Blog Hero

How Does Invisalign Work?

Book Appointment
A smiling patient holds up their Invisalign retainer.

A beautiful and functional smile is one of the best investments we can make in ourselves. If you’ve been exploring ways to align your teeth, you’ve likely heard of Invisalign. Simply put, Invisalign uses clear, custom-fitted aligners to gradually adjust the position of your teeth, creating a straighter, healthier smile.

This innovative system has transformed the way we think about orthodontic treatment, combining proven techniques with modern technology. If you’re looking for a straighter smile, it’s worth talking to your dentist about Invisalign. 

Why Consider Invisalign?

Misaligned or crowded teeth are more than just a cosmetic concern—they can significantly impact your oral health. When teeth are crooked or overlap, it can be hard to clean them properly, increasing the risk of plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease. Bite issues, like overbites or underbites, can also create challenges with chewing, speaking, and even jaw discomfort over time.

Traditional braces have been the go-to solution for decades, but Invisalign offers a highly effective, discreet alternative, particularly for mild to moderate alignment issues. In fact, Invisalign has redefined how orthodontists approach teeth alignment for over 25 years, offering patients an option that doesn’t compromise their lifestyle.

What Makes Invisalign Different from Braces?

Both traditional braces and Invisalign work toward the same goal—gradually shifting your teeth into their ideal positions for a healthier, more functional smile. However, the way they achieve this goal differs.

Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires to apply constant pressure and adjust your teeth over time. While effective, they’re not removable, require ongoing adjustments, and can limit your food choices.

Invisalign works a bit differently—it uses a set of clear plastic aligners that are custom-made just for you. These aligners are removable, allowing you to eat, brush, and floss with ease. Plus, they’re nearly invisible, making them a great choice if you want a more subtle treatment option. With their comfortable design and flexibility, Invisalign lets you go about your daily life with almost no interruptions.

What Can Invisalign Help Treat?

Invisalign is a highly versatile treatment option that can address a range of orthodontic issues, including:

  • Crowded or spaced teeth: Whether you’re dealing with crowding or noticeable gaps, Invisalign can gently adjust the spacing of your teeth, helping create a uniform smile.
  • Bite irregularities: Invisalign can refine malocclusions such as overbites, underbites, crossbites, or open bites, improving both bite functionality and jaw comfort.
  • Crooked teeth: Crooked teeth not only affect the way your smile looks but can make everyday tasks like chewing or speaking difficult. Invisalign can help realign these teeth for both aesthetic and functional benefits.

During your consultation, we’ll review your specific concerns and determine if Invisalign is the right solution for you.

Close-up of a person's mouth as they take out their Invisalign retainer to eat.

What To Expect While Using Invisalign

Every patient’s experience with Invisalign is unique, but the overall process follows these key steps:

  1. Initial consultation: Your Invisalign journey starts with a consultation. During this time, we’ll take the opportunity to discuss your treatment goals and conduct a thorough assessment of your teeth. This helps us create a personalized approach tailored to your specific needs.
  2. Scanning & treatment planning: Advanced 3D imaging allows us to capture detailed scans of your teeth, eliminating the need for messy impressions. Using this technology, we’ll design a custom treatment plan, mapping out the precise movements your teeth will make throughout the process. This helps your aligners fit comfortably and deliver reliable progress.
  3. Getting your custom aligners: Once your aligners are ready, you’ll receive your first set of aligners and meet with a member of our team to ensure they fit comfortably. You have to switch to a new set of aligners approximately every 1–2 weeks, depending on your treatment plan.
  4. Ongoing monitoring: We prioritize regular communication and checkups during your Invisalign treatment. At these visits, we’ll evaluate your progress, address any questions, and provide the next sets of aligners. These check-ins are about keeping your treatment on track, and we’re with you every step of the way.
  5. Aligners in daily life: We recommend wearing your aligners 20–22 hours per day, only removing them for eating, brushing, and cleaning. This allows the aligners to work consistently, delivering the results you want in the shortest amount of time.

Once your treatment is complete, we’ll work with you to maintain your results. We may recommend a retainer to help keep your newly aligned smile in place. This simple step helps protect the long-term investment you’ve made in your oral health.

Why Do People Choose Invisalign?

What sets Invisalign apart isn’t just the advanced technology—it’s also the lifestyle benefits it offers. With Invisalign, you can eat your favorite foods without restriction and easily maintain good oral hygiene habits. Its nearly invisible design also gives you the freedom to live confidently, whether you’re attending social events, giving a presentation, or simply smiling.

Additionally, Invisalign’s structured, step-by-step approach makes the treatment feel seamless and personalized. From the first scan to your final retainer fitting, you should feel informed, supported, and empowered throughout the process.

