Invisalign has turned out to be a revolutionary treatment for dental patients. These braces nearly invisible—hence the name—and a far more attractive option, visually speaking, for teenagers and adults alike, plus it is a much less painful procedure to undergo when compared to traditional metal braces. But the unknown still intimidates people, so it’s understandable that there should be plenty of frequently asked questions about Invisalign. Below you’ll find some common Invisalign FAQs that should help put at ease those who are considering this treatment.

Why should I get Invisalign?: This is by far the most popular Invisalign FAQ a dentist or orthodontist will field! Simply put, Invisalign is by far the best option for anyone who needs braces. Not only are they almost invisible, but Invisalign aligners can easily be removed. While it is suggested that aligners be worn most of the time—think between 20 and 22 hours a day—they can be taken out during meals as well as during the brushing of teeth. In addition, Invisalign patients are able to "virtually" see their treatment plan and results long before the procedure starts, which means they’ll be able to view the finished product instead of just investing hope in the fact their teeth will look better after wearing braces for two-plus years.

How does Invisalign work? Another of the most popular Invisalign FAQs. For all the negatives associated with braces, it’s easy to understand how they re-align teeth. But how can a mostly invisible contraption fix teeth? Think physics! Invisalign moves teeth via controlled force. Invisalign controls the force as well as the timing of it. The Invisalign process is broken up into stages and only certain teeth move during each stage. Dentists will discuss this with patients and let them know how the process will unfold during initial consultations.

How popular is Invisalign? More than 1.3 million people around the world have received Invisalign. That’s a fraction of the number of people who have worn braces, but the number of Invisalign wearers climbs every year as more and more patients recognize what an enticing option it is in comparison to braces.

How old does a patient have to be to be eligible for Invisalign? This Invisalign FAQ is posed as much by parents as it is eager teens. The good news is most teenagers who would get braces are old enough to get Invisalign. Anyone who has lost all of his or her baby teeth and has his or her second molars coming in should be eligible for the procedure.

How much does Invisalign cost? Of all the Invisalign FAQs, this is the big elephant in the corner of the room. Fortunately, Invisalign’s cost is comparable to those of braces—between $3,500 and $6,000. Insurance is always a challenge, but generally speaking, insurance providers who cover orthodontic procedures should cover Invisalign.

These are just a smattering of the Invisalign FAQs that patients most often have. If you have an Invisalign FAQ that wasn’t discussed here, contact your dentist or orthodontist, let him or her know your Invisalign FAQs today and see if Invisalign is right for you!