How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign straightens teeth with a series of clear, custom-made aligners. Each set is shaped slightly differently from the last, so every new set gently moves your teeth a little closer to their planned position. You wear them most of the day, switch to the next set when our orthodontists say it’s time, and come in for check-ins along the way.

One of the most common questions we hear at our Downtown Fort Lauderdale office is what Invisalign treatment actually looks like from start to finish. Here’s a simple walk-through of each step.

At a Glance

• What it is: Clear, removable aligners custom-made for your teeth.
• How it works: Each new set moves your teeth a little at a time.
• Daily wear: 20 to 22 hours a day, out only to eat, drink anything but water, brush and floss.
• Your timeline: Set at your free consultation, based on your smile goals.
• Cost: The same as braces at Cooper Orthodontics, with 0% interest monthly payments.

Invisalign Treatment, Step by Step

1. Your Free Consultation

Everything starts with a free consultation. Our orthodontists look at your teeth and bite, talk with you about your goals and let you know whether Invisalign is a good fit. This is also when we’ll explain your treatment timeline and payment options, so there are no surprises later.

2. A Digital Scan, Not Messy Impressions

We use an iTero digital scanner to take a 3D image of your teeth. It’s quick and comfortable, with no goopy impression trays. That scan becomes the blueprint for your custom aligners.

3. Your Custom Treatment Plan

Using your scan, our orthodontists map out how each tooth will move, step by step. You’ll get a preview of your plan before your aligners are made.

4. Getting Your First Aligners

At this visit, we make sure your first set fits comfortably and show you how to put your aligners in and take them out. Some patients also get small, tooth-colored bumps called attachments. They help the aligners grip and guide certain teeth.

Pro Tip: Your first few days in a new set may feel snug. That pressure is a normal sign your aligners are working.

5. Wearing and Switching Your Aligners

Wear your aligners 20 to 22 hours a day. Take them out only to eat, drink anything other than plain water, brush and floss. You’ll switch to a new set on the schedule our orthodontists set for you.

6. Progress Check-Ins

You’ll visit our office regularly so we can make sure your teeth are moving as planned. If anything needs adjusting, we’ll catch it early and keep treatment on track.

7. Retainers to Keep Your Results

Once your teeth are in their new positions, we’ll fit you with a retainer. Wearing it as directed keeps your smile from shifting back. Our retainer care guide covers how to keep it clean.

Everyday Life with Invisalign

A few simple habits make treatment go smoothly:

• Brush before you put them back in. Food trapped under your aligners can lead to cavities and staining.
• Rinse your aligners each time you take them out, and clean them gently every day.
• Use your case. Wrapping aligners in a napkin is the fastest way to throw them away by accident.
• Sip water only while wearing them. Coffee, soda and juice can stain aligners and trap sugar against your teeth.

Pro Tip: Keep a travel case, toothbrush and small toothpaste in your bag or car for meals on the go.

Is Invisalign Right for You?

The choice between Invisalign and braces usually comes down to your lifestyle:

• Invisalign suits patients who want a discreet, removable option and are comfortable keeping track of their aligners every day.
• Braces suit patients who’d rather not be responsible for wearing and caring for removable aligners.

At Cooper Orthodontics, braces and Invisalign cost the same, so you can choose based on what fits your life, not your budget. Our orthodontists will help you weigh both options at your consultation.

FAQs

Does Invisalign hurt?

Most patients feel some pressure for the first day or two in each new set of aligners. It’s usually mild and fades quickly as your teeth adjust.

How long will my Invisalign treatment take?

Every smile is different, so your timeline depends on your goals. Our orthodontists will give you a personalized timeline at your free consultation.

Where can I get Invisalign in Fort Lauderdale?

Our Downtown Fort Lauderdale office at 1500 E Broward Blvd offers Invisalign for teens and adults, with iTero digital scanning and free consultations.

Start Your Invisalign Journey in Downtown Fort Lauderdale

Curious whether Invisalign is right for you? Our orthodontists are happy to walk you through your options and answer your questions.

Cooper Orthodontics – Downtown Ft. Lauderdale
1500 E Broward Blvd, Ste 2-3, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
(954) 358-4799

Book your free consultation today!

THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT.