Invisalign FAQ
Dentist Lacey, WA
 Are you looking for a discreet and convenient way to improve the alignment of your teeth? Invisalign® clear aligners may be the perfect solution. At Karl Hoffman Dentistry in Lacey, WA, we provide this modern orthodontic treatment for patients who want to enhance their smiles without the visibility and restrictions of traditional metal braces. Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible, removable, and comfortable, making them a popular choice among teens, adults, and busy professionals alike.
Whether you're preparing for an event, heading to work, or just looking to improve your oral health, Invisalign offers the flexibility and confidence you need throughout your treatment.
How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?
One of the most common questions patients ask is in regard to how long will it take to see results. The answer varies from person to person, but most Invisalign treatments are completed within 12 to 18 months. For mild cases, it can take as little as six months. For more complex alignment issues, treatment may extend up to two years. Overall, treatment with Invisalign tends to be shorter than with metal braces.
Several factors determine the duration of your Invisalign treatment:
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The type and severity of your bite or alignment issues
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How consistently you wear your aligners each day
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Your age and how easily your teeth shift into new positions |
During your consultation at our Lacey, WA office, we will take digital scans of your teeth and create a 3D treatment plan customized to your needs. This advanced technology allows us to project how your smile will evolve and estimate your timeline accurately.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign works by using a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners designed to gradually shift your teeth into their ideal positions. Each aligner is made from a smooth, BPA-free thermoplastic material that fits snugly over your teeth, applying gentle and consistent pressure. Patients find that Invisalign aligners are much more comfortable than metal brackets and wires.
The controlled movement of your teeth with Invisalign encourages your teeth to shift slightly with each new set. Typically, you'll wear each set of aligners for about two weeks before switching to the next in the series, with each set building on the progress of the last.
Over time, this step-by-step approach allows for precise adjustments without the need for metal brackets or wires. Throughout your treatment, our dentist will monitor your progress and ensure everything is moving as planned.
To achieve the best results, Invisalign aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day. Most patients only remove them for meals, drinking anything other than water, and during oral hygiene routines.
Even small lapses in wear time can affect your progress and delay your results. The aligners work by applying consistent, gentle pressure to shift your teeth, so wearing them as directed is essential.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Invisalign?
Thanks to advancements in aligner technology, Invisalign can now treat a wide range of orthodontic conditions.
At Karl Hoffman Dentistry, we use Invisalign to correct:
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Crowded teeth
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Spaces or gaps between teeth
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Overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites |
The ideal candidate for Invisalign is a teen or adult with fully developed permanent teeth and a commitment to wearing the aligners as prescribed. Good oral hygiene is also important, as clean teeth and aligners support the success of treatment.
While Invisalign is suitable for many patients, some complex bite issues or vertical tooth movements may still require traditional braces. A thorough evaluation by our experienced Invisalign dentist in Lacey will determine whether you're a good match for this treatment.
Can You Eat and Drink With Invisalign?
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign allows you to continue enjoying your favorite foods without restrictions. Because the aligners are removable, you don't have to avoid crunchy, chewy, or sticky foods.
However, you should always remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. Beverages like soda, coffee, or juice can stain the aligners or contribute to tooth decay if trapped underneath the plastic. Hot liquids may even warp the aligners, affecting how they fit.
After eating or drinking, it's best to brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in. If brushing isn't possible right away, rinsing with water can help minimize residue and bacteria until you can brush properly.
How Do You Clean and Care for Invisalign Aligners?
Maintaining your clear aligners is simple, but consistent care is necessary to keep them clean and transparent. Every morning and evening, gently brush your aligners using a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, antibacterial soap. Toothpaste is not recommended, as it can scratch the aligner's surface and make them appear cloudy.
Here are a few key tips to care for your aligners:
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Rinse them with lukewarm water every time you remove them
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Avoid hot water, which can distort their shape
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Store them in their designated case when not in use
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Never wrap them in napkins, which increases the risk of accidentally throwing them away |
Optional cleaning crystals or tablets can be used for a deeper clean, but daily brushing is usually sufficient for keeping them fresh and odor-free.
Why Choose Karl Hoffman Dentistry for Invisalign?
Are you searching for a dental practice that prioritizes your health and well-being? Conveniently located in the Meridian Campus area of Lacey, Karl Hoffman Dentistry is dedicated to helping you achieve your personal oral health goals. We proudly offer general, cosmetic, and restorative dental services to patients in both Lacey and Olympia. Our top priority is helping you maintain a healthy, bright, and beautiful smile. Just as important, we strive to make every visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible. We believe that both goals start with patient education, because understanding the foundations of oral health can help you prevent issues, make informed decisions, and feel confident about your treatment options.
If you're ready to explore how Invisalign can improve your smile and confidence, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team. We can be reached by calling 360-456-7070. We'll evaluate your needs, answer your questions, and help you determine if Invisalign is the right solution for your smile goals. |
