Thinking about Invisalign? You probably have questions, and you deserve straight answers. Dr. Koh and Dr. Kim believe an informed patient is a confident patient. That is why we put together this guide to the questions we hear most from families, teens and adults across North Seattle.
Invisalign is a clear alternative to traditional braces. Instead of metal brackets and wires, you wear a series of custom-made, removable plastic aligners. Each set moves your teeth a small amount, and you switch to the next set as your treatment plan directs.
Your plan begins with a digital scan of your teeth and a 3D treatment map showing where your teeth start and where they will finish. Dr. Koh or Dr. Kim reviews and customizes that plan, so it reflects your bite and your goals, not just a computer default.
Most children, teens and adults with crowding, gaps or bite concerns can be considered. Invisalign can address a wide range of issues, from minor to more complex. We will examine your teeth and bite, review your X-rays, take a digital scan and tell you plainly whether Invisalign, braces or another option is the best fit.
Yes, in the right cases. We offer Invisalign Teen for growing, active teenagers. It includes features designed for adolescents, including compliance indicators and extra aligners in case a set is lost. For younger patients, Invisalign First supports early treatment, and the Invisalign Palatal Expander System offers a gentler alternative to traditional metal expanders.
Neither is better for everyone. The right choice depends on your teeth, your bite and your lifestyle. Invisalign is a great fit if you want a removable, nearly invisible option and can commit to wearing your aligners as directed.
Often, yes. Many mild to moderate overbites and crowding cases respond well to aligners, and more complex cases can sometimes be treated too. Because every mouth is different, we give you a clear answer after your exam and scan rather than a one-size-fits-all promise.
Most patients finish in roughly 12 to 18 months, though some adult cases are shorter and complex cases can take longer. Your timeline depends on how much movement your teeth need and how consistently you wear your aligners. Dr. Koh or Dr. Kim will give you a personalized estimate at your consultation.
Aim for 20 to 22 hours a day. That means wearing them while you sleep and taking them out only to eat, drink anything other than plain water, and brush and floss. The more consistently you wear them, the more predictable your results.
Most patients switch to a new set every one to two weeks, as prescribed in your plan. Your in-office visit schedule is set by your doctor. With KohView, some check-ins happen from home, so you spend less time in the chair.
KohView is our remote monitoring program, powered by Invisalign Virtual Care. It lets us follow your progress between visits, so treatment stays on track while fitting into your schedule.
Most people feel mild pressure or tenderness for the first few days of each new set. That means the aligners are working. It usually fades quickly. Because each aligner is custom-made and there are no metal brackets or wires, many patients find Invisalign more comfortable than braces and less likely to cause mouth sores.
Yes. Take your aligners out to eat, so there are no food restrictions like popcorn or caramel. Before putting them back in, brush your teeth, or at least rinse well. Drink only plain water while wearing aligners.
Call us at (206) 365-3666 right away. Depending on where you are in your treatment, we may have you move to your next set or wear a previous one. Invisalign Teen includes extra aligners for this very reason. If an attachment comes off or an aligner cracks, we also provide emergency care.
Yes. Many patients take aligners out for contact sports and wear a mouthguard instead, and put them back in right after. Some patients notice a slight lisp for a few days, which typically goes away as your mouth adjusts.
Yes. Teeth have a natural tendency to shift throughout life, so retainers are the key to protecting your results. We fit you with custom retainers when treatment ends. Most patients wear them full-time for a few months, then at night going forward. We will give you a plan tailored to you.
Your cost depends on the complexity of your case, how long you will be in treatment and the plan you choose. We believe in complete transparency: after your first consultation, you will get a full cost breakdown with no surprises.
We offer flexible payment plans so quality care stays within reach, including in-office plans that spread your investment over treatment. Our Flexible Treatment Tiers give you three ways to match your goals and budget.
Your first consultation includes a complete exam, digital scans and a personalized treatment discussion. No pressure. No commitment. Just honest answers and a clear path forward.
At Koh Orthodontics, every smile tells a story. Let’s help you write yours. Contact us and schedule your consultation today!