Invisalign®

Invisalign® offers a contemporary alternative to traditional braces, combining discreet design with predictable biomechanics. Patients seeking a straighter smile often choose clear aligners for their subtle appearance and the freedom they bring to daily routines. This page explains how the system works, what to expect during treatment, and why personalized clinical oversight matters.

How clear aligners move teeth precisely

Clear aligner therapy uses a planned sequence of removable trays to guide teeth from their current positions toward a targeted outcome. Each tray applies gentle, controlled forces that encourage specific tooth movements. Because the movement is staged, clinicians can anticipate and monitor progress at regular intervals, making adjustments when necessary.

Modern workflows rely on digital impressions and three-dimensional treatment planning software. Scans capture detailed tooth and soft-tissue anatomy, allowing clinicians to visualize the complete movement plan before fabrication begins. This lets you see predicted results during your initial consultation and helps your care team identify any clinical limitations up front.

The aligners themselves are made from transparent, medical-grade thermoplastic that fits snugly over teeth. Their low-profile design minimizes visual impact while still delivering clinically meaningful force. Because each tray is worn for a prescribed period, treatment advances in measured steps rather than dramatic shifts, which supports comfort and reduces the need for emergency adjustments.

Practical steps in a typical treatment plan

Treatment begins with a comprehensive evaluation to confirm that aligner therapy is a suitable option. During this visit, your clinician will assess bite relationships, check for underlying dental or periodontal concerns, and capture the digital records needed to move forward. Clear documentation at this stage establishes a safe path for tooth movement.

Once planning is complete, a custom series of aligners is fabricated to match the prescribed sequence. Patients are instructed on the recommended wear schedule—typically most of the day, with brief removals for eating and oral hygiene. Regular follow-up appointments allow the clinician to verify progress and make targeted refinements when required.

Compliance and communication are key to a predictable outcome. Small refinements or additional aligners may be introduced as treatment progresses to fine-tune alignment. At the end of active therapy, retention is important: retainers help maintain tooth positions and protect the investment in alignment over the long term.

See the technology in action: an overview of digital planning and custom aligner fabrication.

What clinical issues aligners can — and can’t — address

Clear aligners are effective for many common alignment concerns, including mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and some bite discrepancies. They can also be used in conjunction with other restorative or orthodontic techniques when a combined approach yields a better long-term outcome.

Complex skeletal problems, severe rotations, or significant vertical discrepancies may require additional orthodontic mechanics or traditional fixed appliances. A careful diagnostic workup helps determine whether aligner therapy alone will achieve the desired result or whether alternative strategies are advisable.

Every case is individual. During your evaluation, the treatment team will explain the biologic factors that influence movement—such as root position, bone support, and periodontal health—and describe how those elements inform the recommended plan. This transparent clinical reasoning helps set realistic expectations from the outset.

Living with aligners: daily care and comfort tips

Because aligners are removable, they simplify routine oral hygiene—brushing and flossing can be done without workaround tools. Rinsing trays in cool water and brushing them gently with a soft brush helps maintain clarity and hygiene. Avoid hot water or abrasive cleaners that could warp the plastic.

Aligners are designed for comfort, but mild soreness or pressure is normal when switching to a new tray. Over-the-counter analgesics and short rest periods during the first day or two can help. If fit problems or persistent discomfort occur, contact your provider so adjustments can be made rather than continuing with ill-fitting trays.

For active lifestyles, plan ahead: keep a small travel case to store aligners when eating, and bring along a toothbrush and floss. When engaging in contact sports, discuss protective options with your care team—custom mouthguards can often be used in a way that protects teeth while preserving the benefits of ongoing aligner therapy.

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Start with a focused clinical review

During the first visit, the clinician evaluates your oral health and outlines whether aligner therapy is an appropriate solution. This visit sets the clinical priorities and ensures that any necessary preparatory care is identified and completed beforehand.

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Receive a personalized digital treatment map

A fast, precise digital scan replaces traditional impressions in most workflows. The scan supports a customized plan that illustrates the sequence of movements, and clinicians use that map to manage expectations and guide clinical decisions throughout care.

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Enjoy aligners crafted to your treatment goals

Manufacturing blends digital data with quality-controlled fabrication to produce aligners tailored to your prescription. The result is a series of trays engineered for fit and progressive tooth movement that respects both biology and comfort.

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Ongoing care from your clinical team

Throughout active treatment you’ll have scheduled check-ins to review progress and receive new trays. These appointments allow your clinician to verify tracking and make conservative refinements when needed to keep your plan on course.

What distinguishes a successful provider-led program

Successful aligner therapy blends technology with experienced clinical judgment. Digital tools provide powerful visualization, but accurate diagnosis, careful sequencing, and the timely use of auxiliaries when indicated are clinician-driven steps that influence the final outcome.

True Vine Dental Care takes a team-based approach that emphasizes thorough diagnostics and patient education. Clinicians review the expected movements and potential limitations so patients understand each phase of care. That collaborative relationship helps maintain momentum and supports a predictable result.

Choosing a provider who regularly works with clear aligner therapies ensures familiarity with common challenges—such as managing attachments, interproximal reduction, or staging complex movements—and the ability to integrate those strategies thoughtfully into a treatment plan.

Educational video resources

Explore short videos that explain the process, technology, and clinical perspective behind clear aligner treatment.

As the original developer of the Invisalign® system, Align Technology combines clinical data and manufacturing expertise to produce aligners designed for predictable performance. Their platform supports advanced planning and the transfer of precise prescriptions from clinician to fabricator.

*Invisalign® is a registered trademark of Align Technology, Inc.

Ready to learn whether clear aligner therapy is the right option for you? Contact us to schedule a consultation or to ask questions about the treatment process and what to expect. Our team in Longwood, FL is available to provide more information and guide you toward the best path for your smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

I want to straighten my teeth but I don't want metal braces. What are the alternatives?

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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.

Is Invisalign® expensive?

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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.

How does Invisalign® work?

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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.

What is Invisalign® made of?

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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!

How long does Invisalign® treatment take?

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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.

Are Invisalign® results permanent?

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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.

How often must I wear my aligners?

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You must wear your aligners for up to 22 hours daily. You may remove them for eating, drinking and regular oral hygiene.

Are there any restrictions to what I can eat while in treatment?

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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.

Will wearing the aligners affect my speech?

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Like any orthodontic treatment, there is a short adjustment period. The more you speak with the aligners on, the quicker you will adjust.

Is there any discomfort with Invisalign® treatment?

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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.

Can I chew gum?

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It is recommended that you remove your aligners prior to chewing gum as the gum will stick to the aligners.

Can I smoke with the aligners in?

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We discourage smoking with aligners as the cigarette smoke will tend to discolor them.

How do I keep my aligners clean?

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Brushing them with toothpaste will keep them fresh and clean.

How often do I see an orthodontist while wearing Invisalign®

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Regular office visits are every five to six weeks. This will ensure that your Invisalign treatment is progressing as planned.

What happens after my treatment is complete? Do I need retainers?

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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.

Does Invisalign work for kids?

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Yes, if their teeth, including second molars, have grown in completely.