How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign works by using a series of custom-made, removable clear aligners to gradually move your teeth into their planned positions. Each set of aligners is designed to make specific tooth movements, and you typically wear them for about 20–22 hours a day, removing them to eat, drink anything other than water, brush, and floss. Your dentist or orthodontist monitors your progress throughout treatment and provides new aligners as your teeth move.

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign does not use metal brackets and wires. Instead, treatment uses digital scans, customized treatment planning, and a series of clear aligners to gradually straighten your teeth.

What Happens During an Invisalign Consultation?

Your Invisalign treatment starts with an evaluation by a dentist or orthodontic provider. During the consultation, the provider will examine your teeth and bite and determine whether clear aligners are appropriate for your needs.

At 7 to 7 Dental & Orthodontics, the process will include an iTero digital scan. Instead of traditional dental impressions, an iTero scanner creates a 3D digital image of your teeth. That digital model can then be used to help plan your Invisalign treatment.

The provider will also discuss your treatment goals, what your treatment may involve, and what you can expect throughout the process.

How Does Invisalign Move Your Teeth?

Invisalign aligners are designed to apply controlled pressure to specific areas of your teeth. Each aligner is slightly different, so your teeth gradually move as you progress from one set to the next.

The provider uses your 3D model and treatment-planning software to map out the planned tooth movements. The aligners are then made specifically for your treatment plan.

Some patients also need SmartForce attachments. These are small, tooth-colored shapes bonded to certain teeth that give the aligners additional points of contact to help guide specific movements. Not everyone needs attachments, and your provider will determine whether they are appropriate for your treatment.

How Long Do You Wear Invisalign Each Day?

For Invisalign to work as planned, aligners are generally worn 20–22 hours per day. You remove them when eating, drinking anything besides water, and brushing and flossing your teeth.

Because Invisalign aligners are removable, you can continue your normal oral hygiene routine throughout treatment. The important part is putting your aligners back in after eating and cleaning your teeth.

Consistently wearing your aligners is also important because your treatment plan is based on your teeth moving according to a specific schedule.

Does Invisalign Hurt?

It is normal to feel some pressure or mild discomfort when you begin wearing a new set of aligners. The aligners are applying pressure to gradually move your teeth, so you may notice tightness or soreness, particularly when switching to a new set.

This feeling is generally temporary. If you experience significant or persistent discomfort, talk with your dentist or orthodontist.

How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?

There is no single Invisalign treatment timeline that applies to everyone. Treatment time depends on your teeth, bite, treatment goals, and how consistently you wear your aligners.

Some Invisalign cases can be completed in as little as six months, while others take longer. Your provider can give you a more personalized estimate after evaluating your teeth and creating your treatment plan.

Following your provider's instructions and wearing your aligners for the recommended amount of time each day can help keep your treatment on track.

What Happens After Invisalign Treatment?

Once your teeth have reached their planned positions, your Invisalign treatment is not quite finished. Your provider will typically recommend retainers to help maintain your new smile.

Retainers are important because teeth can naturally shift over time. Your provider will explain what type of retainer you need and how often you should wear it after treatment.

Is Invisalign Right for Everyone?

Invisalign can be used to treat many orthodontic concerns, but it is not the right treatment for every patient or every case.

The best way to find out whether Invisalign is appropriate for you is to have your teeth and bite evaluated by a dentist or orthodontist. Orthodontic treatment should be planned and monitored by a dental professional based on your individual needs.

Invisalign at 7 to 7 Dental & Orthodontics

At 7 to 7 Dental & Orthodontics, Invisalign treatment combines digital technology with personalized care. Our offices use iTero scanners to create digital 3D scans that can be used when planning Invisalign treatment.

We are also a Diamond Plus Invisalign provider, and Invisalign consultations are available to help determine whether clear aligners are a good option for your smile.

With 7 to 7 Dental & Orthodontics, you can also take advantage of flexible scheduling with dental care available 7 days a week. Invisalign treatment is available for patients looking for a convenient way to work toward a straighter smile while keeping their regular routine.

Interested in Invisalign? Schedule a FREE consultation with 7 to 7 Dental & Orthodontics to find out if clear aligners are right for you.