We’re Here to Help Shape Your Smile

Aesthetics are just the beginning when it comes to straightening your teeth. It’s also about health, functionality, and confidence. At every stage of your Invisalign treatment, we’re committed to providing care that combines expertise with a personal touch. Dr. Joe is ready to support you through consultations, progress checkups, and answering questions along the way.

If you’ve been curious about how Invisalign can transform your smile, there’s no better time to start than today! Book your appointment and take the first step toward the smile you’ve always wanted.

Why
Choose Dr. Joe Long Island

In-House Lab
& Same-Day Dentistry

With in-house technologies like inLab and CEREC, we have control over the customization and quality of every crown, implant, and bridge. We can craft a smile that’s uniquely yours with the convenience of same-day service. Enjoy more time with your new smile.

Learn More

Facial Aesthetics
& Smile Makeovers

Dentists understand facial anatomy, and we can truly get to know your unique features. We can rejuvenate the smile you once had with a smile makeover. Through customized aesthetic services, we can create a look that inspires you to share your radiant smile.

Learn More

Giving Back:
Tomorrow’s Smile Today

Founded in 2015 by Dr. Joe, Tomorrow’s Smile Today (TST) is a nonprofit providing quality dental & medical care to those in need worldwide. TST also engages emerging leaders at dental colleges, including NYU alumni like Dr. Joe, to nurture the next generation.

Learn More

Smile & Glow:
Bright Smiles, Radiant Skin

At Dr. Joe’s, we want to help your whole face glow. We don’t just focus on your teeth—we care about your big-picture goals. You deserve a team that genuinely cares about you, inside and out. Let us help you define your look and make your smile shine brighter.

Our Location

Our Address

  • 823 W Jericho Turnpike, Suite 1B
  • Smithtown, NY 11787

Contact Information

Hours of Operation

Monday:
10:00 AM 7:00 PM
Tuesday:
10:00 AM 7:00 PM
Wednesday:
10:00 AM 7:00 PM
Thursday:
10:00 AM 7:00 PM
Friday:
By Appointment Only
Saturday:
By Appointment Only
Sunday:
Closed

Our
Testimonials

Our Blog

Do Cavities Cause Bad Breath?

Cavities

Bad breath, or halitosis, can be an embarrassing and frustrating problem. You might brush, floss, and pop mints, and yet the unpleasant odor still persists. If this sounds familiar, the culprit might not be your oral hygiene routine—it could be cavities. Cavities, or tooth decay, are a widespread dental issue we often see at Dr. […]

Read More… from Do Cavities Cause Bad Breath?

March 10, 2025
Dr. Joseph Pantaleo

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign

A beautiful and functional smile is one of the best investments we can make in ourselves. If you’ve been exploring ways to align your teeth, you’ve likely heard of Invisalign. Simply put, Invisalign uses clear, custom-fitted aligners to gradually adjust the position of your teeth, creating a straighter, healthier smile. This innovative system has transformed […]

Read More… from How Does Invisalign Work?

March 10, 2025
Dr. Joseph Pantaleo

Why Should You Avoid Dairy After Dental Implants?

Dental Services

After your dental implant surgery, you’re probably looking forward to getting back to your usual routine and enjoying your favorite foods. However, there are some temporary adjustments you’ll need to make, particularly when it comes to dairy. While dairy is a valuable source of nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, it’s best to hold off […]

Read More… from Why Should You Avoid Dairy After Dental Implants?

February 28, 2025
Dr. Joseph Pantaleo
A person chews gum for their bad breath, but this won't address the main problem.

Bad breath, or halitosis, can be an embarrassing and frustrating problem. You might brush, floss, and pop mints, and yet the unpleasant odor still persists. If this sounds familiar, the culprit might not be your oral hygiene routine—it could be cavities. Cavities, or tooth decay, are a widespread dental issue we often see at Dr. […]

Read More… from Do Cavities Cause Bad Breath?

A smiling patient holds up their Invisalign retainer.

A beautiful and functional smile is one of the best investments we can make in ourselves. If you’ve been exploring ways to align your teeth, you’ve likely heard of Invisalign. Simply put, Invisalign uses clear, custom-fitted aligners to gradually adjust the position of your teeth, creating a straighter, healthier smile. This innovative system has transformed […]

Read More… from How Does Invisalign Work?

Close-up of a person handing a glass of milk to another person in the background who is holding up a hand to signal they don't want it.

After your dental implant surgery, you’re probably looking forward to getting back to your usual routine and enjoying your favorite foods. However, there are some temporary adjustments you’ll need to make, particularly when it comes to dairy. While dairy is a valuable source of nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, it’s best to hold off […]

Read More… from Why Should You Avoid Dairy After Dental Implants?

Gallery

instagram facebook facebook2 pinterest twitter google-plus google linkedin2 yelp youtube phone location calendar share2 link star-full star star-half chevron-right chevron-left chevron-down chevron-up envelope fax