to read honest, unbiased reviews from actual patients.

Invisalign Ruined My Teeth

I found examples of clients who thought Invisalign ruined their teeth. Their negative Invisalign reviews included lists of problems, complaints, and mistakes. Invisalign failures and horror stories made me hesitant to try Invisalign for myself.  But then I wondered, what could I learn from each bad Invisalign experience? What could I learn from the people shouting, “Invisalign ruined my teeth!”

Why did Invisalign fail in some instances? Why did some patients fail to achieve perfect smiles, and what could those negative Invisalign reviews teach me? The start of my Invisalign journey led me to the answers.

The Start of My Invisalign Journey

Before I signed up for Invisalign, I created a list of questions. Here are a few of them:

• How does Invisalign work?
• Does Invisalign hurt?
• Will my teeth look perfect after Invisalign?
• What can go wrong with Invisalign?
• Can Invisalign cause gum recession or black triangles?
• Does Invisalign cause cavities?
• How long does Invisalign take?
• How much does Invisalign cost?

I can now answer these questions, and many more, including: is Invisalign worth it? I’ve been an  Invisalign patient for over one year now . I just finished the process and can now provide the details from my Invisalign journey. This post is my honest Invisalign review. It includes the details I wish I had known when I was beginning.

I started wearing Invisalign in September of 2018 and wore them through 2019.

In 2019 I finished wearing my last Invisalign tray. I immediately wrote down everything I could remember about the Invisalign experience. I hope this Invisalign review will help you.

In 2020 and 2021, I visited my orthodontist for periodic inspections. She ensured my Invisalign retainer fit as tightly as my last Invisalign tray.

It’s now 2022, and I’m still happy with my decision to use Invisalign as my teeth straightening solution. I wear a retainer nightly to ensure my bite doesn’t shift and that all of my teeth remain in their optimal positions. It’s been three and a half years since I started the Invisalign process and I still think the money, time, and effort were worth it.

Choosing an Invisalign Provider

Where’s the best place to start? Well, right from the beginning, of course. Before we dive too deep into the nitty-gritty details of Invisalign, let’s talk about how the whole process works.

First, you will visit your dentist or orthodontist for an evaluation. If you don’t have a trusted relationship with your practitioner, now is the time to scour your area for a new one.

Choosing an Invisalign provider you trust is the most important part of this process . You want to feel comfortable asking questions and raising concerns. The Reddit Invisalign subgroup is full of patients who aren’t sure about their provider’s choices. It’s okay to ask the internet for a second opinion, but you need to feel confident talking about treatment options with your provider too.

Ask your provider how they handle questions and complaints throughout your Invisalign experience. Do they always make time to talk to patients during their appointments? Will you see the dentist or orthodontist every visit?

I visited two dentists and an orthodontist before making my decision. My dentist turned me away for Invisalign treatment. She said, “If you need extensive tooth movements or bite improvements, you may want to seek out an orthodontist. Orthodontists receive extra training in the art of teeth straightening.”

Fortunately, my teeth were relatively straight before Invisalign. Unfortunately, I needed Invisalign treatment to fix bite problems that were leading to bone loss and gum recession.

Negative Invisalign Reviews: Invisalign Gone Wrong

My dentist’s words echo all across the internet. Most negative Invisalign feedback comes from patients who are unhappy with their final results. Why would a patient have a bad experience with Invisalign? Most negative Invisalign reviews blame dentists who fail to move teeth properly.

Invisalign Can Ruin Your Teeth

What can go wrong with Invisalign? You can end up with bad results: crooked teeth, cavities, gum disease, jaw pain, or a misaligned bite. In other words, you can spend a ridiculous amount of money and end up with more dental issues than you ever imagined.

Invisalign Complaints

To avoid bad Invisalign results, you need to understand your provider’s role in the Invisalign process.  Contrary to popular belief, Invisalign treatment is more than a series of plastic trays.

