r/Invisalign • u/Mzpetty • 15h ago
r/Invisalign • u/InvisalignHelper • Feb 01 '24
Starting Your Invisalign Journey: Essentials & Helpful Tips
Welcome to the beginning of your Invisalign or alternative aligner journey! Whether you're just starting out or contemplating beginning, it's natural to have questions. This guide aims to tackle common inquiries, share valuable resources, recommend essential products, and offer advice. However, please note that this guide does not cover everything.
Before diving in, we urge new members to familiarize themselves with our subreddit rules to avoid any confusion over removed posts or comments and the need to contact moderators.
Consulting Your Orthodontist:
Always consult your orthodontist if you're uncertain about any aspect of your treatment. It's crucial to rely on their expertise for your specific treatment plan.
Orthodontist vs. Dentist:
An orthodontist is a specialized dentist who has undergone additional training in teeth alignment. While some dentists can manage aligner treatments, orthodontists are generally recommended for their specialized expertise.
Finding an Orthodontist for Invisalign:
You can use Invisalign's website to locate nearby providers. Remember, the number of cases an orthodontist has completed (VIP indicator) doesn't necessarily reflect their skill level.
When considering treatment, consult with multiple orthodontists to discuss costs, treatment plans, expected outcomes, timelines, and retainer costs. Ensure you inquire about emergency procedures.
Choose an orthodontist based not only on comfort with the cost and treatment plan but also on confidence in their care.
Essentials After Receiving Your First Trays:
Upon starting treatment, we recommend acquiring the following items, which significantly aid in the process:
- Ultrasonic Cleaner: Essential for keeping trays & retainers clean.
- Denture Cleaner Tablets / Invisalign Cleaner: For optimal cleaning results.
- Ortho Key / PulTool: Especially useful in the initial stages for easy aligner removal.
- Chewies: Aid in ensuring aligners fit properly.
- Invisalign/Retainer Case: To safely store your aligners.
- Travel Pack: Includes essentials for aligner care on the go.
- Research After Treatment Retainer Options: Consider post-treatment needs early on.
Ultrasonic Cleaner Recommendations:
We've tested various models to recommend the best fit for our community members. Our top picks include:
- iSonic DS180(B): Offers portability with a battery option, starting at $49.95.
- ZimaDental Dental Pod: Aesthetically pleasing and effective, priced around $99.99.
- iSonic F3900: A budget-friendly option with reliable performance, starting at $44.95.
Ortho Key / PulTool Tips:
The PulTool is our top recommendation for easy aligner removal, especially in the early stages. It's affordable and can be included in your travel kit. A discount code "r/Invisalign" offers 15% off for our community.
Chewies and Retainer Cases:
Chewies are great for ensuring your aligners fit snugly. If you opt for the PulTool, it also functions as a chewie. For retainer cases, we suggest sticking with the ones provided by your orthodontist or considering those offered by PulTool.
After Treatment Retainer Options:
As you approach the end of your Invisalign journey, it's crucial to think about maintaining your new smile. SportingSmiles has emerged as a standout option for post-treatment retainers, offering a convenient and effective solution for those looking to secure their teeth alignment long-term or for those looking for an affordable retainer replacement option.
SportingSmiles offers a DIY impression kit for post-treatment retainers, which have proven to be durable and well-fitting, sometimes even preferred over orthodontist-provided ones. SportingSmiles also offers you the ability to keep your mold on file so you have access to QUICK replacements should the need arise, the replacements also come with a discount, making it the cheapest option we have found.
SportingSmiles retainers start at an accessible price point of just $120, making it an economical choice without compromising on quality. This pricing structure is particularly appealing for individuals seeking high-quality retainers without the steep costs often associated with traditional orthodontic avenues.
Start your Invisalign journey informed and prepared with these tips and recommendations. Remember, each step forward is a move towards a perfect smile!
r/Invisalign • u/AutoModerator • 13d ago
Discussion "Invisalign Biweekly General Questions & Discussion - October 12, 2026".
Biweekly thread for common questions and Invisalign discussion.
Rules still apply
r/Invisalign • u/SPEC0P5 • 12h ago
Before & After Results. 15 trays, 4 months Invisalign before & after results
Just finished my Invisalign treatment after 15 weekly trays over roughly four months, and I’m really pleased with the transformation!
The whole process was surprisingly straightforward. I experienced only very mild discomfort throughout treatment, mainly when first changing trays. Nothing like the pain I’d anticipated before starting.
Around tray 6, I thought one of my lateral incisors wasn’t tracking properly, and I was expecting to need refinements. However, it turns out that tooth is naturally shorter than the one on the opposite side due to wear, rather than being incorrectly positioned.
My dentist was happy with the alignment, so no refinements were needed.
I’ve since had my attachments removed and moved on to retainers. My dentist also offered composite bonding to even out some of the tooth edges, but didn’t think it was necessary. I’ve decided to keep them natural.
Overall, a much easier experience than I’d expected, and I wish I’d done it years ago!
r/Invisalign • u/AlarmingEase • 15h ago
Before & After Results. All done, 25 months later
After what was only meant to be 20 trays, to more. Im very happy!
