Invisalign is one of the leading names in clear dental aligners. Find out how Invisalign came to be so popular, and why it could be the right choice for you.

2.80/5 (188 ratings)
See all reviews
Invisalign

Check your options right now
The quick test helps you find a solution exactly for you
Invisalign FAQs
Are Invisalign consultations free?
Invisalign consultations are typically offered by your local orthodontist. You can search for a nearby Invisalign provider, then book a consultation appointment. Invisalign won’t oversee the entire treatment process, so Invisalign-trained doctors are free to make their own pricing decisions. Some will offer a free consultation whilst others will charge for the service.
You can enter your postcode on the Invisalign website to find a nearby provider. You can then contact them to see how much they’ll charge for the initial appointment. Experiences vary since you’re not dealing directly with Invisalign themselves.
Are Invisalign braces good?
Invisalign’s clear aligners are a popular choice, coming highly recommended by customers. The results are tried and tested. Invisalign has successfully straightened the teeth of more than 8 million previous patients. This company is trusted by dentists and orthodontists, which is reassurance that you’re in good hands.
Of course, that’s not to say that Invisalign is your only option. Though Invisalign is one of the biggest names and one of the most recognisable, there are now many Invisalign competitors that can offer similar treatments.
Are Invisalign results permanent?
There’s no reason for them not to be. A straighter smile can last for decades, if you look after it properly. This means that you’ll need to maintain good oral hygiene and avoid any damaging habits.
You’ll also need to keep wearing retainers. See these as a permanent addition to your daily routine. Retainers will help to keep your teeth in place once they’ve moved to their final position. You should wear your retainers every night and replace them roughly every six months. At first, as your teeth won’t have settled, you might also want to wear them during the day and treat them just like your aligners. Forgetting to use your retainers is likely to cause your teeth to start moving slowly back to their original positions.
Can I use Invisalign when pregnant?
During pregnancy, your teeth and gums may be more sensitive than usual. This shouldn’t stop you from using Invisalign, but always check with your dentist. Other types of braces are often less suitable for pregnant people, with their permanent nature causing problems especially through pregnancy sickness. Clear aligners work well because they can be removed and thoroughly cleaned at any time.
There’s no reason to stop using Invisalign if you discover that you’re pregnant. There’s also nothing to stop you from starting new Invisalign treatment, though you might like to wait until life is a bit calmer and you can focus completely on your treatment. Remember that dental impressions can trigger the gagging reflex, which might be a problem if you’re already dealing with nausea.
What are Invisalign aligner trays made of?
Aligners by Invisalign are made using clear BPA-free plastics. They’re medical grade and safe to use, as well as being durable and strong. Your aligners will feel firm and sturdy, as this is essential for moving your teeth successfully.
Your aligners are custom-made, designed to fit your mouth perfectly. Invisalign has patented the name SmartTrack for their material.
Which Invisalign trays hurt the most?
Invisalign aligners will slowly move your teeth to their final position. They shouldn’t hurt day-to-day, though you might feel some slight pain every time you start using a new set. One set of aligner trays should not be more painful than another, though you might notice some extra discomfort for the first day or two of wearing each set.
Each set of trays is a step further than the previous one. When you first start using a new set of trays, your teeth are being moved a bit more. Over the next couple of weeks, your teeth are gently adjusted until they perfectly fit within the tray. Once that’s happened, you’ll move on to new trays and your teeth will need to move even more. Discomfort shouldn’t last long, so seek your dentist’s advice if you’re struggling to wear your aligners.
Which is better, Invisalign or braces?
For most people with mild to moderate dental issues, Invisalign is a better option. Invisalign treatment is typically cheaper, and often the least painful option. People also like that Invisalign aligners are almost completely invisible, meaning that you can get straighter teeth without hiding your smile in the meantime.
Invisalign isn’t always best, though. Braces are needed for the most complex treatments if teeth are very badly misaligned. They’ll do these bigger jobs much quicker, as well as making more significant changes to the position and direction of your teeth.
Can teenagers use Invisalign?
Unlike some competitors, Invisalign doesn’t set a minimum age limit for patients. This doesn’t mean the Invisalign treatment is suitable for all teenagers, though you may be a suitable candidate if you have most of your adult teeth. Invisalign candidates are checked on a case-by-case basis, so Invisalign won’t set an arbitrary minimum age.
Invisalign products are designed for teens in the same way that they’re made for adults. Teenagers get 3D dental scans and a personalised treatment plan, along with retainers for long-lasting results into adulthood.
Why does Invisalign hurt?
Invisalign’s clear aligners shouldn’t hurt once you’re used to wearing them. You may experience some slight discomfort with each new aligner tray, but this shouldn’t last long or be unbearably painful.
If you’re experiencing Invisalign pain, your aligners might have been made wrong. This could be a problem during manufacture, or earlier when measurements were taken during your scans. Alternatively, you might not be inserting your aligners quite right. Once you’ve put your aligners in position, bite down hard to help them slide completely into place. You can buy aligner chewies that help with the process if you’re struggling.
Will Invisalign work without attachments?
Most people enjoy successful Invisalign treatment without any attachments. In fact, attachments are only needed for more complex treatments like twisting teeth or pulling them further out of the gumline. Your dentist will tell you if they think you’ll need attachments for your treatment. If attachments are needed, avoiding them could stop your treatment from being successful.
Invisalign attachments are coloured to match your teeth, which makes them almost invisible. Even with attachments, you can still remove your aligners for eating and drinking.
Summary
Invisalign is one of the leading names in clear dental aligners. Find out how Invisalign came to be so popular, and why it could be the right choice for you.

2.80/5 (188 ratings)
See all reviews
Pros
- The confidence of a world-famous brand
- Treatment by licensed dentists and orthodontists
- May be available for patients as young as 8
- A variety of aligner types to maximise customisation
- No hidden costs during treatment
Cons
- Longer average treatment times than many competitors
- You will need to attend for regular checkups during treatment
- Potentially much more expensive than treatment elsewhere
- Aftercare treatment and retainers are quite highly-priced
- No guarantee from Invisalign
Have a question?
Find an answer or ask your question
Reviews
Feel free to read all the reviews and leave your own review