Invisalign in Ajax, ON
Invisalign® is a clear aligner system that straightens teeth with a series of custom-made, removable plastic trays instead of metal braces. Dr. Patel Dentistry in Ajax offers Invisalign for patients who want a more discreet way to straighten their smile. This page explains how Invisalign works, who it suits, what treatment involves and what affects the cost.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a brand of clear aligners made by Align Technology. The aligners are made of clear plastic and are custom-made for your teeth from a scan or impressions. You wear a series of them, one after another. Each set moves your teeth a little, and you usually change to the next set every one to two weeks, as your dentist directs.
What can Invisalign treat?
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Some bite problems, such as an overbite, underbite or crossbite
- Teeth that have drifted after earlier braces
Not every case is suitable for aligners. Some more complex problems need other treatment, and your dentist will tell you honestly whether Invisalign is the right choice for your teeth.
Benefits of Invisalign
- Discreet. The aligners are clear, so most people will not notice them.
- Removable. You take them out to eat, drink and clean your teeth.
- No brackets or wires. The smooth plastic is less likely to irritate your cheeks and gums than metal braces.
- Easy to keep clean. You brush and floss normally.
How Invisalign treatment works
- Consultation and exam. Your dentist checks your teeth and gums, talks through your goals and explains whether Invisalign suits you.
- Planning. A scan or impressions of your teeth are used to plan how they will move.
- Custom aligners. Your aligners are made for your teeth.
- Wearing your aligners. You wear each set for around 20 to 22 hours a day, taking them out only to eat, drink anything other than water, and clean your teeth.
- Check-ins. Your dentist monitors your progress and gives you your next sets of aligners.
- Retainers. After treatment, a retainer helps keep your teeth in their new position.
Living with Invisalign
- Eating and drinking: take your aligners out for meals and for anything other than water, then brush before putting them back in.
- Cleaning: rinse your aligners each time you remove them and brush them gently with lukewarm water. Never use hot water, which can warp the plastic.
- Getting used to a new set: mild pressure for the first day or two of each new set is normal.
- Speaking: some people notice a slight lisp at first, which usually settles within days.
- Storing them: keep your aligners in their case when they are out of your mouth.
How long does Invisalign take?
Treatment time depends on how far your teeth need to move. Simpler cases can be shorter, and more complex cases take longer. Your dentist can give you an estimate after your exam. How consistently you wear your aligners also makes a big difference to how long treatment takes.
Invisalign vs braces
| Compare | Invisalign | Traditional braces |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear and nearly invisible | Metal brackets and wires visible |
| Removable | Yes, you take them out to eat and clean | No, fixed to the teeth |
| Food | No restrictions while the aligners are out | Some foods need to be avoided |
| Cleaning | Brush and floss as usual | Cleaning around brackets takes more time |
| Depends on you | Yes, results rely on wearing them as directed | No, they work all the time |
| Complex cases | Not suitable for every case | Can treat a wide range of cases |
Invisalign and SureSmile clear aligners
Invisalign and SureSmile are both clear aligner systems that move teeth with a series of custom trays. We offer both, so we can explain how they differ and which suits your teeth and your goals.
Learn more about SureSmile clear aligners.
Invisalign cost: what affects the price
The cost of Invisalign depends on your case, which is why the best answer comes after an exam. The main factors are:
- How far your teeth need to move, and how many aligners that takes
- How long treatment lasts
- Whether you need refinements or additional aligners along the way
- Retainers after treatment
- Whether you need other dental work first, such as a cleaning, fillings or gum treatment
Some insurance plans include coverage for orthodontic treatment, and our team can help you check your plan. We also offer flexible payment plans for larger treatments.
See our insurance and payment plans.
Is Invisalign right for you?
Invisalign tends to suit people who:
- Have healthy teeth and gums, or are willing to have any problems treated first
- Are happy to wear their aligners for most of the day
- Want a more discreet option than metal braces
- Have a straightforward to moderate alignment concern
Cavities and gum disease need to be treated before aligner treatment starts. A consultation is the best way to find out whether Invisalign suits you.
Learn more about preventative care.
Common Questions
Invisalign FAQ
Does Invisalign hurt?
Most people feel mild pressure or tightness for the first day or two of each new set of aligners. This is normal and usually settles quickly.
Can I eat what I like with Invisalign?
Yes. You take your aligners out to eat, so there are no food restrictions. Brush your teeth before putting them back in.
How many hours a day do I wear Invisalign?
Around 20 to 22 hours a day, taking them out only to eat, drink anything other than water, and clean your teeth.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
It depends on your case. Your dentist can give you an estimate after an exam.
How much does Invisalign cost in Ajax?
The cost depends on how far your teeth need to move, how long treatment takes and whether you need other dental work first. Book a consultation and we can talk you through your options.
Is Invisalign covered by insurance?
Some plans cover part of orthodontic treatment. Check your plan, and our team can help you review your coverage.
Will I need a retainer after Invisalign?
Yes. A retainer helps keep your teeth in their new position after treatment, and your dentist will explain how to wear it.
Is Invisalign as effective as braces?
For many common alignment concerns, clear aligners work well when worn as directed. More complex problems may need braces or other treatment, and your dentist will tell you which is right for you.
Do you offer Invisalign in Pickering and Whitby?
Our office is in Ajax, and we welcome Invisalign patients from Pickering, Whitby and across Durham Region.
Book an Invisalign consultation
Ready to find out whether Invisalign is right for you? Call 289-660-3368 or book online and we will get you in. We are accepting new patients.