Invisalign®
A straighter smile does not have to involve traditional metal braces. At Metrotown Orthodontics, we offer Invisalign in Burnaby as a discreet, comfortable, and convenient way to straighten teeth and improve your smile.
Invisalign uses a series of customized clear aligners that gradually move your teeth into their ideal positions. Because the aligners are removable and nearly invisible, Invisalign is a popular orthodontic option for adults and teenagers who want an effective treatment that fits their lifestyle.
Whether you have crowded teeth, gaps, or bite concerns, our orthodontic team can determine whether Invisalign is the right solution for your smile.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an advanced orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners instead of traditional brackets and wires.
Each set of Invisalign aligners is custom-made to apply gentle pressure to specific teeth, gradually guiding them into proper alignment.
Unlike braces, Invisalign aligners can be removed when eating, brushing, and flossing, making them a popular choice for patients who want a more flexible orthodontic experience.
How Does Invisalign Work?
The Invisalign process at Metrotown Orthodontics begins with a personalized consultation.
Step 1: Invisalign Consultation
During your consultation, our orthodontist will evaluate:
- Your teeth alignment
- Your bite
- Your smile goals
- Whether Invisalign is appropriate for your case
We will explain your treatment options and answer any questions you may have.
Step 2: Customized Treatment Planning
Using advanced orthodontic technology, we create a customized treatment plan designed specifically for your smile.
Your treatment plan will show:
- How your teeth will move
- Estimated treatment timeline
- Expected results
Step 3: Wearing Your Clear Aligners
You will receive a series of custom Invisalign aligners that gradually move your teeth.
Most patients wear each set of aligners for approximately 1–2 weeks before moving to the next set.
For the best results, aligners should typically be worn about 20–22 hours per day.
Step 4: Maintaining Your New Smile
After completing Invisalign treatment, wearing retainers helps maintain your results and prevents your teeth from shifting.
Benefits of Invisalign Clear Aligners
Many patients choose Invisalign because it offers a combination of effectiveness, comfort, and convenience.
Nearly Invisible Appearance
Invisalign aligners are made from clear material, making them much less noticeable than traditional braces.
This makes Invisalign especially popular among:
- Working professionals
- University students
- Adults concerned about appearance
- Teens who prefer a discreet option
Removable Design
Because Invisalign aligners are removable, you can continue enjoying your favourite foods without many of the restrictions associated with braces.
You can remove your aligners when:
- Eating meals
- Drinking certain beverages
- Brushing your teeth
- Flossing
Easier Oral Hygiene
Traditional braces can make cleaning around brackets and wires more challenging.
With Invisalign, you can remove your aligners and maintain your normal brushing and flossing routine.
Comfortable Treatment Experience
Invisalign aligners are smooth and custom-designed for your teeth, reducing many of the irritation issues sometimes associated with metal brackets and wires.
Invisalign vs Traditional Braces: Which Is Better?
Both Invisalign and braces are effective orthodontic treatments. The best option depends on your specific dental needs, lifestyle, and treatment goals.
Invisalign May Be a Good Choice If You:
- Want a discreet orthodontic option
- Prefer removable aligners
- Have mild to moderate alignment concerns
- Want fewer food restrictions
- Prefer easier brushing and flossing
Traditional Braces May Be Recommended If You:
- Have more complex orthodontic issues
- Require significant tooth movement
- Need precise control over certain movements
During your consultation, our orthodontist will recommend the treatment option that provides the best results for your smile.
Who Is a Candidate for Invisalign?
Invisalign can be an excellent option for many teens and adults.
It may help correct:
- Crooked teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Mild to moderate bite issues
- Relapse after previous orthodontic treatment
However, every smile is unique. A consultation with an orthodontist is the best way to determine whether Invisalign is right for you.
Invisalign for Adults in Burnaby
Many adults choose Invisalign because it fits easily into busy lifestyles.
Adults often appreciate Invisalign because:
- Aligners are discreet in professional settings
- There are fewer dietary restrictions
- Oral hygiene is easier to maintain
- Treatment can be planned around work and personal commitments
If you have always wanted a straighter smile but avoided braces, Invisalign may provide the solution you have been looking for.
Invisalign for Teens in Burnaby
Teenagers often choose Invisalign because they want an orthodontic option that is less noticeable.
