Straight Talk: 5 Things to Know About Invisalign® Aligners

When it comes to straightening your smile, there’s never been a more discreet, comfortable option than Invisalign® clear aligners. At Tend, we get a lot of questions about how the process works, whether it hurts, and what kind of results to expect. So I’m here to break it all down.

Whether you’re just starting your research or you’re ready to begin Invisalign treatment, here are five things I want you to know—straight from your friendly neighborhood dentist.

• What Are Invisalign Clear Aligners?
  Invisalign aligners are a modern alternative to traditional braces. They’re made of a smooth, clear plastic that fits snugly over your teeth. Each aligner is designed to make tiny shifts, gradually moving your teeth into alignment. They’re nearly invisible, custom-made, and removable—so you can straighten your smile without the brackets, wires, or food restrictions that come with braces.
• Why Choose Invisalign Over Metal Braces?
  If you want straighter teeth but don’t want the look or feel of metal braces, clear aligners are a great choice. Invisalign aligners are comfortable, subtle, and you can take them out to eat, brush, and floss. That kind of flexibility makes a big difference in your day-to-day. They’re especially popular with adults and teens who want effective orthodontic treatment without drawing attention to it.
• Does Invisalign Hurt? What to Expect
  This is one of the most common questions I get: Will Invisalign aligners hurt? The short answer? A little, but only at first. Just like with braces, you might feel some mild soreness when your teeth start moving—especially in the first 3–5 days of wearing a new set of aligners. That’s totally normal and a good sign they’re working. Most patients say it’s more of a dull pressure than pain, and it typically fades quickly.
• The Invisalign Process: What Happens at Your Appointment
  Your Invisalign journey at Tend starts with a digital scan of your teeth. That scan becomes the blueprint for your custom treatment plan. When your aligners are ready, we may place small, tooth-colored attachments to help guide your teeth more effectively. You’ll be trained on how to insert and remove them, how to clean them, and when to switch to your next set. Most patients wear their aligners for 20–22 hours a day and switch to a new set every 1–2 weeks.
• How Long Do Invisalign Results Last?
  The results from Invisalign can last forever—if you wear your retainers. Once treatment is complete, you’ll receive a retainer (usually worn at night) to help keep your teeth in place. The average Invisalign treatment time ranges from 6–15 months, depending on how much movement your smile needs. At your consultation, we’ll walk you through what your custom timeline looks like.

Final Thoughts

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If you’ve been thinking about straightening your teeth and want a flexible, modern approach, Invisalign clear aligners are a smart, effective option. At Tend, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—from your first scan to your final smile.

Want to know if you’re a candidate for Invisalign? Book a consultation with us and let’s get started.

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