Unlike Smile Direct and other at-home aligner companies, Invisalign provides you with a professional to oversee the entire tooth-moving process.

Throughout your treatment, your provider will make adjustments to the computer-generated Invisalign plan. Your provider can tweak the refinement plans and force stubborn teeth to move when things get off track. If your provider lacks experience, Invisalign could ruin your teeth.

Invisalign Bad Results

Bad Invisalign results happen when teeth don’t move the way the provider expects, and this can result in jaw pain, gum disease, poor alignment, and crooked teeth.

Keep in mind that dentists and orthodontists both attend dental school, but orthodontists undergo additional years of training to learn how to align teeth and improve bite issues.

That extra training doesn’t mean orthodontists will perform the work perfectly. It also doesn’t mean you need to choose an orthodontist over a dentist. It just means you should investigate the options thoroughly before choosing a provider.

Having gone through the Invisalign experience myself, I would never choose a dentist over an orthodontist, but of course, that’s just my opinion.

Invisalign Horror Stories & Regrets

Most Invisalign horror stories come from patients who used dentists for their Invisalign treatments. It’s up to your provider to decide what to do when teeth don’t move. In the worst-case scenarios, dentists keep patients trapped in never-ending treatment cycles or, worse yet, give up, leaving patients with bad results.

Some adult patients say Invisalign is the worst mistake of their lives. Think carefully before choosing a provider, and don’t let that person be you! Unfortunately, Invisalign horror stories lead to Invisalign regrets. Invisalign can be a very good or bad experience depending on who performs the work. If you don’t want to regret your Invisalign experience, search for a well-trained provider you can trust.

Are My Teeth Too Bad for Invisalign?

Invisalign users run the gamut from those requiring very little work to those who need extensive tooth movements. If you aren’t sure if Invisalign will work, talk to your dentist or orthodontist openly and honestly about your concerns.

Significant tooth movements will undoubtedly take longer than a few minor adjustments, and in some severe cases, braces are a better alternative. Orthodontists can make additional adjustments that aren’t always possible with Invisalign trays.

Is Invisalign Worth It?

Before plunking down thousands of dollars and years’ worth of time, you want to know is Invisalign worth it? Is Invisalign worth the time and money?

The Invisalign journey isn’t an easy one. It takes a lot of patience to wear Invisalign trays twenty-two hours a day for months and years. Are the sacrifices worth the reward of straight teeth?

If your provider performs the work correctly, Invisalign is worth it. It doesn’t matter if you require significant changes or a minor case of teeth adjustment.

The key is to find an experienced, well-trained provider to perform your dental work. If you choose Invisalign go or Invisalign express, pay extra special attention to your provider’s success rates with these tools. Both have short durations and little room for errors.

Invisalign Reviews & Ratings

Before choosing your provider, remember that a quick Google search can reveal a wealth of information from prior patients. Invisalign ratings depend on the success of each patient’s Invisalign journey. Simply type in your provider’s name and search for their ratings and reviews. Read each Invisalign review carefully.

Before and After Invisalign

Many providers maintain a portfolio of before and after images from former Invisalign patients. Ask your provider if they can show you examples of other patients with similar problems. If your teeth need a lot of adjustments search through the books and look at before and after photos of the worst cases. Look through each of these photos carefully.

Don’t just look at the way a patient smiles. Make sure that you can view each patient’s mouth from the top, bottom, front, and sides. Remember, you can’t see misalignment without looking at those profile images. A smile can look beautiful but not function properly when a bite is misaligned.

Check to see if the patients’ teeth are straight and well-aligned.

Does the reality of your providers’ before and after Invisalign images match your expectations? Do you like the Invisalign results you see?

Invisalign Expertise

Invisalign categorizes providers by the number of cases they handle. A more experienced provider will be more familiar with complex cases than one who has treated fewer cases. Again, this is just one of many critical criteria to consider.

If you choose a provider with more experience you’ll likely have better Invisalign results.

Here are the current categories and the associated number of cases per year.

• General Provider – 10 Invisalign cases per year
• Elite Provider – 300 cases including a minimum of 50 every six months
• Top 1% – 800 cases including 200 cases per year

Many negative Invisalign reviews are written about providers with less knowledge and experience . Providers with more expertise may cost more, but this is one of those instances where you don’t want to choose the cheapest option.

Initial Consultation

Most Invisalign providers offer a free consultation. That means you don’t have to use the first provider you meet. Instead, you can visit several dentists and orthodontists until you find one that helps you feel comfortable.

During that first appointment, the orthodontist or dentist will look at your teeth, the shape of your mouth, and your bite (underbite, overbite, open bite, etc.). After taking a look, they can determine if you are a candidate for Invisalign and discuss the plan for orthodontic treatment.

While Invisalign can correct many orthodontic issues, it cannot fix all of them. In severe cases, your provider may recommend jaw surgery or traditional braces as alternatives.

Once you choose a provider and determine that you are a candidate for Invisalign, the real fun can begin. During your initial consultation, your provider will take photographs of your teeth and face along with a series of x-rays.

At this point, some providers will use an impression kit to take a mold of your teeth, while others will use a scanning machine to create a three-dimensional, digital image.

Up-To-Date Invisalign Technology

Here is another place where negative Invisalign reviews swayed my purchasing decision . My Invisalign provider uses 3-D digital imaging equipment, which provides a highly accurate picture of my teeth.

If your provider doesn’t have state-of-the-art technology, they’ll need to use molds. Molds aren’t entirely accurate. Plus, they are unbelievably messy and uncomfortable. The orthodontist fills a mold with goo, presses it into your mouth, and waits until it hardens a bit before she removes it. Some people won’t be bothered by this process, but I hate it. I had it done as a teenager eons ago, and I still haven’t forgotten it.

The digital scanner is painless, super quick, and unbelievably accurate. I decided to use a provider that avoided that whole messy process, and I’m super thankful I did. A friend of mine chose a provider who used molds and had a really bad experience with them.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign will use that information to create a step-by-step computer model showing exactly how each aligner moves teeth throughout your treatment.

Your provider will review Invisalign’s proposal and make any necessary tweaks before finalizing the plan. Then Invisalign will create a series of aligners that straighten teeth. As part of the treatment plan, you will receive a ClinCheck image and video that depict each tooth movement.

Now you are probably wondering how Invisalign works, and will Invisalign work for you? How do those clear aligners move your teeth?

Invisalign captures a three-dimensional image of your teeth and creates a plan to subtly move each tooth over the course of your treatment. Each clear aligner moves teeth ever so slightly. When you begin treatment you’ll receive a set of aligners that don’t straighten teeth. The first set helps you get used to the Invisalign process.

Invisalign Aligners

The subsequent clear aligners will slowly shift teeth into their projected places. After one or two weeks, you will switch to a new set, which will subtly move your teeth again. Your teeth will continue to move ever so slightly with each new tray. Treatment will end when you don’t need any further movements.

To get your teeth to move, you must be a vigilant Invisalign patient and keep your trays in for roughly twenty-two hours each day. The trays will not work if you don’t keep them in your mouth. Also, your teeth will try to slide back into their old positions if you don’t wear your trays often enough.

To avoid an extra-long Invisalign experience, you must wear your Invisalign trays as directed . If you don’t, your teeth won’t move as expected, and you’ll have to extend the timeline for your treatment. Without near-constant wear, you won’t get the Invisalign results you are expecting.

How Long Does Invisalign Take?

The average treatment time according to Invisalign is between 12 to 18 months. I’ve spoken to a lot of Invisalign patients and their initial Invisalign estimates ranged between 9 and 18 months. Though in reality, no one I met finished in the projected amount of time.

In fact, everyone I know spent an additional six to nine months wearing them. Invisalign says this occurs when your teeth don’t move as projected.