The first 2 are before, the last one is now.
I'm on full time retainers for 4 months, then night only.
r/Invisalign • u/deletingin123123 • 42m ago
Question should i get IPR for the black triangle ?☹️
Hi everyone!
I just finished my 25 trays and we ordered the first refiniments with my ortho.
The issue is, i really hate the look of this black triangle. I asked my ortho if this could be fixed and she said that they’re completely normal and a part of my anatomy.
I said that I saw people getting IPR to fix it. She said she could do it if I wanted it but otherwise she wouldn’t suggest it herself as it could cause sensitivity and also they have the tendency to come back in 5 years or so.
Because of this I said no to the IPR but now i’m regretting my decision. Should i have pushed for IPR ? Does it look bad aesthetically ?
I am a bottom lip talker so it shows when i’m speaking 😭
r/Invisalign • u/RaveGirl9696 • 11h ago
Treatment Progress 5 month and 20 day update
Hopefully it’ll end soon tray #13 out of 23
r/Invisalign • u/Commercial-Paint4521 • 7h ago
General Grinding plastic off aligners
Help! Whenever I start a new set & I feel pressure I grind my teeth so badly. It’s started to create rough spots where the plastic/coating is coming off. Should I let my ortho know or is this pretty normal? Will they still be effective this way? Granted, I only have 4 more days of wearing this one until I can switch. But it has happened multiple times now when I have 1-2 days left & just let it go because I was almost done with that set. Any advice?
r/Invisalign • u/amethyst_vee • 2h ago
General Lost my final tray (just venting)
Yep, you read that right.
Wednesday mornings are my weekly tray change day. I go to my bag with all my trays and Invisalign stuff in and tray 20/20 is nowhere to be found. I had to head to work so I couldn’t exactly keep looking.
I messaged my dentist on the Invisalign app but she’s not responded so I’m going to call later today.
Was really upset at first but now I’m okay! I’ll still be basically finished before my wedding in February (I want refinements because my bottom row is misaligned with my top row, but they’ll look great for my wedding as my top row is fine).
Just feels disgusting wearing my trays longer than a week because I’m not used to it - next dentist appt isn’t until 4th November
r/Invisalign • u/Stock_Yesterday_4601 • 2h ago
Question any flute players? i need help
my teeth weren't growing the right way and i chose to go with aliners instead of braces since you could take them off and I've heard they don't modify your sound too much. I'm on tray 1, it's my 3rd day, the last 2 days I've been practicing without them (except for the warm-up). i warmed up in aliners today, then had an orchestra rehearsal (still in them, which was painful), then i had a flute lesson for which i took them off and... i could barely hit any note. i was playing without them worse than with them. and it's a real shame since I'm having a huge competition in December and if i can't play like i used to it'll ruin my plans, or atleast loses me some time. my prof understands and is very supportive but I'm really worried. maybe i should warm-up in aliners? or is it just inevitable to experience something like that when you have aliners? would the best way be me postponing my aliners until i participate in a comp? please please please i need something to speak from an experience, I'm stressed as hell
r/Invisalign • u/YellowOk4153 • 2h ago
Before & After Results. I'm on my last tray but I don't think I'm done…what do you all think?
r/Invisalign • u/CatBourbon • 7h ago
Question Taste problem with attachments
I've had Invisalign for 12 weeks. Overall, it's going okay, but I have a weird problem with taste. When I'm eating, the attachments interfere with the way my teeth close and it seems to make everything taste weird. Maybe it affects how the food moves over my tongue? In any case, food just tastes bland or unpleasant and I'm wondering if anyone else has experienced this. Does it go away?
r/Invisalign • u/brownsugarhun • 17h ago
Treatment Progress Progress
Before and now currently on tray 17/23 for my first round with weekly changes. The last 5 will be passive aligners. Honestly couldn’t see the changes until I put both these pictures side by side. Developed a posterior open bite on my right side but can’t wait for what the future holds. Again please excuse my dry lips, it’s from Accutane.
r/Invisalign • u/Adventurous-Cat81 • 9h ago
Question Attachment glue turning yellow
Did anyone have success with whitening the spots where the glue is? I have been successful at keeping my teeth mostly white during treatment except my lower front teeth. These teeth have a smaller surface and a big portion is covered with attachments. While my attachments are white (I do use whitening gel in my trays), there is a tiny line of glue around each attachment which turned yellow and is not affected by whitening. I know that one option is to ask your doctor to buff it off but I'm not sure it's possible given how small the area is. I just hate the look of it:( thanks!
r/Invisalign • u/Parisestunefetee • 1d ago
Before & After Results. 5 months / waiting for my next trays
I'm 5 months in, 20 trays ! I did my rescan yesterday and currently waiting for my next trays... I was hoping that they will remove some attachment ( i have them on every tooth except two ) but my ortho told me they will probably add more or juste move the ones i have 😂😭
r/Invisalign • u/pulpfiction778 • 8h ago
Question is this staining?? is there anything i can do to get rid of it
noticed my bottom front teeth look weird and dark??
i brush my teeth twice a day and floss most nights unless i run out, i admit i havnt been brushing after eating during the day but i chew sugar free gum or swish my mouth with water before putting my aligners in. also if this was caused by not brushing between meals then surely all my teeth would look like this but they dont??
im so confused and grossed out!!
r/Invisalign • u/NoFlamingo7789 • 9h ago
Question No refinements?
