Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment. Indeed, it is effective, convenient, and discreet. If you decide to get it, you can look forward to a positive experience! Still, it is good to have well-rounded knowledge of this procedure before you commit to it. How does Invisalign work, and what are some key details about it that you should keep in mind? This blog post shares five important points.
You Must Commit to Wearing Your Aligners
One of the most appealing aspects of Invisalign is the use of removable aligner trays. This feature allows you to maintain excellent oral hygiene and enjoy a wide variety of foods without the limitations posed by traditional braces.
However, the convenience of removable aligners also presents a challenge: you must be diligent about wearing them. For the treatment to be effective, you should keep the aligners in your mouth for 20 – 22 hours each day. If you do not wear them as directed, your progress may slow down, which could prolong your overall treatment time. To help you stay on track, you could use a dedicated app such as TrayMinder, or set reminders on your phone to ensure you always place your aligners back in your mouth after meals.
You May Need to Modify Your Eating Habits
Although Invisalign does not impose strict dietary restrictions, you may find that you need to adjust your eating and drinking routines. The only substance you should consume while wearing your aligners is plain water. All other beverages and foods should be enjoyed only when the aligners are removed. Because you need to maximize your aligner wear time, frequent snacking might not be practical.
Try to plan your main meals so they have enough nutrients to keep you full for longer periods. This approach will help you stay compliant with the recommended daily wear time while maintaining a healthy diet.
Expect Some Initial Discomfort
While Invisalign aligners are crafted from smooth plastic so they are easy on the oral tissues, some level of discomfort is still normal, particularly when you first begin wearing a new set of aligners. Your teeth are gradually moving, which can cause mild soreness or pressure.
Fortunately, this issue typically subsides after a few days. Over-the-counter pain relief medications can help manage any temporary discomfort.
Your Speech May Temporarily Change
The way your tongue interacts with your teeth is crucial for producing clear speech. Because Invisalign creates a thin barrier around your teeth, you might notice a slight lisp or a need to speak more slowly and deliberately at first. This is a common experience, and most patients find that their speech returns to normal as they adapt to wearing the aligners.
Invisalign Can Deliver Results Efficiently
The average Invisalign treatment lasts about 12 months, though the exact duration varies from patient to patient. Your dentist can provide a more personalized estimate based on your unique alignment needs. By closely following your dentist’s instructions and wearing your aligners as recommended, you can expect your teeth to move efficiently toward the desired results.
Do you think you are ready to get started with Invisalign? Talk to your dentist if you would like additional information about this treatment.
Meet the Practice
At New Haven Dental Group, our team of dentists and support staff love to work with patients and help them achieve their goals. Invisalign is among the many services we offer in our comfortable, modern office. To learn more about it or to request a FREE consultation, contact our Hamden location at 203-587-7327.