Shalman Dentistry

Invisalign FAQ

Since the Invisalign process of teeth straitening is so popular, you may have heard about its use and effectiveness. If you have Invisalign frequently asked questions, get your information from a reliable source. The best source for answers to Invisalign FAQ is Dr. Alex Shalman. He’s fully trained in the Invisalign process, and he has the experience to be a reliable source of dental health information. Call him to find out if you’re a good candidate for Invisalign. In the meantime, review these Invisalign frequently asked questions and answers.

What Is Invisalign Clear Trays?

Invisalign is a teeth straightening treatment that uses a series of clear aligner trays instead of braces affixed to your teeth to progressively move your teeth into proper position. You don’t need unsightly or uncomfortable metal traditional braces, and with Invisalign, you remove your aligners when you eat or brush your teeth.

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What Are Aligner Trays?

Aligners are clear plastic inserts that fit over your teeth, like a mouthguard. They’re created from a mold of your bite. They place pressure gently on your teeth to reposition them. Aligners are among the latest trends and technological advances that make getting orthodontic treatments so much more appealing.

What Is the Invisalign Process?

The Invisalign process begins when you meet with your dentist, Dr. Alex Shalman. He generates a 3D image of your mouth using a digital scanner. The Invisalign system generates a series of aligners to shift your teeth into alignment. Dr. Shalman shows you how each one moves your teeth closer to your best possible smile. If you’re a good candidate, you wear the aligners for at least 20 and up to 22 hours each day. You have to return to Dr. Shalman occasionally during your treatment for a brief examination and to receive one or two new sets of aligner trays. Little by little, your smile gradually transforms until you reach your goals.

What Are Dr. Shalman’s Credentials?

As one of the top cosmetic dentists, he runs a thriving boutique dental practice. Dr. Shalman has undergone specialized Invisalign training and is one of their Silver Tier providers. Known as the “Artist of the Smile,” Dr. Shalman is committed to providing the best dental care and cosmetic dentistry services.

How Do the Invisalign Aligners Work?

Through gentle, constant pressure, your aligners gradually push your teeth into the desired positions. The process requires a series of clear plastic aligners or aligning trays. You slip them on over your teeth, where they’re barely noticeable. Each new aligner is designed to fit the new position of your teeth as they move and change throughout the straightening process.

Is Invisalign Affordable?

Your Invisalign cost is very competitive with traditional braces, and many dental insurance plans pay for a substantial portion of your treatment. You can also get a payment plan through Dr. Shalman to stretch out the cost of your treatment into affordable monthly payments.

What Kind of Material Are the Invisalign Aligners Made of?

Invisalign uses a clear, flexible thermoplastic material called SmartTrack®, a patented material specially designed for Invisalign. It’s an FDA-approved product that is free of BPS, BPA and latex. These slim, clear aligners fit so perfectly over your teeth that they’re nearly invisible.

Can Any Dentist Offer Invisalign?

To offer Invisalign, a dentist must undergo specialized training to learn the process and the software. Dr. Shalman is cosmetic dentist who’s also an authorized Silver-Tier Invisalign provider with years of experience.

What Benefits Can I Expect from the Invisalign Treatment?

When comparing Invisalign vs. traditional braces, you’ll find that both straighten your teeth, but the similarities stop there. Since they’re nearly invisible, Invisalign straightens your teeth while nobody notices. Unlike braces, Invisalign’s smooth finish won’t injure the soft tissue inside your mouth, so you don’t have to worry about any soreness or bleeding.

How Long Does the Invisalign Treatment Take?

The length of your treatment depends on the amount of straightening necessary and how diligently you wear your aligners. Typical treatments usually last between 12 and 18 months. Dr. Shalman can give you a better estimate during your first consultation.

Does Invisalign Work for Everyone?

Invisalign works for those old enough to wear the aligners responsibly, including both teenagers and adults. The aligners are capable of addressing a host of teeth problems. Only Dr. Shalman can tell you for sure whether you’re a candidate for Invisalign after a complete exam and review of your dental history.

What if My Teenager Doesn’t Wear the Aligners?

One of the best aspects of Invisalign aligners is that you can take them out when necessary. But to be effective, your teenager has to wear them for 20 to 22 hours a day, taking them out only to eat and brush. They don’t work otherwise. For neglectful teenagers, Invisalign includes an inconspicuous blue dot on the aligner that monitors how much they’re worn.

How Many Hours a Day Do I Need to Wear the Aligners?

You should wear them at least 20 hours per day, but ideally, you want to leave them in for 22 hours a day. They only work when they’re in your mouth.

What Happens after My Invisalign Treatment?

After your teeth are properly straightened, you still need to wear a retainer to keep them from shifting back, just as you do with traditional braces. Invisalign recommends Vivera® retainers, which are 30 percent stronger than the competition and just as invisible as their aligners. You wear the retainers for nine to 12 months after your Invisalign treatment, but not as often as you wore the aligners.

Your smile is as unique as your soul, and everyone starts from a different place. Discuss your expectations with your dentist before beginning your treatment. Dr. Shalman is one of New York’s premier family dentists and a specialist in cosmetic dentistry. Contact him today to set up your initial consultation at his boutique clinic.

Updated on Nov 6, 2023 by Dr. Alex Shalman (Dentist) of Shalman Dentistry

Shalman Dentistry
44 W 10th St #1A
New York, NY 10011
(10th St, between 5th & 6th Avenue)
(212) 658-1093
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