Invisalign Teen can help teens achieve a healthier smile while allowing them to continue participating in:
- Sports
- School activities
- Social events
- Everyday activities
Our orthodontic team will evaluate whether Invisalign Teen is suitable based on your teenager’s orthodontic needs.
How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?
Treatment time varies depending on:
- The complexity of your orthodontic concerns
- How consistently aligners are worn
- The amount of tooth movement required
Many Invisalign treatments take approximately 6 to 18 months, although some cases may require more or less time.
Your orthodontist will provide a personalized estimate during your consultation.
Why Choose Metrotown Orthodontics for Invisalign?
Choosing the right Invisalign provider is an important step toward achieving your ideal smile.
At Metrotown Orthodontics, we provide:
- Experienced orthodontic care in Burnaby
- Customized Invisalign treatment plans
- Advanced orthodontic technology
- Treatment options for teens and adults
- Personalized attention throughout your orthodontic journey
Our goal is to make Invisalign treatment comfortable, predictable, and effective.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
Invisalign® corrects the same dental problems as traditional metal braces; the only difference is that Invisalign® trays are almost invisible to the naked eye, and can be removed at will.
- Overcrowding – This occurs when there is too little space for the teeth to align normally in the mouth. Overcrowding can cause tooth decay and increase the likelihood of gum disease.
- Large gaps between teeth – This can sometimes occur because teeth are missing or because the jaw continues to grow abnormally.
- Crossbite – This common dental problem occurs when one or multiple upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth. As a consequence, uneven wear can lead to bone erosion and gum disease.
- Overbite – This problem occurs when the upper teeth project further than, or completely cover, the lower teeth. Eventually, jaw pain and TMJ may occur.
- Underbite – This is the inverse of the overbite; the lower teeth project further than, or completely cover, the upper teeth. Eventually, jaw pain and TMJ can occur.
Traditional dental braces, Invisalign® aligning trays and dental veneers are three different ways to perfect the alignment of the teeth. There are many different considerations to make when considering which treatment will be best, and each of these options works better in certain situations.
Invisalign® differs from traditional braces in that the aligning trays are fully removable. This means that more discipline and commitment is required from the patient. This is not usually a problem since the trays are comfortable and nearly invisible. Almost identical results can be obtained by using either treatment.
Invisalign® is preferable to veneers in many cases because unlike veneers, Invisalign® actually straightens the teeth. Veneers are thin covers that the dentist permanently affixes to the teeth. Teeth must be etched beforehand, meaning that to remove dental veneers, an alternative covering must be constructed. In addition to being somewhat expensive, veneers can break and often last for less than 20 years.
First, the dentist needs to devise an initial treatment plan before creating the special aligning trays. Three-dimensional digital images are taken of the entire jaw. These images allow the dentist to move specific teeth on the screen, view the jaw from different angles, and also foresee what the face might look like in years to come. In essence, this technology can show how Invisalign® trays will change the facial aesthetics.
Once planning is complete, a unique set of aligners is made. The total amount of aligners required varies with each individual case, but 20-29 sets per arch is typical.
Life with Invisalign® aligning trays may take several weeks to get used to. The trays should be worn constantly, except when eating and drinking. It is important to remove the trays when consuming food or drink because food can become trapped between the tray and the teeth, causing tooth decay.
Usually, new trays are necessary every two weeks and progress between appointments can be seen with the naked eye. There is no doubt that Invisalign® aligning trays have revolutionized orthodontics. Invisalign® is renowned for being both comfortable and effective.
The cost of Invisalign depends on the complexity of your case, treatment length, and number of aligners required. A consultation is the best way to receive an accurate estimate.
Usually, new trays are necessary every two weeks and progress between appointments can be seen with the naked eye. There is no doubt that Invisalign® aligning trays have revolutionized orthodontics. Invisalign® is renowned for being both comfortable and effective.
Neither option is better for every patient. Invisalign and braces both provide excellent results, but the best choice depends on your orthodontic needs and lifestyle preferences.
Yes. Invisalign can correct many cases of crowded teeth by gradually creating proper alignment.
Yes. Invisalign aligners are removable, allowing you to eat your favourite foods. You should remove your aligners before eating and clean your teeth before putting them back in.
For the best results, most patients should wear Invisalign aligners approximately 20–22 hours per day.
