Invisalign® FAQs

Answered by Dr. Mickiewicz

How long has Invisalign® technology been available?

Invisalign® was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 1998. By 2000, dentists and orthodontists alike were recommending the clear aligners to their patients as a viable alternative to traditional metal braces.

What are the primary benefits of Invisalign® ?

The clear, virtually invisible trays never affect your lifestyle or day-to-day interactions with others.
Invisalign® aligners are also removable, giving you total flexibility to eat and drink what you want.
Removable aligners also enable normal brushing and flossing with no pesky wires and brackets to work around.
Appointments for checkups are approximately every six weeks. This means less time in the dentist’s chair and scheduling appointments.
The animation of the Invisalign® software allows you to view your virtual results and treatment plan before you begin.

Does it hurt?

Upon the placement of each new set of trays, you may notice some discomfort and soreness. The Invisalign® system is gentle and shifts teeth slowly, minimizing pain. There is significantly less pain and discomfort with Invisalign® than with traditional metal braces.

What are the age requirements?

Invisalign® is recommended for teens and adults who have all their adult teeth in place. Another consideration, in addition to age, is maturity level. Patients must wear aligners 20 to 22 hours a day. They have to be removed for eating, some drinking (coffee, tea, wine), and brushing your teeth. If they are not worn the prescribed amount of time, the treatment is ineffective.

Are there eating restrictions?

There are eating guidelines. Due to the length of time patients must wear their aligners on a daily basis, we advise drinking only water with the Invisalign® tray in place. Coffee, tea, dark sodas, and wine may stain your trays. Most patients make it a habit of carrying a toothbrush and toothpaste with them to ensure good oral hygiene is available on the go.

Is Invisalign® an alternative to traditional braces for every orthodontic patient?

The Invisalign® system is not recommended for very complicated cases or if you need extractions. Only an Invisalign® -certified dentist who performs a full exam can decide whether Invisalign® is right for you. If you are seeking Invisalign® due to concerns about your appearance, lingual braces are usually the next-best option. Lingual braces attach to the back of your teeth for minimal visibility, similar to Invisalign®.

“I have had headache issues for the last 35 years. Every morning greeted me with a headache. I’ve been to many doctors and have had many X-rays and cat scans of my head and neck. I was treated for migraines and neck issues. Nothing worked. I went to Dr. Mickiewicz two months ago and his diagnosis was TMJ. He fitted me with an appliance and the results are amazing. I have been back twice to have him adjust the appliance as my jaw loosens and adjusts, and he is always very patient with my extra-long explanations. I wish I had known him 35 years ago. FYI – I am now waking up without headaches – it is a good start to any day. Thanks Dr. Mick!”
Lily S.

“I have been seeing Dr Mickiewicz for over two years and am very satisfied with his services. I have a sleep apnea problem and rarely was getting any good nights rest. My medical doctor suggested I wear a large breathing machine… so I went ahead and got one and tried it out and and had nothing but problems trying to sleep with this large breathing machine strapped to my head. Then I saw Dr Mickiewicz and he has found the simplest and most affordable solution with my custom made mouthpiece that reshapes my jaw position just while I sleep! Bingo– no more sleep issues and also no more large breathing machine to struggle with! I am very grateful for his expertise and experience with sleep issues.”
Tony A.

“I recently visited Dr. Mickiewicz after years of suffering from sleep apnea and no success using conventional CPAP machines. I was fitted with dental appliance in an effort to resolve the problem. Frankly, I was skeptical, but I am so pleased with the early results. I just started using the device last week and I am already seeing an improvement in the quality of my sleep. From my first contact with Dr. Mickiewicz, it was immediately apparent that his grasp of the issues surrounding sleep apnea were light years ahead of his peers. He is a true professional and I enthusiastically recommend him.”
Don B.

“Always a great experience at this dental office. The front office has your paperwork prepared before you arrive. Everyone is very nice and friendly and hardworking. My teeth are thoroughly cleaned when I visit. This place is a step above the rest with the right amount of class and comfort.”
Kara S.

“When I went to see Dr. Mickiewicz my jaw was locking up on me because my TMJ was so bad and my doctor didn’t really know what to do for me. This man changed my life. At my first visit I couldn’t even yawn without my jaw locking in the open position. At my last visit I could yawn and even chew steak without my jaw hurting.”
Jewel L.

“I have spent thousands of dollars out of pocket to dentists for my TMJ problems with no lasting relief. Dr. Mickiewicz was able to give me relief after years of pain. I am also able to utilize my medical insurance for his services adding credibility to his level of service that goes beyond common dentistry. His extensive knowledge of the disorder was clear; combined with his personable disposition put me at ease. His staff also deserves mention they are true professionals with a clear constitution for compassion.”
Cathleen J.

“My husband and I have gone to Dr. Mickiewicz for years after a recommendation of a coworker. Kind of strange to say that going to the dentist is an enjoyable experience – but it is! After years of having tense and painful visits to other dentists in Sacramento, we have found the right DDS for us: above average in all areas. He is an excellent practitioner, listens to all symptoms and concerns, answers all questions patiently and repeats as necessary. Gives us time to make any decisions about our dental care if we are hesitant, and encourages second opinions. His chair-side manner is relaxed and personable – which helps me relax. He is stuck with us for life! Thanks Dr. Mickiewicz and staff!”
T.P.

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