Invisalign® for Teens
Invisalign® is a modern, discreet approach to orthodontic care that straightens teeth using a series of custom, removable clear aligners. Designed to fit daily life with minimal disruption, this method offers a predictable path to improved alignment without the visibility or maintenance of traditional braces.
Clear aligner therapy relies on precise, incremental adjustments. Each aligner in the series is slightly different, applying controlled pressure to specific teeth so they shift toward their intended positions over time. These small, planned movements accumulate into meaningful changes to alignment and occlusion.
The process begins with a digital scan or impression to capture the current state of your bite. From there, a treatment plan is mapped out in three dimensions so each aligner stage supports the next. Because the plan predicts movement before treatment begins, clinicians can visualize progress and make adjustments as needed.
Unlike fixed appliances, aligners are removable, which simplifies oral hygiene and eating. Patients replace their aligners on a prescribed schedule—typically every one to two weeks—so that tooth movement proceeds in a steady, controlled fashion.
Proper wear time is essential: consistent daily use ensures the planned forces remain effective and that each stage achieves the expected outcome. Regular check-ins with your clinician help monitor progress and address any concerns during treatment.
Invisalign® for Teens
Invisalign® for Brides
Invisalign® for Travelers
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FAQs
Invisalign® vs Braces
Invisalign® vs Direct-To-Consumer Aligners
Is Invisalign® Right For Me?
Invisalign® Costs
Digital tools have transformed aligner therapy into a highly predictable form of orthodontics. Modern planning software creates a visual roadmap of your treatment, showing each intermediate position of your teeth from beginning to end. This allows both patient and clinician to understand goals and timelines before the first aligner is provided.
During planning, clinicians evaluate tooth movement in the context of overall bite function. Complex movements—such as rotations, extrusions, or corrections to the bite—are carefully sequenced so forces remain biologically appropriate and safe. When needed, small attachments or elastics can complement aligners to achieve specific results.
Because planning is digital, adjustments can be made quickly if treatment isn’t progressing as expected. Your provider can refine the plan and order additional aligners to continue toward the desired outcome without restarting the entire process.
Clinical oversight remains critical: while the technology defines the pathway, a trained clinician monitors health, checks fit, and confirms that tooth movement aligns with the plan. This teamwork between patient, clinician, and technology is what yields consistent, reliable results.
Initial evaluation begins with a thorough exam and a conversation about goals. Your provider will review your dental history, examine your bite, and take the digital records needed to create the treatment plan. This consultation establishes a clear path and sets expectations for how the process will unfold.
After your custom aligners arrive, you’ll receive instructions on wearing and caring for them. Typical guidance includes daily wear of around 20–22 hours and switching to the next aligner in the series according to your clinician’s schedule. Most patients experience only mild discomfort during the first few days after switching aligners as teeth begin to respond to the new forces.
Follow-up appointments are scheduled to confirm fit and movement rather than to perform extensive adjustments. These visits are usually brief and efficient, focused on monitoring progress and ensuring oral health remains good throughout treatment.
Because aligners are removed for eating and cleaning, patients retain normal routines with less interference. Good home care—regular brushing, flossing, and cleaning of the aligners—helps maintain oral health and keeps progress on track.
One of the immediate advantages of clear aligners is their discreet appearance. For many adults and professionals, the near-invisibility of aligners is an important consideration when choosing orthodontic care. This allows patients to pursue alignment while maintaining personal and professional confidence.
Aligners also simplify oral hygiene. Since they are removable, brushing and flossing remain straightforward—reducing the risk of plaque buildup and gum irritation that can accompany fixed brackets. Improved cleaning access supports healthier gums and enamel during treatment.
Beyond aesthetics and hygiene, correcting alignment improves bite function and distribution of forces across the teeth. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, can reduce uneven wear, and may alleviate stress on supporting structures, contributing to long-term dental health.
Invisalign® is suitable for a wide range of alignment issues, from mild crowding and spacing to more complex corrections when combined with appropriate clinical techniques. Your provider will determine whether clear aligner therapy is the right approach for your specific needs.