During the consultation, my orthodontist provided a ten-month estimate. I wore the first set of trays for slightly less than one year.

Then I moved to the second set of aligners because one of my teeth did not move as expected. That resulted in another two months of Invisalign.

I think each case is unique, but for the most part, the timeline for Invisalign seems to move forward and not back. I’ve never met anyone who finished treatment earlier than expected. Those people may exist; I just haven’t met them.

To avoid a bad Invisalign experience, make certain to pay attention to how well your trays fit. If you notice a problem, schedule an appointment to see your Invisalign provider. If your teeth stop tracking, you may need further refinements, which will lengthen your overall treatment time.

How Do I Know If Invisalign Is Working?

If your teeth continue to track and your trays are snug and form-fitting, the Invisalign system is working. Aligners must remain tight against your teeth. If you begin to notice gaps between the bottom of your teeth and the tray, it means some of your teeth aren’t moving as expected.

These tiny pockets of space will grow larger and larger as you continue to switch to future trays. Sometimes your provider will ask you to wear a previous tray until your tooth catches up. Other times they will move on and address the issue with refinement trays.

This typically happens for one of two reasons. Either you didn’t wear your trays the projected twenty-two hours per day, or you have a stubborn tooth that is difficult to move. Invisalign requires due diligence, to get the most out of your treatment you need to wear your Invisalign aligners as much as you can.

The majority of negative Invisalign reviews mention crooked teeth, improper alignment, jaw pain, cavities, black triangles and the unexpected length of time it takes to complete the Invisalign journey . If your teeth don’t track as expected, you will wear trays for much longer than initially projected.

This is another reason to choose an orthodontist rather than a dentist. A dentist will order more Invisalign trays and hope that your teeth eventually move. This can quickly turn a patient’s one-year Invisalign journey into two or three.

On the other hand, an orthodontist has many different tooth-moving options available to them. If a back tooth doesn’t move, the orthodontist can give up on Invisalign and move on to metal braces that can quickly move that stubborn tooth for you.

I know, I know, you are trying to avoid metal braces, right? But would you rather stay in Invisalign for twice as long or wear traditional braces for a few short months. I’d choose metal braces anytime.

Does Invisalign Hurt?

My Invisalign pain was pretty severe for the first few months. The pain wasn’t intense when a new set was on my teeth, but pulling them off was incredibly painful. Chewing for the first few weeks made me cry.

If you’ve had orthodontic treatment as a child, a new set of Invisalign aligners feels like getting traditional braces tightened.

As the months wore on, I adjusted to the pain. Either that or the movements were more subtle, so the pain was less severe. It does get better with time. I’m now in my second set of refinements, and my teeth haven’t hurt much at all.

In fact, I can a new set of Invisalign aligners off and eat something hard and crunchy without giving it another thought. If you don’t have many movements or attachments, you might not experience much pain.

Invisalign Hurts

If you are considering Invisalign, check out the  Invisalign thread on Reddit . Invisalign reviews vary by patient. Some clients provide glowing reviews of their providers and experience, while others write a long list of grievances.

That’s why I wanted to add my voice to the internet. I wanted to provide an honest Invisalign review that covered every aspect of the process that I encountered.

Some Invisalign clients experience a lot of pain throughout the process, while others only have issues with specific trays.

Unfortunately, there is no way to know what you will feel until you get them. Just know that pain is a real possibility. A lot of patients didn’t realize that they would be in pain. I wasn’t prepared for severe Invisalign pain either.

It helps to go into your treatment plan knowing what to expect. Yes, you might experience severe pain for a few weeks, but it does get better.

Is Invisalign Noticeable?

Okay, now let’s talk about the visibility of Invisalign. If you are choosing Invisalign over standard braces, it’s because you don’t want people to see those bright and shiny metal brackets and wires in your mouth, right? You are searching for a subtle tooth-moving solution to straighten teeth.

