Invisalign in St. Albert

See the Answers to the Questions We Get Asked Most Frequently

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Invisalign FAQs

Here are the answers to our most frequently asked questions.

Invisalign is a modern way to straighten your teeth without metal braces. It uses clear, removable trays that are custom-made to fit your teeth. You wear a series of trays, switching to a new set every 1 to 2 weeks. Each tray gently moves your teeth little by little. You can take them out to eat, drink anything other than water, brush, and floss. Over time, your smile becomes straighter, all without brackets or wires, making it a comfortable and low-stress option for busy families.

The cost of Invisalign varies depending on your smile goals and how complex your case is. Most patients in Canada pay between $3,500 and $8,500, though some simpler cases may be less and more complex ones higher. Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost, and our clinic offers flexible payment plans to fit your family’s budget. Think of Invisalign as an investment in a straighter smile and long-term oral health, something that can boost confidence for years to come.

It depends on your teeth. For mild to moderate alignment, Invisalign is clear, removable, and generally more comfortable than traditional braces. For more complex movements, metal braces may still be the better choice. Our dentists can review your smile and help you choose the option that is safest and most effective for your teeth.

Most Invisalign treatments take 12 to 18 months from the first tray to the last. Mild cases may finish in as little as 6 months, while more complex ones can take up to 24 months. The exact timeline depends on your teeth and how consistently you wear your aligners. During your consultation, we will provide a personalized estimate and plan so you know what to expect.

For the best results, wear your aligners 20 to 22 hours per day. Remove them only to eat, drink anything besides water, brush, or floss. Wearing them less can slow your progress. Occasional removals for sports or special events are fine, but consistency is key. We will help you stay on track to reach your smile goals.

Most patients switch trays every 1 to 2 weeks. Your dentist will give you a schedule that works for your treatment. Each new tray may feel snug at first, which is a good sign your teeth are moving. Switching too early or too late can slow your results, so we will guide you to make it easy and predictable.

Yes, you can drink coffee, but remove your aligners first. Afterward, rinse your trays with lukewarm water and clean them to keep them clear and free from staining. This helps your smile stay bright throughout treatment.

Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water whenever you take them out. Gently brush with a soft toothbrush and a tiny bit of clear, mild soap. For deeper cleaning, soak them weekly in Invisalign cleaning crystals, retainer tablets, or a baking soda and water solution. Avoid hot water, toothpaste, mouthwash, scented soaps, or dishwashers, as these can warp or discolor your trays.

You may feel some mild pressure or soreness, especially when starting a new tray. Most discomfort lasts 1 to 3 days and is usually minor. Your teeth are gently shifting, so some tenderness or cheek irritation is normal at first, but it usually goes away as you get used to your aligners.

Refinements are extra sets of aligners used to fine-tune your smile after the initial treatment. They help if teeth do not move exactly as planned, attachments loosen, or your goals change slightly. Wearing these trays 20 to 22 hours per day and attending your check-ups ensures the best final result. Think of them as the finishing touches for a perfectly polished smile.

Yes, many patients with crowns, bridges, or veneers can still use Invisalign. Your dentist will check that your restorations are stable. Invisalign gently moves your teeth, and in most cases it works safely with crowns. If you have recently had dental work done, your dentist may recommend waiting a few months before starting treatment.

It is natural for teeth to try to shift after Invisalign. Wearing a retainer is key to keeping your smile straight. Invisalign offers Vivera retainers, which are strong, durable, and custom-fit. You will wear them full-time at first, then gradually reduce to nights only. Combined with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, your smile will stay beautiful for years to come.

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If you are looking for a dentist in St. Albert we are accepting new patients at our dental clinic! Contact us today to schedule your first appointment.

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