Since it was introduced in the late 1990s, Invisalign has risen to become a popular alternative to traditional metal braces. Invisalign can treat many orthodontic cases with removable and nearly invisible clear plastic aligners that require no dietary restrictions. While many patients say that wearing Invisalign clear aligners is easier than dealing with traditional braces, it still requires significant effort on the part of the patient to be successful. Here are a few common questions about living with Invisalign as well as their answers.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign uses a series of virtually invisible clear aligners to gradually push teeth into better alignments. Each set of aligners is customized to fit the patient’s teeth while shifting them slightly to their new position. The patient must wear their clear aligners for at least twenty hours every day for their teeth to shift properly. The patient switches to the next set of aligners in the series after two weeks, and each set brings the smile closer to its new alignment. The length of Invisalign treatments ranges from six to eighteen months.
Is Wearing Invisalign Clear Aligners Uncomfortable?
Many patients report some discomfort when they start wearing their aligners or when they switch to a new set. This is because the teeth may need time to adjust to the pressure a new aligner applies to them. This discomfort can be treated with an ice pack, a cold compress, or over-the-counter pain management medication.
What Is Dental Hygiene Like with Invisalign?
Keeping the teeth and the aligners clean is a key part of the Invisalign process. The patient must remove their aligners when eating or drinking anything but water. They must also brush and floss their teeth and rinse the aligners before putting them back in. It’s also important to wait thirty minutes after eating before brushing. Many patients pack oral hygiene kits to take with them when they leave the house in case they need to clean their teeth while they are away from home.
What Can I Do If My Invisalign Aligner Is Damaged?
If your Invisalign clear aligner is damaged, don’t panic. Contact your dentist for instructions. They may recommend that you simply advance to the next set of aligners in the sequence or that you switch back to the previous set while a new one is being manufactured.
Invisalign is a great way for many people to achieve a straighter and healthier smile. Consulting with your orthodontist can determine if Invisalign can be a suitable treatment for you.
About the Author
Dr. William “Vaughn” Holland earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Florida College of Dentistry and has his Specialty Certificate in Orthodontics and his Specialty Certificate in Prosthodontics from the same school. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Florida Dental Association, and the American Association of Orthodontists. His office in Jacksonville, FL offers traditional braces, ceramic braces, and Invisalign treatments. To schedule an Invisalign consultation, contact his office online or dial (904) 388-4600.