Is Invisalign noticeable? Yes. Invisalign is visible, especially if you need many attachments (often referred to as buttons) on your teeth. People will see and notice them.

Think about it this way. In close-up photographs, they will be visible, but in group shots, you don’t see them.

This isn’t a problem as long as you aren’t under the impression that no one will notice your desire for straighter teeth. Invisible braces don’t exist. If you are searching for a virtually invisible solution, you will be disappointed. Invisalign is less noticable than traditional braces, but you can see them when standing close.

My Dentist Told Me To Eat With Invisalign

Here is another thing you don’t realize about Invisalign until you get them. Eating becomes a real pain.

When I first thought about getting Invisalign, I turned to friends for advice. One friend said, “my dentist told me to eat with Invisalign.” Eating with Invisalign isn’t possible. You can’t eat with the trays on. They are plastic and uncomfortable. Not to mention you risk breaking the trays or causing damage to them.

I don’t know what kind of dentist says you can eat with Invisalign, but they are wrong. Food would get into all of the nooks and crannies, and quite frankly, it would be gross. If your dentist tells you this it’s time to search for a new one!

Eating with Invisalign

So if you can’t eat with Invisalign, what do you do? You take them out, but you can only spend two hours a day without them. So you have to rush every meal.

It takes five minutes to brush and floss your teeth after you’re finished. You will brush your teeth three times a day. That means you will spend at least fifteen minutes in the bathroom each day.

If you spend fifteen minutes going to the bathroom and brushing your teeth, you have less than two hours to eat per day. That may seem like a decent amount of time, but think about how long it takes to receive two courses in a restaurant or to wait a few minutes after dinner to eat dessert.

Do you know what’s really hard about Invisalign? You can’t taste your food while you cook it. Imagine cooking a delicious meal and not being able to season it appropriately. You can’t figure out if you need more salt because you can’t take your Invisalign out for just a second to taste it and then pop them back in.

You can’t do that because you have to brush your teeth again every time you take your aligners out. And if you taste while you cook, you will have to rush to eat to meet the twenty-two-hour rule.

Snacking is out of the question and mindless eating will become a thing of the past. It’s just not worth it to brush and floss for a small meal, so in the beginning, I only ate two meals a day. My teeth hurt so much that it was easier to turn away food, but I was constantly hungry.

Invisalign will radically change the way you eat. You will find yourself hungry at parties but unwilling to eat. It’s a lot of effort to brush after every meal. When you eat, you will spend the whole time watching the clock to know exactly how many minutes you can spare before popping them back in.

Eventually I began intermittent fasting. I would eat during a very small window of time and then fast for 15 to 16 hours a day.

Eating With Invisalign: The Invisalign Diet

That brings me to the Invisalign Diet. If you’ve ever wanted to lose weight and have your teeth look straight, then Invisalign might be suitable for you. I’m only half kidding.

As I mentioned above, you will not snack if you have Invisalign. You will not even want to eat three meals a day. When you eat, you will scarf down your food so you can put your aligners back in. In other words, eating with Invisalign is an absolute pain.

Unfortunately, plaque buildup and cavities can occur even if you brush and floss rigorously. Oral hygiene is crucial during Invisalign treatment.

I find myself limiting sugar a lot. Two bites of chocolate cake aren’t worth three new fillings!

How to Clean Invisalign?

Having Invisalign is like a glimpse into old age. I can now picture myself taking out my dentures and popping them into a big mug of bubbly, green cleaner.

I keep a mug on the counter specifically for my Invisalign trays, along with an extra-large box of Polident three-minute cleaner. Any time I eat, I drop the clear aligners into that mug and throw in half a Polident.

It helps to keep my Invisalign clean and clear, though it’s important to note that I never drink anything other than clean, pure water when they are in.

I know some folks drink beer or other beverages, but I a too prone to cavities to risk that stuff sitting on my teeth while my aligners are on.

If I’m out somewhere, I place my aligners in the case and brush them with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste before putting them back in.

