Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign® Treatment
Considering Invisalign clear aligners to enhance your smile? You probably have questions about the treatment process. We've gathered the questions we hear most frequently from patients interested in Invisalign treatment, covering everything from the fundamentals to daily aligner maintenance.
At Serenity Dental, we believe in making your path to a straighter smile clear and worry-free. Take a moment to review these common questions about how Invisalign treatment fits into your everyday life. If you don't see your particular question answered here, Dr. Nair would be happy to discuss your specific concerns during a personal consultation.
How does Invisalign treatment work?
Invisalign treatment straightens teeth using a series of custom-made transparent aligners rather than traditional metal orthodontics. You'll progress through multiple sets of precisely engineered aligners, wearing each pair for one to two weeks before advancing to the next set in your sequence. At Serenity Dental, we create a computerized treatment simulation that shows the step-by-step transformation of your smile from beginning to completion.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
The average Invisalign treatment completes in 12 months. To achieve optimal results, aligners should remain in place for at least 22 hours daily. They should only be removed during meals, drinking anything besides water, and for oral hygiene routines. We'll schedule periodic checkups to monitor your progress and ensure your smile transformation stays on schedule.
Does Invisalign treatment feel uncomfortable?
You may experience temporary pressure sensations for several days after inserting a new aligner set. This mild discomfort actually indicates successful treatment progress as your teeth gradually shift position. You'll find Invisalign treatment is significantly more comfortable than conventional braces since there are no metal components to cause mouth irritation. Over-the-counter pain medication can effectively manage any temporary soreness if necessary.
Can I eat and drink normally with Invisalign aligners?
You must remove your aligners before consuming anything except water. This actually provides greater dietary freedom than fixed braces, since you can enjoy all foods without restrictions. Always brush your teeth before reinserting aligners to prevent discoloration and decay. Remember that maintaining the recommended 22-24 hours of daily wear is crucial for achieving your treatment timeline and desired results.
What happens after my Invisalign treatment is complete?
Following your Invisalign treatment, retainers become essential for preserving your newly aligned smile. Consistent retainer use prevents teeth from gradually shifting back toward their original positions. Retainers are necessary as long as you wish to maintain your results. We'll provide custom-fitted retainers along with specific care instructions to protect your investment in your beautiful new smile.
Is Invisalign treatment suitable for teenagers?
Absolutely! We offer specialized Invisalign products designed for patients of all ages and their unique orthodontic needs. We successfully treat patients throughout all life stages from childhood through adulthood. Our treatment options are comprehensive and effective.
How do I get started with Invisalign treatment?
Beginning your Invisalign journey is straightforward. Simply schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Nair to evaluate your candidacy for clear aligner therapy. During this appointment, we'll thoroughly examine your teeth, discuss your smile goals, and address your questions. If you choose to proceed, we'll capture digital impressions of your teeth to develop your personalized treatment plan. You'll preview your potential smile transformation before your aligners are even manufactured.
Is Invisalign treatment right for me?
Absolutely! Invisalign therapy effectively addresses a wide variety of orthodontic concerns for patients seeking smile enhancement. The system works exceptionally well for correcting crowded teeth, closing gaps, and resolving various bite issues. We achieve outstanding outcomes for patients across all age groups, from children to seniors. During your consultation, we'll evaluate your specific situation and design a treatment approach tailored to your individual needs.
After years of avoiding the dentist because of anxiety I decided I want to get my teeth sorted out before I’m 40. I could not have picked a better practice. From the moment you walk in the staff are gentle and attentive. Esme was my hygenist for my deep clean. I felt really cared for by her...
After years of avoiding the dentist because of anxiety I decided I want to get my teeth sorted out before I’m 40. I could not have picked a better practice. From the moment you walk in the staff are gentle and attentive. Esme was my hygenist for my deep clean. I felt really cared for by her demeanor and level of skill. The handoff to the front desk staff (Hi Anastasia and Bailey!) was seamless. Dr. Nair made a treatment plan for me that feels approachable, especially with the care for anxious patients Serenity provides. Worth the drive from central Austin!
A. W. (Verified Patient)
Very competent, well organized and friendly. They are are committed as a team to offer the highest level of dental care.
Verified Patient
Edit: I absolutely love Dr. Rao as well, both her and Dr. Nair are amazing dentist. Also I'd like to give a shoutout to the front desk team, Bailey and Anastasia, they are the sweetest. They’re always welcoming, super helpful with scheduling, and make the whole experience so easy from start to...
Edit: I absolutely love Dr. Rao as well, both her and Dr. Nair are amazing dentist. Also I'd like to give a shoutout to the front desk team, Bailey and Anastasia, they are the sweetest. They’re always welcoming, super helpful with scheduling, and make the whole experience so easy from start to finish. The office itself is clean, calm, and has such a welcoming vibe.
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Dr. Nair is an excellent dentist. I recently relocated to Austin from Seattle and was worrying about looking for a new dentist, but I got lucky I found Dr. Nair. She is a professional and has a naturally lovely personality. We had a little chat after my care and I love talking to her :) On top of that, she took extra time to explain every procedure she was doing to me and make sure that I am always comfortable.
Not to mention, the whole staff crews are so nice. I tested positive for covid a couple of days before the appointment. I tried calling the office but realized they are closed due to the holiday. I sent them an email and to my surprise, they called me right away to inform me it is okay to reschedule when I'm feeling better. The staff also waived my last-minute cancelation fee ~
The whole experience was 10/5 ✨✨✨ I would recommend Dr. Nair and this business to everyone. She and the team are the best dental crew in town!
K. M. (Verified Patient)
I just spent nearly four hours at Serenity Dental, and somehow it felt more like a mini-vacation than a dental appointment — that’s how exceptional this place is. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere truly lived up to the name Serenity. The environment is calming, beautifully...
I just spent nearly four hours at Serenity Dental, and somehow it felt more like a mini-vacation than a dental appointment — that’s how exceptional this place is. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere truly lived up to the name Serenity. The environment is calming, beautifully maintained, and honestly unlike any dental office I’ve ever been to.
Dr. Brinda Nair is in a league of her own. Her skill, patience, and attention to detail made even a long, complex visit feel effortless. She explained everything clearly, checked in throughout the procedure, and made sure I was comfortable the entire time. You can tell she genuinely cares about both the results and the patient experience.
The staff deserves huge recognition as well — warm, attentive, and incredibly professional. They treat you like a person, not a chart, and that makes all the difference.
If you’re looking for dental care that feels luxurious, peaceful, and truly patient-centered, this is the place. Four hours in this office felt like time well spent, and I left not only with great results but feeling relaxed — something I’ve never said after a dental appointment.
Absolutely recommend Serenity Dental and Dr. Nair to anyone looking for top-tier care. don't grind when you see cuteness or else you'll need mouth guard
V. M. (Verified Patient)
Great friendly office! Anastasia is the best!
R. G. (Verified Patient)
As a person whose entire life, has been a struggle with crippling anxiety just walking in the front door of a dentist office.
I can tell you there is something different and wonderful about Brinda Nair, as a care giver, they have the care and the giving part down pat.
Moreover nothing feels...
As a person whose entire life, has been a struggle with crippling anxiety just walking in the front door of a dentist office.
I can tell you there is something different and wonderful about Brinda Nair, as a care giver, they have the care and the giving part down pat.
Moreover nothing feels painted on, there’s no contrivances, they’re trustworthy with their words and clear with their actions.
Put it this way, I moved almost one hour away from the office and still make the commute because it’s worth it to me. She has made a real and lasting difference in my life.
Jerry Wheat.
J. W. (Verified Patient)
Outstanding Care for the Whole Family!
Serenity Dental is hands-down the best family dental practice we've ever been to. Our entire family—my wife, our kids, and myself—all go here, and we couldn't be more impressed with the consistent, high-quality care we receive.
Dr. Nair is simply...
Outstanding Care for the Whole Family!
Serenity Dental is hands-down the best family dental practice we've ever been to. Our entire family—my wife, our kids, and myself—all go here, and we couldn't be more impressed with the consistent, high-quality care we receive.
Dr. Nair is simply wonderful, professional, and has a gentle approach that puts everyone at ease. Dr. Rao is equally fantastic and highly skilled. They both took the time to explain treatments clearly and ensure our kids felt comfortable from a young age. Now that our children are adults, they still make it a priority to schedule their appointments and come home from college during breaks just to see Dr. Nair a true testament to the exceptional care they provide.
The entire staff is friendly, efficient, and always goes the extra mile to make our appointments smooth and pleasant. If you're looking for a trustworthy, compassionate, and expert dentist for your family, we wholeheartedly recommend Serenity Dental.
Y. P. (Verified Patient)
Awesome work thanks
A. K. (Verified Patient)
The front desk was amazing!
S. W. (Verified Patient)
From start to finish the service was great. This was my first ever time seeing a dentist and getting dental work in all of my 33 years of life and I could do it again. My son also had an appointment. He had been traumatized by a recent, unrelated, hospital visit, and was unsure about seeing the...
From start to finish the service was great. This was my first ever time seeing a dentist and getting dental work in all of my 33 years of life and I could do it again. My son also had an appointment. He had been traumatized by a recent, unrelated, hospital visit, and was unsure about seeing the dentist. He was hesitant at first, but Dr. Nair walked him through his dental appointment. He started off turning his body sideways to avoid making eye contact, but in the end he ended up laying back and listening, even responding to her questions at times.
When it was my turn, I had Esmeralda as a hygienist. She walked me through the cleaning and was so reassuring and patient with me. With this being my first time ever seeing a dentist or getting dental work, I had no idea what to expect. There was a minimal amount of times I expressed discomfort and as soon as I did, she stopped immediately, applied more gel, then worked on another area until she discomforted area was for sure numb.
Dr. Nair literally walked me through it. As soon as I heard the drill come on, I felt a little anxiety. As soon as the filling started, I hear her not only comforting me through it but also coaching and explaining things to the assistant who was helping her at the time. As soon as a major part was done, she offered to take a break so that I can gather myself. I told her that it was not what I expected and went so smoothly that I was ready to start the next part right away. It was over before I knew it.
For my first dental appointment, this was not only thorough, but very comforting through the entire process. I don’t want to find a professional to help back home in the DFW, I am perfectly fine coming back to Dr. Nair’s office in the future.