Everything you want to know about Invisalign

What is Invisalign and how does it work? 
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment alternative to braces that uses custom made invisible aligners to help straighten teeth. Your Invisalign provider will scan your teeth and use 3D digital mapping technology to customize your step-by-step treatment plan based on the direction your teeth need to move to achieve your best, most beautiful smile. You’ll be prescribed a sequence of aligner trays that fit snugly over your teeth, which will be custom made just for you. Invisalign trays move your teeth by applying gentle, constant force to gradually shift their positions in your mouth. As this happens your gum tissue will also reform around each tooth as it moves.

Can any dentist provide Invisalign? How do I find the best provider for me?

Not all dentists are trained to provide Invisalign treatment. Neesh Dental is a Gold Plus Invisalign provider in Saskatoon, which means we have a high level of training and experience.

If I am considering cosmetic dental work, why should I start with Invisalign? 

We often recommend a patient go through Invisalign first before getting any other cosmetic work done because Invisalign can correct many cosmetic concerns and may eliminate or reduce the need for more intensive cosmetic work. In many cases, other cosmetic work won’t be as effective or long lasting if the teeth are misaligned.

Does Invisalign hurt? 

Many patients report experiencing mild discomfort on the first day or two of each new set of trays when they are tightest over the teeth, while others report no discomfort at all during the treatment.

How long will my Invisalign treatment take? 

The duration of your treatment will depend on the complexity of your case. Typical Invisalign treatments can last anywhere between 6 and 14 months.

How many trays will I have to use, and how often will I change trays?
A typical treatment will use between 20 and 30 trays, with 1 – 2 weeks on each tray. More complex cases may use 40 – 50 trays. You may begin to notice your teeth looking different as early as the 3rd set of trays.

Will I have to visit my dental clinic for check ups and/or cleanings throughout my treatment? 
One of the benefits of Invisalign over braces is fewer appointments, however keeping up with your regular dental check ups and hygiene appointments while you’re in Invisalign treatment is very important!

How much does Invisalign cost?
Each case is unique, and depending on how many sets of trays are needed for your specific treatment plan, the total cost may be roughly equivalent to the cost of braces.

Is Invisalign covered by dental insurance?
Many of the major dental insurance plans cover partial or full orthodontic treatments including braces and Invisalign. Consult with your insurance provider to find out the details of your dental coverage.



If I don’t have insurance coverage for Invisalign treatment, do you have payment plan options?

Yes, our clinic offers payment plans for Invisalign. Get in touch with us for more details!

What happens if I lose, break, or forget to bring my trays on a trip? 
If your aligner trays become lost or broken, contact your Invisalign provider immediately. Replacement trays can be ordered and should be done as soon as possible to avoid setbacks in your treatment. Going without your trays for a short time may not have any major consequences, but there is always a risk that they won’t fit if you miss days. After missing a day or two, you might still be able to wear your current trays with some extra tightness and discomfort, or you may need to move back to the previous set of trays. When you are missing your trays for any reason, the first step is to call your Invisalign provider so they can assess your unique situation and recommend the best course of action.

Can I smoke while wearing Invisalign trays? 
We recommend against smoking while wearing your Invisalign trays as they can become stained, which makes them less transparent and more noticeable.

Why do I have to brush after every meal when I’m using Invisalign? 

Before you put your aligner trays back in after a meal, it’s important to rinse any food residue left on your teeth so it doesn’t get trapped against your teeth and gums under the aligner trays. This is essential for the prevention of gingivitis and enamel erosion that leads to tooth decay. Any dark coloured food residue left on your teeth can also stain your trays.

Is it okay to leave them off at night?
No, you need to wear your aligner trays for a minimum of 20 hours per day in order to get the best results. Similarly, if you only wear them when you sleep, you will not see the same results as if you wear them 20 – 22 hours per day.

After my Invisalign treatment is complete, will I need to wear a retainer?
In many cases, a retainer is recommended to prevent the teeth from moving back after orthodontic treatments, and is considered part of the Invisalign treatment plan. Consult with your Invisalign provider, who may recommend a Vivera retainer made custom for you using the same technology as your Invisalign trays. 

How long will I need a retainer after my Invisalign treatment? 
It depends on your situation, but most Invisalign users start with full time retainer use for a period of time (think of them as your final Invisalign tray) before gradually reducing your retainer use to night-time only.

NEESH Dental is Saskatoon’s Gold Plus Invisalign Provider

Having consistently provided 25 or more successful Invisalign treatments per year, we’re a Saskatoon Invisalign provider with Gold Plus status. Ask us about Invisalign for your teeth at your next dental cleaning and exam, or schedule you Invisalign consultation today!