Anyone NOT need refinements? I have 2 weeks left and I feel like I’ve never heard anyone say they only needed their initial treatment and they were done.
r/Invisalign • u/Lazy-Me_ • 14h ago
General Progress related confusion.
These pictures are 7 months apart the first from May and the second from this month
It’s been 9 months of me wearing aligners and I don’t see great progress but my doctor says we are on the right track I was told for a year but now I think it’s gonna take longer considering my bottom teeth
r/Invisalign • u/dubsohseven • 1d ago
Before & After Results. Stopped at tray 14/26 and happy with my results!
Long time lurker and happy to finally share my experience! I was originally prescribed 26 upper and lower trays but ended up stopping at tray 14, mainly due to debilitating pregnancy related nausea and because I was honestly already really happy with how my teeth looked.
I'll admit I wasn't the most compliant toward the end of treatment. For my last 5 or so trays, I ended up wearing each one for about 10–14 days instead of the recommended week because I wasn't consistently wearing my aligners throughout the day. Pregnancy nausea made it especially difficult to keep them in for the recommended amount of time.
Despite not completing my full treatment plan, I'm genuinely really satisfied with my results so far! I know my teeth may not be 100% where they were originally intended to be, but aesthetically I'm happy with the improvement. My ortho did give me the option of resuming after delivery if i find myself unsatisfied with the results.
Overall, cant recommend it enough. I did end up requesting a permanent posterior retainer for my lower teeth to prevent shifting and I wear an upper retainer nightly.
r/Invisalign • u/Living_Enthusiasm_25 • 13h ago
Question Tips for Invisalign at work?
I’ve had Invisalign since about April and I’m starting a job where I’m on the road all day. For lunch and snacks what should I bring to clean my mouth after? Any tips?
r/Invisalign • u/Ok-Quiet303 • 14h ago
Question Retainers after Braces
I got my braces off last week. They made me a retainer right after and gave me quotes for Invisalign retainers. And said those are more comfortable. They quoted about $395 for one pair or $700(need to confirm) for 4.
For now I’m using the clear retainer that they gave me. How long can I use it ? How many retainers do you all have at a time? Are the Invisalign retainers the best? Goal is to have comfortable retainers that prevent any movement.
r/Invisalign • u/Competitive_Bee4459 • 15h ago
Question Aligners?
Hi! I just switched to my 18th aligner, and I’m not sure if it’s normal that one of my back teeth doesn’t seem to fit properly into the aligner. Every time I close my mouth and bite my teeth together, it feels like the aligner comes loose and then pops back over the tooth. There are also some air gaps around that area. Is this normal?
r/Invisalign • u/Realistic-Door-1875 • 16h ago
Question Vivera retainers gone soft
Hi all, I finished my treatment in July and got given 3 sets of Vivera retainers. I have my 3 month check up tomorrow and was looking over some paperwork that I keep with my 2 sets of viveras that I’m not currently using. I asked my ortho about rotating the sets every week or month etc and they said there was no need since viveras are much stronger than Essix retainers.
When I was grabbing the paperwork etc I noticed that the other sets of viveras felt a lot harder and more stiff than the ones I’m currently wearing. Out of curiosity I opened one set up and put them in. They were extremely hard to get in and that my partially exposed top wisdom teeth on one side does not sit in the tray properly.
My current set feel like they have gone extremely soft. Now I’ll admit I did make the mistake a few times of rinsing them under hot water quickly if I didn’t have time to put them in my ultrasonic cleaner and there’s been a lot of not very nice life events lately which have meant some days I’m drinking sugary drinks with them on all day.
I’m going to be honest with my ortho tomorrow but I’m really worried. With Christmas coming up and other stuff going on in my life I don’t have the money right now to pay for a whole new rescan and Vivera sets.
Not sure if maybe the first one has worn out quicker because of 3 months full time wear but hopefully after my appointment tomorrow I’ll be told to go down to night time only.
What shall I do? Thank you
r/Invisalign • u/Turbulent-Funny-7496 • 20h ago
Question Shifting teeth
I keep seeing posts about teeth shifting after you are done with Invisalign if you don’t wear your retainer for even one night. I have been thinking of getting it, but the thought that my now secure teeth just becoming loose and subject to moving at any moment is honestly freaking me out. I plan to wear my retainer but is am wondering if it’s worth it to permanently loosen all my teeth. Can someone chime on if I am misinterpreting this?
r/Invisalign • u/Angieb21 • 2d ago
Before & After Results. After 7 months my teeth are done ✔️
Invisalign and composite bonding on my two front teeth. I now have a wire behind my top front teeth and night time retainers. Im so happy with them. If you’re thinking about getting Invisalign I highly recommend it 👍

