Any orthodontic treatment is a big deal, and Invisalign is no different. Even though this sophisticated method for straightening teeth uses clear aligners that are removable and difficult to see – both major perks – there are facts every wearer needs to know and understand before embarking on the Invisalign journey.
1. Be ready to make a commitment.
All orthodontic treatment is a commitment, but unlike traditional metal braces that are with you 24/7 whether you like it or not, Invisalign offers some freedom. The trays can be removed, so you’re on the honor system, promising to wear them 20 to 22 hours a day so you can get the greatest benefits from the method. The more you commit, the more effective your treatment will be.
This method is especially attractive to adolescents, who would give just about anything to avoid having brace face. Many young patients are successful wearers of Invisalign Teen, but no matter what age you are, the rules and commitment are exactly the same.
2. It will be uncomfortable sometimes.
In the grand scheme of orthodontics, Invisalign is a gift. You can align your smile without anyone knowing about it, remove your braces whenever you feel like it, and avoid pesky, poky wires and brackets.
However, the aligners are moving your teeth like any orthodontic treatment, which means there will be some discomfort. This is most likely to happen when trays are switched out for new ones and the next few teeth begin to shift. The pressure is a good thing – it means everything is working as it should, you will feel confident that the treatment is working properly, and you’ll adjust to the feeling more quickly as time passes.
3. Do your best to avoid temptations.
Your Lawrenceville Invisalign provider will tell you to only drink water while the aligners are in your mouth. If you eat or drink anything else – even if it’s just a tiny snack or a few sips of your favorite beverage – you run the risk of damaging or discoloring the trays. This is problematic for a variety of reasons.
You don’t want to damage trays and need to get replacements – every set of Invisalign aligners is designed to do a certain piece of the alignment work. Damaging the trays will set your treatment off-course. And food and drink will stain the trays, which destroys the whole purpose of a nearly invisible treatment (plus the trays could get smelly too).
4. Retainers are in your future.
Your orthodontic treatment is not over when you finish wearing that last set of Invisalign aligners. Every type of braces requires retainers at the end to keep the newly shifted teeth in their proper positions. Think of retainers like an insurance policy for all the effort you put in over the last many months.
The good news is that your dentist will have recommendations about the best type of retainer for your lifestyle – and the retainers usually only need to be worn at night.
Is Invisalign Right for You?
Invisalign is an option for so many orthodontic patients and can fix the same malocclusions as conventional metal braces. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Roberts or Dr. de Marsche, Invisalign providers at Lawrenceville Orthodontics, to find out if you’re a good candidate for this innovative treatment.