Invisalign is the virtually invisible orthodontic solution. However, just because this cosmetic dentistry treatment is difficult to notice on someone’s teeth doesn’t mean it shouldn’t get plenty of attention – from the wearer. Invisalign requires dedication, flexibility, and a willingness to slightly alter your habits to make sure your orthodontic treatment is working properly. It’s important to know exactly what you’re getting into before investing in Invisalign.
1. Invisalign is virtually painless.
Of course, your invisible aligners are doing the difficult and important job of shifting your teeth to new locations so that your smile is completely aligned. You may experience a bit of tightness or discomfort upon using a new sets of aligners. But, in general, Invisalign is virtually painless. There is no getting your braces tightened or dealing with sharp wires poking into your lips or cheek. The aligners are made of super-thin, super-smooth, user-friendly materials.
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2. You will brush your teeth more often.
Because the only times of day that Invisalign should be removed is mealtime, you will want to make sure you brush away the bacteria and food particles from your meal before putting Invisalign back in your mouth. After all, the aligners are intended to fit snugly against your enamel so that they do their job properly. The last thing you want is to catch food in between your teeth and aligner and allow cavities to develop in that environment. Keep some travel toothbrushes handy in your bag, car, or desk, and use them.
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3. You will have to clean your aligners.
Traditional braces-wearers have to be meticulous about digging food out of their brackets and wires every day. Invisalign wearers can brush and floss as normal – plus a few extra brushings whenever possible (see above) – but the clear aligners need to be cared for as well. Your dentist will recommend the proper cleaning method for Invisalign so that every set of aligners remains clear, stain-free, cloud-free, and odor-free for happy straightening. The most important fact to remember is that toothpaste on your aligners is a no-no – it is too abrasive and could damage the trays.
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4. Invisalign doesn’t work for everyone.
Invisalign is capable of doing the exact same job as traditional metal braces – straightening crooked teeth, correcting overbites or underbites, eliminating gaps, etc. – though in severe cases it may be necessary to stay devoted to Invisalign for a lengthy period of time beyond the average one year of treatment. In some situations, metal braces or a cosmetic dentistry solution like porcelain veneers may get you the smile you want faster and more effectively than Invisalign.
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5. You will have to wear retainers.
The initial estimation for the length of your Invisalign treatment may come in at under a year, the typical length of time for alignment. If you can stick with your treatment and your teeth move as planned, this number could stay the same for the duration of your orthodontia, though in some cases patients will need extra trays to complete the work that’s been done. What is a certainty for every Invisalign-wearer after treatment is complete are retainers. If you want to keep your teeth in alignment, your dentist will explain how often and how long you must wear retainers. Breathe easy – your retainers won’t give away your treatment. You may only have to wear the retainers at night, or you can arrange to have special retainers made that sit behind your teeth rather than noticeably on top of them.
Only your dentist knows for certain if you are a good candidate for Invisalign. Make an appointment with Manhattan cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael J. Wei to learn more about the nearly invisible smile makeover solution that won’t interrupt your life, career, or relationships.