Invisalign makes me avoid eating away from home. It’s another reason why I feel like I’m on the Invisalign diet. It’s not particularly pleasant to brush your teeth in a public restroom. I don’t want to use the sink water to clean my brush, and I don’t want any part of my toothbrush to touch the sink. If I can avoid eating out, I do.

Invisalign Black Triangles

Invisalign brochures typically show bright white, perfectly aligned teeth surrounded by pink gums. Unfortunately, this is not always the result.

More often than not, gums can’t form between overlapping teeth. When those crowded teeth are straightened, black triangles form between the newly straightened teeth.

If your teeth are triangular black triangles are more likely to form. When teeth are rectangular, they can touch each other and sit side-by-side in your mouth without showing any unwanted space.

Unfortunately, triangular teeth only touch at the tips. As you traverse to the gum line, the teeth no longer touch, and black triangles appear. These gaps appear between teeth and between the tooth and the gum.

IPR for Black Triangles

Treatment may include interproximal reduction (IPR), which involves shaving the sides of your teeth so the teeth can touch again. Dental bonding and papilla injections can also be used to fill in the missing spaces.

Some patients refuse IPR. The thought of grinding down perfectly good teeth doesn’t sit well with everyone. If you are nervous ask about this when your orthodontist discusses your plan for treatment.

While I realized black triangles might be a slight possibility, I wasn’t aware of the extra work or maintenance involved in maintaining these ‘fixes’ throughout my lifetime.

For the time being, I’ve decided not to fix the small black triangles that have formed between my lower teeth. My retainers are still pushing my teeth together ever so slightly, so I’ll see how things look when I receive my permanent ones.

My Teeth Aren’t Perfect After Invisalign

Update:  My black triangles got larger after treatment finished. The spaces between the teeth in the bottom-front of my mouth are the worst, but they are not visible when I smile.

I would encourage you to ask your provider about black triangles. Some don’t like to perform IPR, so this is something you should discuss in advance. It’s perfectly understandable to feel unhappy about Invisalign if black triangles form. No one wants perfectly straight teeth with dark triangles between them.

Your provider can’t guarantee that these won’t show up, but they can tell you how likely they are and how to deal with them when and if they do.

Invisalign Retainer – The Fun Never Ends

In a perfect world, when you finish all of your trays, your Invisalign journey will be over, right? Well, kind of. When your treatment plan is complete, the orthodontist will make an Invisalign retainer for you. You will wear it for roughly twenty-two hours a day for a few weeks or months. Then you switch to wearing it only at night.

The retainer is essential. It ensures that your teeth don’t revert to their original places in your mouth. And after all of the pain and not eating, you will never want to go through this experience again.

So you will be more than happy to wear that retainer for the rest of your life!

Invisalign is Worth It

When former Invisalign users saw my aligners, they often shared their stories. They told me how long they had to wear them and how difficult it was to avoid snacking for months and sometimes years.

Their stories are all different. Some had gum issues, some had bite issues, and most had crooked teeth. As we talked, I ask them all the same question: “ Is Invisalign worth it ?” While I wore aligners, they all told me it was.

My Invisalign journey is now over, and I agree! Invisalign is worth it. My teeth are straighter, and my bite feels perfect!

Will My Teeth Look Perfect After Invisalign?

Are you expecting perfect teeth after Invisalign is over? If so, you are not alone. Most patients expect perfect smiles.

Did I achieve a perfect smile? No. My teeth aren’t perfect after Invisalign. One of my bottom teeth is ever so slightly crooked after treatment. Does it line up perfectly with my other bottom teeth? No, it doesn’t. Can anyone else tell? Doubtfully.

Did tiny black triangles open up between a few of my bottom teeth? Yup, I have those too. Does anyone notice? I doubt it.

Invisalign Reality

Do you dream of having a perfect smile? If so, can your Invisalign reality match those expectations? Will your smile be as glamorous as you hoped? Will your Invisalign results be everything you imagined?

