How Invisalign Works — 5 Simple Steps
Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, virtually invisible aligners to move your teeth gradually into their ideal positions. At Dentistry at LaSalle in Burlington, ON, the process is straightforward:
- Consultation & digital scan — We examine your bite, take digital impressions, and discuss your smile goals. No messy moulds required.
- Custom treatment plan — Using Invisalign’s 3D ClinCheck software, we map every stage of tooth movement so you can preview your final result before treatment begins.
- Aligner fabrication — Your full set of aligners is manufactured from SmartTrack material for a comfortable, precise fit.
- Wear & switch — You wear each set of aligners for one to two weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Regular check-ins at our Burlington office (typically every six to eight weeks) keep everything on track.
- Retainers & maintenance — Once treatment is complete, custom retainers preserve your new alignment for the long term.
What Can Invisalign Treat?
Invisalign is effective for a wide range of orthodontic concerns, including:
- Crowded teeth — overlapping or rotated teeth that are difficult to clean
- Gaps between teeth — spacing issues that affect appearance and function
- Overbite, underbite, and crossbite — jaw-alignment problems that can lead to uneven wear
- Open bite — front teeth that do not touch when the back teeth are closed
During your consultation, our Burlington dental team will determine whether Invisalign is the right solution or whether an alternative approach — such as crowns and bridges for structural concerns — may be more appropriate.
Invisalign for Teens
Invisalign is not just for adults. Invisalign Teen aligners include compliance indicators that fade with wear, helping parents and our team confirm the aligners are being used as directed. Key benefits for teenagers:
- Removable design makes brushing, flossing, and eating easier than with traditional braces
- Clear material is far less noticeable in school photos and social settings
- Replacement aligners are available if one is lost or damaged
We welcome teen patients from Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton, and the Halton Region for Invisalign consultations at our wheelchair-accessible dental suite.
Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces
Both options can deliver excellent orthodontic results, but they differ in several important ways:
| Feature | Invisalign | Traditional Braces |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Nearly invisible | Metal or ceramic brackets visible on teeth |
| Removability | Removable for meals and hygiene | Fixed for the duration of treatment |
| Comfort | Smooth plastic; no wires or brackets | Brackets can irritate cheeks and gums |
| Diet restrictions | None — remove aligners to eat | Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods |
| Treatment time | 12–18 months (typical) | 18–36 months (typical) |
Our Burlington dentists will review your specific case and recommend the option that best fits your clinical needs and lifestyle.
Cost of Invisalign in Burlington
The cost of Invisalign at Dentistry at LaSalle depends on the complexity and length of your treatment. Factors that influence pricing include:
- Severity of misalignment
- Number of aligner sets required
- Whether additional treatments (e.g., attachments or refinements) are needed
Many dental insurance plans in Ontario cover a portion of orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign. Our team will verify your benefits and walk you through out-of-pocket costs before you commit. We also offer flexible payment options to keep treatment accessible for families across Burlington and the Halton Region.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Most cases at our Burlington practice are completed in 12 to 18 months, though minor alignment issues may be resolved in as few as six months. Your custom treatment plan will include an estimated timeline.
Does Invisalign hurt?
You may feel mild pressure for a day or two when you switch to a new set of aligners — this is a sign that the teeth are moving. The discomfort is generally less than what patients experience with traditional braces. If needed, sedation dentistry options are available for related procedures.
Can I eat and drink with Invisalign aligners in?
You should remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. This prevents staining and damage to the aligner material. Simply brush your teeth before reinserting them.
How many hours a day do I need to wear the aligners?
For best results, wear your aligners 20 to 22 hours per day. Remove them only for meals, snacks, and oral hygiene.
Will I need a retainer after Invisalign?
Yes. Retainers are essential to prevent your teeth from shifting back. We will provide custom retainers and a wear schedule tailored to your case as part of your treatment at Dentistry at LaSalle.
Start Your Invisalign Journey in Burlington
Dentistry at LaSalle offers comprehensive care — from family check-ups to dental implants and cosmetic treatments — all under one roof. Our modern technology, including laser dentistry and guided biofilm therapy, ensures every visit is efficient and comfortable.
Request an appointment online or call our Burlington office to schedule your Invisalign consultation. We proudly serve patients from Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton, and the Halton Region.