Once active aligner stages are complete, a retention phase helps preserve the new tooth positions. Retainers—custom devices designed to be worn as instructed—are the standard method for protecting the investment of time and effort in orthodontic care. Your clinician will recommend a retention schedule that fits your situation.
Good habits support long-term stability. Regular dental checkups and attentive oral hygiene help prevent issues that might compromise alignment, such as gum disease or tooth loss. Wearing retainers according to guidance is the most effective way to prevent relapse as surrounding tissues adapt to the new tooth positions.
Patients can expect periodic reviews after treatment to confirm stability. These follow-ups allow your provider to address minor changes early and advise on corrective steps if needed. With proper retention and care, most patients enjoy their aligned smiles for many years.
Bayside Dental Group’s clinicians combine clinical training with modern aligner techniques to guide patients through treatment and retention, offering care that respects both function and appearance.
During your first visit, a comprehensive exam and digital records provide the foundation for a personalized treatment plan. We evaluate alignment, bite relationships, and oral health to determine the best approach.
A fast, accurate digital scan captures the current state of your teeth. Advanced planning software then generates a visual preview of the proposed progression, helping you see potential results before treatment begins.
Your aligners are manufactured to match the specifics of your plan. Materials and design focus on comfort, fit, and effective force delivery for the intended tooth movements.
From the first fitting through retention, clinical oversight ensures the plan progresses safely and effectively. Your provider will be available to answer questions and make adjustments if necessary.
*Invisalign® is a registered trademark of Align Technology, Inc.
Choosing clear aligner therapy is a decision that combines clinical planning, patient commitment, and modern technology. If you’d like to learn how Invisalign® can fit into your life and help you reach your smile goals, contact Bayside Dental Group for more information and to schedule a consultation. Our team is ready to answer your questions and guide you through the process.
There are many options for patients who want to avoid metal braces! The most popular alternative orthodontic treatment is Invisalign®, which are clear plastic aligners designed to straighten teeth. After an examination of your teeth, your dentist will determine which option is best suited to your wants and needs.
According to the Invisalign® website, the cost for treatment is approximately the same as the cost for metal braces. A portion of this cost may be covered by your insurance. Please call us to set up a consultation and discuss potential payment plan options.
The first step is to schedule a consultation with your doctor, so they can devise a treatment plan that is best suited to your individual dental needs. Once approved, you will receive your first set of aligners. Your doctor will then regularly monitor the movement of your teeth and new aligners will be ordered according to the progress made in your treatment plan.
Invisalign® aligners are made of clear, flexible plastic. The company received a patent for this material – SmartTrack® – to be used exclusively for Invisalign treatment purposes. These aligners are FDA approved and nearly invisible!
Your doctor will give you an estimate regarding how long your Invisalign® treatment should take, which will depend on your specific needs. The average length of time for treatment is approximately 12-18 months. However, some patients may see results far sooner. Remember to wear your aligners exactly as instructed by your doctor to obtain the best results.
Your doctor will most likely recommend that you wear retainers following your Invisalign® treatment. This is a precaution that will prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positioning. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions exactly to ensure long-lasting results.
You must wear your aligners for up to 22 hours daily. You may remove them for eating, drinking and regular oral hygiene.
No. Unlike braces, you may eat whatever you like as long as you remove the aligners before eating. Prior to placing the aligners back on, it is important to brush your teeth and the aligners after you eat.
Like any orthodontic treatment, there is a short adjustment period. The more you speak with the aligners on, the quicker you will adjust.
There will be some pressure and minor discomfort for a day or two after each initial insertion. This is a sign that your teeth are moving sequentially into their final position.
It is recommended that you remove your aligners prior to chewing gum as the gum will stick to the aligners.
We discourage smoking with aligners as the cigarette smoke will tend to discolor them.
Brushing them with toothpaste will keep them fresh and clean.
Regular office visits are every five to six weeks. This will ensure that your Invisalign treatment is progressing as planned.
All orthodontic patients are instructed to wear their retainers at night indefinitely. Sleeping with your retainers in at night will ensure a healthy bite and maintain the new position of your teeth.
Yes, if their teeth, including second molars, have grown in completely.
