Is Invisalign Right for Me? 10 Common Questions Answered by a Newport Beach Dentist

By Greg Vigoren, DDS

Considering straighter teeth but not the look of metal braces? At Vigoren Restorative Dentistry in Newport Beach, CA, I help patients evaluate Invisalign® with digital scans and CBCT imaging to ensure precise planning. Below are 10 of the most common Invisalign questions I answer in consultations—based on clinical evidence and nearly 50 years of restorative experience.

TL;DR

• Ideal cases: Mild to moderate misalignment, crowding, or spacing.

• Timeline: About 12–18 months; braces may be longer. Papadimitriou et al., 2014

• Effectiveness: Both braces and aligners achieve high success; aligners may be less effective for complex movements. Ke et al., 2019

• Comfort & hygiene: Smooth, removable trays; no food restrictions, easier hygiene.

Why Invisalign Appeals in Newport Beach

Adults and teens often prefer Invisalign for its clear, removable trays—fitting seamlessly into professional and social life. Over 12 million patients worldwide have been treated with Invisalign, reflecting its popularity (Align Technology). Our approach uses advanced imaging and simulation to preview outcomes and confirm candidacy.

10 Common Invisalign Questions—Answered

1) What is Invisalign and how does it work?

It’s a series of clear aligners, custom-made to move teeth incrementally. Each set is worn 1–2 weeks before progressing.

2) Am I a good candidate?

Best for mild to moderate crowding, spacing, or bite adjustments. Severe skeletal issues may require braces. Ke et al., 2019

3) How long does Invisalign treatment take?

Average: 12–18 months, depending on case complexity. Braces often run longer (18–24 months). NIH

4) What does Invisalign cost?

In the U.S., typical cost is $3,000–$5,000, similar to braces. Many dental plans offer partial orthodontic coverage (Invisalign).

5) Is Invisalign comfortable?

Yes—patients report less pain than braces. A systematic review found aligners reduce soft-tissue irritation compared with fixed appliances (Almasoud, 2018).

6) Can I eat and drink with aligners in?

No. Aligners should be removed for meals and drinks other than water to avoid staining and warping. This makes oral hygiene easier than with braces.

7) How many hours per day must I wear aligners?

20–22 hours daily. Compliance is the most important factor in success.

8) How do I clean aligners?

Rinse with lukewarm water, brush gently with a soft toothbrush. Avoid hot water. Good oral hygiene prevents staining and plaque buildup.

9) What are Invisalign’s limitations?

Not ideal for severe crowding, large skeletal discrepancies, or complex rotations. A proportion of cases require switching to braces mid-treatment (Ke et al., 2019).

10) What results can I expect?

Predictable improvement in alignment and bite when compliance is good. High satisfaction rates are reported, especially for esthetics (Papadimitriou et al., 2014).

Next step: Wondering if Invisalign fits your goals? Schedule a consultation or call (949) 760-1152. We’ll evaluate candidacy with advanced imaging and craft a plan suited to your lifestyle.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results may vary. Please consult a licensed dentist or orthodontist for diagnosis and treatment.

Author Bio

Greg Vigoren, DDS has practiced restorative dentistry in Newport Beach for nearly 50 years. A Fellow in esthetic dentistry, he integrates digital orthodontic planning into comprehensive care to deliver long-lasting, natural results.