Invisalign® is a clear aligner system that straightens teeth using a series of custom-made, removable trays. Each tray is shaped to move teeth a small amount toward the planned final position, and patients progress through the series to achieve the desired alignment. The trays are made from a smooth, thermoplastic material that applies gentle, controlled forces to guide tooth movement.

The process begins with a digital scan or impression that produces a three-dimensional treatment model and a staged movement plan. Laboratory technology and manufacturing reproduce that plan as a sequence of aligners that match the prescribed tooth movements. When worn according to the prescribed schedule, the staged approach results in gradual changes in alignment and bite over time.

Many adults and teenagers with mild-to-moderate crowding, spacing, or certain bite concerns are good candidates for Invisalign® therapy. Patients with significant skeletal discrepancies or complex tooth-positioning needs may require alternative or complementary treatments, which the clinician will review during evaluation. A stable oral environment free of active periodontal disease and untreated decay is important before starting aligner therapy.

Beyond clinical suitability, candidacy depends on a patient’s willingness to follow the prescribed wear schedule and care instructions, since compliance strongly affects outcomes. The dental team assesses each case individually to determine whether aligners are likely to meet the patient’s goals. If necessary, the clinician will propose adjunctive procedures or other orthodontic options that better address specific needs.

Treatment length varies according to the complexity of the case and the specific movements required; many patients complete active aligner therapy in several months to over a year. The digital treatment plan provides an estimated timeline that reflects the number of aligner stages and the anticipated pace of movement. Adherence to daily wear recommendations and timely check-ins help keep progress on schedule and can influence the overall duration.

Factors that may extend treatment include large tooth movements, the need for refinements, or interruptions in wear. The dental team monitors progress at scheduled visits and can adjust the plan if teeth do not move as predicted. Clear communication and consistent follow-up help manage expectations and refine timing throughout care.

During the initial consultation the clinician performs a comprehensive exam, reviews your dental and medical history, and captures digital records such as intraoral scans and radiographs. The team discusses your smile goals and explains how aligner therapy could address your concerns, including any limitations or additional treatments that might be recommended. This visit is also an opportunity to ask questions about day-to-day responsibilities and the general course of care.

At Brittney K. Craig, DMD, we use digital treatment previews so patients can see an anticipated progression before committing to therapy, and we outline follow-up intervals and retention expectations. The clinician will also identify any preparatory work that should be completed prior to starting aligners, such as restorative or periodontal care. You will leave the consultation with a clearer understanding of the plan and the next steps if you choose to proceed.

Remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water, then brush and floss before reinserting them to maintain good oral hygiene. Rinse aligners under cool or lukewarm water and clean them daily with a soft toothbrush and a clear, mild soap or an aligner-specific cleaner to prevent buildup and staining. Avoid hot water, abrasive toothpaste, or harsh chemicals that can warp or damage the trays.

When not in use, store aligners in their protective case to reduce the risk of loss or breakage and to keep them clean. If you notice persistent discoloration, cracks, or fit problems, contact the dental team promptly so they can recommend the appropriate next steps. Regular professional exams also help ensure hygiene and fit remain optimal throughout treatment.

Some patients experience a mild, temporary change in speech—often a slight lisp—during the first few days after beginning a new set of aligners as the mouth adapts to the trays. This adaptation period is usually short and most people return to normal speech quickly with continued wear. Overall, aligners are low-profile and tend to be more comfortable than traditional fixed appliances for many patients.

It is normal to feel minor pressure or soreness when starting a new aligner as teeth begin to move, and this typically subsides within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers and softer foods during that initial phase can help manage discomfort. If irritation, persistent soreness, or speech concerns continue beyond the expected adjustment period, a follow-up with the dental team can identify and resolve fit or design issues.

Progress is monitored through scheduled clinical check-ins, periodic scans or photographs, and patient reports about fit and comfort, which together show how teeth are responding to the planned movements. The digital treatment plan serves as a roadmap, but clinicians verify that actual tooth movement follows the expected pattern and make decisions if refinements are necessary. Regular oversight allows the dental team to intervene early if movement stalls or diverges from the plan.

In some cases, small refinements, additional trays, or auxiliary techniques may be needed to achieve the desired result, and the team will explain the rationale for any changes. At the office of Brittney K. Craig, DMD, we emphasize clear communication so patients understand why adjustments are recommended and what to expect next. Consistent wear and timely appointments help minimize the need for extensive revisions.

Because aligners are removable, most eating restrictions associated with fixed braces do not apply—simply remove the trays before meals and snacks to avoid damage and staining. It is important to brush and floss after eating before putting aligners back in to reduce the risk of decay and gum irritation from trapped food particles. Avoid drinking anything other than water while wearing aligners, as colored or sugary beverages can stain the trays and promote bacterial growth.

Maintain your regular dental hygiene routine and attend professional cleanings during treatment to support oral health and ensure the best possible outcomes. If you smoke or use products that could discolor the trays, discuss habits with the dental team, as these factors can affect aesthetics and hygiene. Proper daily care preserves both oral health and the effectiveness of aligner therapy.

After active tooth movement, retention is essential to preserve the improvements achieved during aligner therapy; this typically involves wearing retainers according to the clinician’s instructions. Retainers may be removable or fixed depending on clinical needs, and the dental team will recommend a retention schedule tailored to your case. Following the prescribed retention plan helps minimize relapse and supports long-term stability.

Your dentist will schedule follow-up visits to assess how well the teeth are maintaining their positions and to adjust the retention strategy if necessary. Over time many patients transition to less frequent retainer wear while monitoring stability, but occasional checks are helpful to catch any early shifts. Discussing realistic expectations and ongoing care at the end of active treatment ensures a durable, stable result.

Personalization begins with a comprehensive clinical exam, digital records, and a discussion of your aesthetic and functional goals, which together inform a customized movement plan. The clinician uses three-dimensional software to plan the sequence of movements, determine the need for attachments or interproximal reduction, and set staging that balances efficiency with biological considerations. Clinical judgment is applied to adapt the digital plan to each patient’s anatomy and oral health status.

Throughout treatment the team monitors response and makes refinements as needed, ensuring the plan reflects actual tooth movement and patient preferences. Clear instructions, scheduled reviews, and supportive communication help align clinical decision-making with the patient’s lifestyle and expectations. This collaborative approach improves predictability and patient satisfaction with the final outcome.