Honestly, probably not. After staring at your teeth day in and day out for weeks, months, and possibly years, you will become hyper-aware of how your teeth look. You will also stare at other people’s teeth to see if they are straight, white, and beautiful.

But here’s the truth, very few people are staring intensely at your smile. While your teeth may not be perfect, most other people aren’t as critical of your smile as you are.

Your Invisalign expectation may not match your Invisalign reality, but your smile should look a whole lot better than when you started. If you are searching for perfection, you might not find it with Invisalign.

Of course, your satisfaction depends on what type of Invisalign results you are expecting. Invisalign won’t change the shape or color of your teeth. If you are searching for perfection, keep in mind that most movie stars implore other dental techniques to create those pearly white smiles.

Does Invisalign Work?

Since this is an honest review, I wanted to include extra details about my Invisalign experience. Invisalign is an alternative to braces, but before signing up, I wondered if it would work. I wondered if Invisalign was legit. Could those clear aligners move all of my teeth the way the ClinCheck video projected?

The answer is not exactly. Orthodontists have a much easier time making some tooth movements with traditional braces. While Invisalign moved most of my teeth, it could not move one of them as quickly as braces.

Does Invisalign always work? In my case, it worked for most of my teeth, but one of my back molars was severely rotated, and Invisalign was unable to turn it properly into the correct position. Even though I wore my aligners twenty-two hours a day, one of my teeth failed to track.

Invisalign Versus Braces

My orthodontist said we could try another round of refinements or simply place three metal braces on my teeth to move that one stubborn tooth more quickly.

I opted for braces because they couldn’t be seen when I smiled. The tooth moved in just three weeks. Invisalign may have worked, but it would have taken months compared to traditional braces. In this case, Invisalign was inferior to braces.

Invisalign works for many patients, but in this case, braces were needed and preferred.

Some patients believe Invisalign is a scam, but it can work for you. It depends on what adjustments need to be made to your teeth. In some cases, braces are simply better than Invisalign. The right orthodontist can help you decide what’s right for you.

Have you used Invisalign? If so, how was your experience? Did Invisalign work for you? If you had to do it all over again, would you?

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127 thoughts on “Invisalign Reviews (2023): The Good, Bad & Ugly Reality”

How disheartening to read so many stories where Invisalign was not a good decision. It’s my understanding (now and too late for my case), that originally Invisalign restricted its packages to orthos only and then allowed dentists to perform this. I trusted my dentist and completely regretted it. The sad news that you’ll learn quickly if something goes wrong, is that Invis is very hands off. Because the agreement is with your provider NOT Invis (despite it being their product). If I could do this again, I would choose an ortho that way if it goes haywire, I could at least switch to traditional braces. My Ivisalign treatment was costly, ended up taking twice as long as estimated, and ruined my bite.

I’m sorry to read this. I didn’t know Invisalign originally restricted its product to orthodontists. Honestly that makes a lot of sense. I hope that you are able to resolve your issues and improve your bite.

I saw my dentist as I need a partial denture. I was told I needed the Invisalign first, but I disagree. On that visit, I was told I needed both the upper and lower. I don’t agree. I am seeing the dentist again next week to discuss this issue. It felt rushed, and I felt uncomfortable as I need teeth…. I have never been told by another dentist that my bite was off or my teeth were crooked. I signed finance papers, and I have an appointment in 2 weeks for them to be ready. I think these should have stayed with the orthodontists…

I am surprised that dentists are able to provide Invisalign to their patients.

Yes they can. It is just a little course that they have to take in order to get invisalign certificate.

I had very bad invisalign treatment. My bite is missed aligned, I lost one tooth. And one tooth has been damaged permanently (bone loss). I can not replace missing tooth with implant as the space is insufficient (my dentist did not move teeth properly to create normal space). I can not eat my food properly, I can bite it in small peace’s and sometimes I chocked on my food due to incorrect bite that my dentist created. I end up having more problems that I started with. At the end I find out that the dentist who done my treatment is general dentist not an orthodontist. I personally think general dentist must be banned from doing such a treatment. Also I met a lot of people that their invisalign was bad also. People please do not get it! My worst decision ever!!!!!!!!!

