Your smile is front and center in everything you do—like meeting friends at Shadow Lake Towne Center, networking at a local event, or snapping family photos at Halleck Park. If you’ve been considering orthodontic treatment but don’t love the idea of braces, Invisalign offers a nearly invisible, flexible alternative. Dr. Hawley and Dr. Brace at Hawley Orthodontics help adults get the smile they want without the hassle of brackets and wires. Let’s explore what makes Invisalign a top choice for busy professionals, parents, and anyone looking for a seamless way to improve their smile.
Why More Adults Are Choosing Invisalign
More adults than ever are turning to Invisalign for a low-profile, convenient alternative. These clear aligners make it possible to improve your smile without the noticeable brackets and wires that come with traditional braces. Since they’re removable, there are no food restrictions, no complicated cleaning routines, and no disruptions to your normal routine.
Dr. Hawley and Dr. Brace craft each Invisalign plan with precision, tailoring treatment to fit your lifestyle and smile goals. With its growing popularity among adults, it’s worth understanding how this high-tech system actually works—let’s break it down.
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign is a carefully planned, high-tech process designed for comfort and efficiency. Here’s what you can expect when starting treatment with Dr. Hawley and Dr. Brace at Hawley Orthodontics:
Custom Fit, Custom Results
- Every Invisalign treatment starts with a digital scan—no messy impressions are required.
- Using advanced technology, Dr. Hawley and Dr. Brace map out each tooth’s movement to design a precise, step-by-step plan.
- Your custom aligners are then created to shift your teeth into place gradually.
Wearing Your Aligners
- Each set of aligners is worn for about one week before switching to the next.
- Aligners should be worn 20-22 hours a day—only removing them to eat, drink, brush, and floss.
- Since they’re made from smooth, BPA-free plastic, they’re comfortable and won’t irritate your mouth like traditional braces.
Check-Ins and Progress
- No wire adjustments—just quick progress check-ins every few weeks.
- Dr. Hawley and Dr. Brace monitor your treatment to make sure everything is moving on schedule.
- Most adults complete their Invisalign treatment in 12 to 18 months, though some cases may take less time.
Now that we’ve covered how Invisalign works let’s take a look at what kind of commitment is needed to get the best results.
What Adults Should Expect
Invisalign fits into a busy lifestyle, but like anything worth doing, it takes consistency to see results. If you’re considering clear aligners, here’s what to keep in mind:
Wear Time Matters
Invisalign aligners need to be worn 20-22 hours a day for the best results. Skipping or forgetting to wear them can slow progress and extend treatment time.
The good news? Since they’re clear and comfortable, most patients hardly notice them after the first few days.
Switching Aligners on Schedule
You’ll change to a new set of aligners every week or so, gradually shifting your teeth into place. Unlike braces, there are no wire tightenings—just smooth transitions from one set of aligners to the next.
Quick & Easy Check-Ins
Dr. Hawley and Dr. Brace will monitor your progress with check-ins every 8-10 weeks to make sure everything stays on track. These visits are shorter than traditional orthodontic appointments—perfect for adults balancing work, family, and other commitments.
Consistency is the key to success with Invisalign. Now that we’ve covered the commitment let’s talk about one of the biggest perks—eating without restrictions.
Eat What You Love (With a Few Considerations)
One of the biggest perks of Invisalign? No food restrictions! Since the aligners are removable, you can still enjoy all your favorite foods without worrying about breaking a bracket or dealing with food stuck in wires. Dr. Hawley and Dr. Brace often hear from patients at Hawley Orthodontics how much they appreciate being able to keep their normal eating habits while straightening their teeth.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind:
- Always remove your aligners before eating—chewing with them in can damage the plastic.
- Rinse your mouth and brush your teeth before putting them back in to keep aligners clear and free of food particles.
- Be mindful of drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine—they can stain aligners, so consider using a straw or removing them while drinking.
With a little extra care, Invisalign makes it easy to enjoy meals without sacrificing progress. Now that we’ve covered food let’s go over how to keep your aligners fresh and clean.
Keeping Aligners Clean and Crystal Clear
Invisalign aligners are designed to be nearly invisible, but keeping them that way takes a little effort. Dr. Hawley and Dr. Brace always remind patients at Hawley Orthodontics that proper cleaning helps prevent stains, odors, and bacteria buildup. The good news? It’s simple to keep aligners fresh with just a few easy habits.
Daily Cleaning Routine
- Rinse aligners every time you remove them to wash away saliva and food particles.
- Brush them gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap—toothpaste can be too abrasive and cause cloudiness.
- Use Invisalign cleaning crystals or retainer cleaner for a deeper clean a few times a week.
- Never use hot water—it can warp the plastic and affect the fit.
Sticking to a simple cleaning routine helps keep your aligners clear, comfortable, and working as they should. Invisalign makes straightening your teeth a seamless part of daily life, giving you the flexibility and confidence to enjoy the process!
A Clear Choice for a Better Smile
Invisalign lets you straighten your teeth without putting your life on pause. With a nearly invisible design, no food restrictions, and an easy cleaning routine, it’s no wonder so many adults are choosing this treatment. Dr. Hawley and Dr. Brace at Hawley Orthodontics create custom Invisalign plans that fit your needs and lifestyle. Schedule a complimentary consultation at our Papillion office today!