What to Expect with Invisalign
Thinking about Invisalign? Understanding the process helps you feel confident about starting treatment.
Here's a complete guide to your Invisalign journey at BluSky Dental—from your first consultation to your beautiful new smile.
Your Invisalign Timeline
| Phase | Timeline | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Consultation | Day 1 | Assessment and planning |
| Scanning & Design | Week 1-2 | Digital impressions, treatment preview |
| Aligners Ready | Week 3-4 | Custom aligners manufactured |
| Active Treatment | 6-18 months | Wearing aligners, switching every 1-2 weeks |
| Retention | Ongoing | Retainers maintain your results |
Phase 1: Consultation
What We'll Do
- Examine your teeth and bite
- Discuss your smile goals
- Determine if Invisalign is right for you
- Answer all your questions
- Explain costs and payment options
Is Invisalign Right for You?
Invisalign treats:
- Crowding
- Spacing/gaps
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
Some complex cases may require alternatives. We'll give you honest recommendations.
Phase 2: Digital Scanning & Treatment Planning
The iTero Scan
Instead of goopy impressions, we use a digital scanner:
- Small wand captures 3D images
- Comfortable and fast (2-3 minutes)
- Highly accurate
- No gagging or discomfort
Your Custom Treatment Plan
Using your scan, we create a digital treatment plan:
- ClinCheck® software maps tooth movements
- You see a virtual preview of your results
- Treatment length is estimated
- Number of aligner sets determined
You'll see your new smile before you start!
Phase 3: Receiving Your Aligners
What You Get
- Multiple sets of custom aligners
- Wearing instructions
- Aligner case
- Cleaning information
- Appointment schedule
Attachments (If Needed)
Some cases require small tooth-colored "attachments":
- Bonded to specific teeth
- Help aligners grip better
- Improve tooth movement precision
- Removed at end of treatment
Getting Comfortable
Your first few days:
- Aligners may feel tight (this means they're working!)
- Minor speech adjustment (usually 1-2 days)
- Slight pressure is normal
- Any discomfort typically mild
Phase 4: Active Treatment
Daily Life with Invisalign
Wearing Your Aligners
- 20-22 hours per day
- Remove only for eating, drinking (except water), and brushing
- More wear time = faster, better results
Eating and Drinking
- Eat whatever you want (aligners removed)
- Drink water with aligners in
- Remove for coffee, tea, wine, anything besides water
- No food restrictions!
Oral Hygiene
- Brush after meals before reinserting aligners
- Floss daily
- Clean aligners with lukewarm water
- Regular dental checkups continue
Check-Up Appointments
Every 6-8 weeks: Progress assessment, receive next sets of aligners, any adjustments needed, questions answered. Quick visits (15-20 minutes).
Phase 5: Finishing & Retention
Refinement (If Needed)
Some patients need "refinement aligners":
- Additional aligners for final adjustments
- Ensures perfect results
- Included in most treatment plans
Retainers: Keeping Your Results
Teeth naturally want to shift back. Retainers maintain your results permanently.
Types of Retainers
- Vivera Retainers: Clear, similar to Invisalign (worn at night)
- Fixed Retainers: Thin wire bonded behind front teeth (permanent)
- Both: Some patients use both for maximum stability
Invisalign Life Hacks
Tips for Success
- Set aligner reminders — Phone alerts help
- Carry your case everywhere — Don't wrap in napkins!
- Keep aligners in when you can — More wear = better results
- Brush aligners daily — Prevents odor and cloudiness
- Change aligners at night — Sleep through initial tightness
- Don't lose aligners — Replacement delays treatment
- Track your progress — Photos keep you motivated
Making It Easy
- Travel kit (toothbrush, floss, case)
- Extra cases (car, purse, desk)
- Ortho wax for any irritation
- Invisalign app for tracking
Frequently Asked Questions
You'll feel pressure and mild discomfort when switching aligners—this means they're working! It's generally less painful than braces.
Invisalign is nearly invisible. Most people won't notice unless you tell them.
Typically 6-18 months depending on complexity. We'll estimate your timeline at consultation.
Contact us immediately. We may have you move to the next aligner or order a replacement.
Start Your Invisalign Journey
Ready to transform your smile? Book your consultation today.
Call: (613) 728-1511
Address: 20 – 1620 Scott Street, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4S7
At BluSky we BEElieve in bringing life to your smile. 🐝