I would recommend regular braces, I got Invisalign, and my teeth literally shifted back to their original placement. Wasted all that money to not be happy. Don’t always listen to them when they say you’d be a good candidate or whatever do your research. I paid so much money to in the end start researching regular braces.

I had Invisalign treatment through an orthodontist on the US west coast about 7 years ago. I had no problem. He provided me with a retainers. Again, no problems. Three years later or so, I moved to the east coast. One of my retainers broke, and my dentist here I saw provides Invisalign treatment, so I ordered new retainers from him in January 2023. After wearing them for a few weeks, my mouth and tongue was burning. The insides of my mouth got very sensitive, and my cheeks and chin were kind of numb. A few weeks after that, I stopped wearing the retainers. After two days, my symptoms were about 80% gone. But still, 3 months later, my gums are sensitive, and my tongue and the inside of my mouth is very sensitive to irritation to foods, and sometimes, my tongue becomes numb. Buyer beware. I will never put plastic in my mouth again.

Thank you so much for this, I am in Australia and have spoken to a number of people about getting Invisalign. Those I have spoken to have loved their dentist treatment and have had great results. But your blog has really helped to understand some of the less noted things like the “invis dite” and pain. I thought these might be issues, but it was great to have such a frank discussion. Fortunately my Helth cover will cover half of the cost but these ae still important things to note and comprehend as my dentist really did not discuss these.

I’m so glad to hear that there are still good things to say about Invisalign! I’ve been wearing them for about two years now and I’ve never been happier. The only downside is that it’s a bit expensive,

I started with Invisalign when I was about 60. For various reasons, it took about twice as long as they suggest. In the end, the crooked tooth was about 90% straight. Not perfect, but better. Fast forward a few years — I have had many issues with my molars. I suspect it’s connected to the Invisalign. I’ve needed 2 root canals, and 2 crowns, and finally I had to have them both extracted and now I have 1 implant. On the diagonally opposite side, I have needed root canals. Would I have done it if I’d known this? Maybe. But it would have been good to have been aware of the potential issues and additional costs.

I read this review and it is good but it does seem one biased. What is not taken into consideration is the risk of posterior open bite issues that are very common with the aligners and that there are orthodontists who do prefer the traditional method. I am now at 18 months with my aligners and was advised that the process is about 18 to 20 months, non of the pros and cons were discussed perhaps the only pro was the esthetics during the treatment. My teeth needed some alignment for the front and pre-molar. It should be the responsibility of the orthodontist to relay to a patient the risks and benefits of the aligners. My front teeth are aligned but not centered and visually apparent and there is ~4 mm of posterior open bite make it it difficult to chew. The gum line appears to have resided further. I have completed 17 months and it looks like there is another 12 months to go to also correct the front alignment. The orthodontist appointments were also sparse so no corrections were possible. In hind-sight, I should have opted for the traditional method to avoid a prolonged treatment. I recommend do your research of the pros and cons more thoroughly and make your decision. I regret, that I should have gone the traditional way.

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My Invisalign Journey

After considering my options..., i have decided to go ahead with invisalign treatment at the age of 37 to address the widening gap between my two front teeth and my worsening tmj condition..

While the treatment may be costly, I believe it is necessary in order to address these issues and improve my oral health.

See my After Photo

This is my monthly progress:, please note that i was wearing my invisalign aligners for an average of 20-22 hours per day., this photo was taken right after the dentist removed the bonding cement and polishing my teeth:, the process of wearing aligners wasn't always easy, but i was determined to see it through to the end..

I am so glad that I didn't skip any of my 40 trays, because now my diastema is completely gone and my jaws feel much more comfortable.

Begin Your Invisalign Journey Today.