Invisalign

Invisalign Clear Aligners in the Chicago Loop, IL

Invisalign's® invisible, removable, and comfortable aligners will give you the beautiful straight teeth you've always wanted. And best of all, no one can tell you're wearing them. Invisalign is great for adults and teenagers.

What is Invisalign®?

Invisalign® is the invisible way to straighten your teeth without braces.
Invisalign® uses a series of clear removable aligners to straighten your teeth without metal wires or brackets
Invisalign® has been proven effective in clinical research and in orthodontic practices nationwide.

How Does Invisalign® Work?

You wear each set of aligners for 1 - 2 weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss.
As you replace each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move little by little, week by week - until they have straightened to the their final position
You'll visit us about once every 8 weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned.
Total treatment time averages 4 - 15 months and the average number of aligners during treatment is between 12 - 30, but both will vary from case to case.

Photograph of woman removing her Invisalign, Chicago Loop, IL

How Are Aligners Made? You'd Be Amazed...

The aligners are made through a combination of our expertise and 3-D computer imaging technology. No dental impressions are required. A 3D scanner is used to create a digital model of your teeth.

I am an active patient:

How many hours a day should I wear my Invisalign trays?

20 -22 hours a day. Please only drink water with your trays in your mouth. Many foods and drinks are acidic and we don't want the tray to act as a bath to soak your teeth for extended periods. In addition, your saliva neutralizes the acid when you eat and drink and the trays prevent the saliva from accessing your teeth. If you keep your trays out for a period longer than the recommended time during the day please extend the wear time of that tray.

How long should I wear each Invisalign tray?

Each tray should be worn for 1 to 2 weeks, or until it no longer feels tight or “snaps” onto your teeth. If the tray feels loose or you no longer experience any pressure, it's time to switch to the next one. If you're unsure, feel free to extend the wear of your tray up to 10 days and reassess. As you progress to higher-numbered trays (e.g., tray #5 vs. tray #1), you may notice more pressure and potential discomfort. This is normal as your teeth move and the supporting ligaments loosen, allowing for increased pressure. Rest assured, Invisalign uses a safe, gradual approach to move your teeth.

How do I clean my Invisalign trays or retainers?

While brushing your trays or retainers with toothpaste may seem convenient, it's best to avoid doing so regularly as some toothpastes contain abrasive agents (like silica) that can scratch and damage the aligners. Instead, here are some recommended cleaning methods:

Rinse: After removing your trays, rinse them with lukewarm or cold water to remove any debris.

Antibacterial Soap: Gently brush your trays with antibacterial soap, water, and a soft-bristled toothbrush. This method will effectively remove bacteria without damaging your aligners. Be sure to rinse well afterward.

Mouthwash: Use mouthwash diluted with water along with a soft toothbrush to disinfect your trays. Do not soak your trays or retainers for extended periods of time in colored mouthwash as the trays can become tinted.

Cleaning Crystals: Soak your trays in lukewarm (not hot) water mixed with the cleaning crystals for at least 15 minutes. After soaking, gently brush the trays to remove any stains, and rinse thoroughly with water.

Hydrogen Peroxide Solution: Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water, and soak your trays for at least 15 minutes. This solution disinfects your aligners and removes stains. After soaking, brush gently and rinse with water.

What should I do if my new tray doesn’t fit properly?

Though infrequent, if your new tray doesn’t fit correctly try putting your old tray back in and wear it for 3 more days. After that, try the new tray again. If the fit issues continue, please contact our office for further assistance and an appointment.

Visit the Invisalign® website