Does Invisalign Really Work San Jose, CA
Invisalign® created clear aligners to offer patients of varying ages an alternative to traditional bulky braces for orthodontic treatment. Clear aligners are nearly invisible, removable, and a discreet way to straighten the teeth. Dental professionals provide Invisalign to give patients the added benefit of professional checkups to receive proper care throughout treatment. However, many people may consider whether they actually work.
Invisalign treatment is available at NuSmile Dental & Orthodontics in San Jose and the surrounding area. We help you understand what the treatment plan entails and how it works. Call us today at (408) 791-2800 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
The Research on Invisalign
Invisalign is the world's most popular and advanced clear aligner system. With over twenty years of innovation on its side, it has delivered smiles to over nine million people and over 2.3 million teens. Each patient receives a set of custom-made aligners. The system includes proprietary virtual modeling software, rapid manufacturing processes, and mass customization, and the aligners consist of a patented material.
To achieve the best results, patients must wear their aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, removing them only when necessary. Such instances include eating or drinking anything other than cool water. Patients must also keep regular visits to both the dentist and the orthodontist. The dentist can ensure the mouth is in optimal health, reducing the risk of Invisalign irritating any conditions. The orthodontist can ensure the treatment's overall success while also switching out the patient's aligners.
“With over twenty years of innovation on its side, it has delivered smiles to over nine million people and over 2.3 million teens.”
Commonality by Age Group
Invisalign is made for patients of all ages. A 2015 article found that Invisalign treatment is common in patients between 13.6 and 31.9 years old. We find that teens and adults are the most common patients seeking Invisalign treatment due to its comfort, discreetness, and shortened treatment time.
Invisalign created the first clear aligner treatment, called Invisalign First, for children with primary teeth and growing permanent teeth. Children start growing permanent teeth between 6 and 7 years old, and orthodontic treatment can help guide the teeth into proper development. Invisalign treatment is available for children, teens, and adults with conditions viable for treatment.
“We find that teens and adults are the most common patients seeking Invisalign treatment due to its comfort, discreetness, and shortened treatment time.”
Requirements for Candidacy
Although Invisalign technology has advanced to allow treatment for more patients, not everyone is a candidate. During the smile assessment, we conduct both a physical oral exam and a 3D scan that traces the entire smile. We will also discuss oral and general health history, along with any past dental treatments.
In most cases, patients with severe orthodontic conditions are not advised to go with clear aligner treatment as they may need braces to effectively treat their case. Invisalign is intended primarily for patients with minor to moderate issues, such as overcrowding, spacing, or improper bite alignment. Possible treatment alternatives will be discussed if a patient is not a good candidate for Invisalign.
“Invisalign is intended primarily for patients with minor to moderate issues, such as overcrowding, spacing, or improper bite alignment.”
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Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces
There are a few differences between Invisalign and braces. Clear aligners have the advantage of being both discrete and removable. This allows patients to continue living their lifestyle with very few restrictions and keep their oral cavity clean. However, patient compliance is crucial with Invisalign treatment as not adhering to an orthodontist's specified instructions can limit or diminish anticipated results.
Braces are extremely durable as they are made of metal and tightly connected by wire. They offer patients a bit of personality through the variety of colored wires available, often an intriguing factor for children and adolescents. An added advantage is they cannot be lost or broken, especially favorable for young patients. However, there is a list of restricted foods and beverages with braces treatment as they can easily cause enamel deterioration and gingival decay. Patients with braces must learn what to avoid and how to properly clean and maintain their oral cavity during treatment.
“Clear aligners have the advantage of being both discrete and removable.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. Is Invisalign backed by research?
Q. Is there commonality by age group?
Q. What are the requirements for candidacy?
Q. What is the difference invisalign vs. traditional braces?
Q. What should I avoid during treatment?
People Also Ask
Q. What are the pros and cons of Invisalign?
Q. How long will my teen need to wear Invisalign?
Q. How can someone find the right Invisalign Dentist?
Q. Are clear aligners a time-saving treatment?
Q. How effective is Invisalign in treating overbites and underbites?
What to Avoid During Treatment
Although there are not many strict limitations on food and drink with Invisalign treatment since they are removable, we advise patients against certain items that may produce undesirable effects. Sugary, sticky, and acidic foods and beverages can stain, discolor, or weaken the natural surface layer of the teeth. Also, high-staining agents, such as coffee, tea, and wine, can affect the teeth.
Also, not removing the aligners when eating and drinking can trap bacteria and plaque, causing decay and enamel deterioration. This can have negative effects on the patient's overall treatment. It is vital that patients properly clean out the aligners, thoroughly brush their teeth, floss, and rinse at least twice daily to maintain the aligners and good oral health.
“Sugary, sticky, and acidic foods and beverages can stain, discolor, or weaken the teeth’s natural surface layer.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Who is not a candidate for Invisalign treatment?
A. Invisalign is not for patients with severe dental or orthodontic conditions. It may not be suitable for patients who have difficulty with self-reliance or know they may not adhere to necessary protocol. Lastly, patients with several prior dental treatments or surgeries may not be good candidates due to weakened bone.
Q. How is candidacy determined?
A. During the initial consultation, patients are examined using a 3D scanner that takes hundreds of photos per second and creates an accurate digital image. We also conduct a physical oral exam and check for any signs of wear-and-tear or gingival decay. The Invisalign system interprets the findings and helps us determine whether the patient is a good candidate for treatment.
Q. What happens during Invisalign treatment?
A. Once a patient qualifies for Invisalign, we curate a treatment plan using the smile scan conducted during the consultation. The 3D renderings are sent to a lab that creates the custom trays for the first few weeks. The patient will have follow-up appointments every 4 to 6 weeks to check progress and are given their next sets of aligners.
Q. Will I have to wear a retainer after I complete treatment?
A. As with all orthodontic treatments, it is highly advised that patients wear a retainer to avoid relapse or shifting. Teeth tend to naturally shift back to their original placement without a device applying a specific amount of force. However, wearing a retainer even once a week for at least a year can make a big difference in long-term results.
Q. How long is the average treatment duration with Invisalign?
A. The length of treatment varies with each case. Patients may take as little as six months or as long as three years depending on the severity of their condition. It also depends largely on patient adherence to their individualized instructions and proper care and maintenance.
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Invisalign® Terminology
Learn More Today
Invisalign can help you get the smile of your dreams without a mouth full of metal. We at NuSmile Dental & Orthodontics can help. Call us today at (408) 791-2800 to schedule an appointment and learn more.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2026
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2026
- Invisalign®. How Invisalign Works. 2026
- Invisalign®. Take the Smile Assessment. 2026
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2026
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