# What is Invisalign?

## 1. What Is Invisalign®?

Invisalign® is a modern orthodontic system using custom-made, transparent plastic aligners to straighten teeth gradually without metal brackets, wires, or bands.

## 2. Issues Treated

Modern Invisalign® clear aligners treat a wide spectrum of functional and aesthetic orthodontic concerns, including:

- **Crowding & Spacing:** Gaps, overlapping teeth, and mild to moderate crowding.
- **Bite Misalignments:** Overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites.
- **Orthodontic Relapse:** Teeth that have shifted after previous braces.

## 3. How the Treatment Works

1. **Digital Smile Mapping:** 3D digital imaging scans teeth accurately without messy traditional molds, mapping out progression and projected final results.
2. **Custom Trays:** Patients receive a sequential series of aligners designed to move teeth in increments.
3. **Daily Wear:** Aligners must be worn **20–22 hours per day**, removed only for eating, drinking non-water beverages, and brushing/flossing.
4. **Duration & Check-ins:** Most cases are completed in **12–18 months**, with check-in visits every few weeks to monitor progress and receive the next sets of aligners.
5. **Post-Treatment:** Retainers are typically recommended following treatment to maintain alignment.

## 4. Key Advantages

- **Discreet Appearance:** Clear plastic trays make treatment virtually unnoticeable.
- **Enhanced Comfort:** Smooth plastic avoids mouth and gum irritation common with metal brackets and wires.
- **Dietary Freedom:** Trays are removable, meaning no food restrictions.
- **Simple Oral Hygiene:** Patients remove trays to brush and floss normally, lowering the risk of plaque accumulation and decay.
- **Predictable Results:** Advanced 3D digital planning maps out each movement prior to starting.

## 5. Daily Care & Compliance Tips

- Clean aligners with lukewarm water and a soft-bristled toothbrush (avoid hot water, which can warp trays).
- Brush teeth before reinserting aligners after meals.
- Avoid drinking coffee, soda, or colored drinks with aligners in to prevent staining.

## 6. Practice Details

- **Providers:** Dr. Zachary Taylor & Dr. Chris Minert (Certified Invisalign® Providers)
- **Address:** 4266 N Eagle Rd., Boise, ID 83713
- **Phone:** (208) 939-7053
- **Service Area:** Boise, Meridian, Eagle, and surrounding Ada County communities

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Source: https://www-boisedentistry-com.pages.dev/knowledge/what-is-invisalign/
Updated: 2026-09-26T22:36:53Z