Invisalign has revolutionized orthodontic treatment, offering a discreet and convenient way to achieve a straightened smile! As a popular alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign aligners have gained recognition for their effectiveness and convenience.
If you’re considering Invisalign, it’s essential to be well-informed about this treatment option. In this blog post, we’ll explore 7 key things to know in order to make an informed decision about Invisalign.
What is Invisalign?
With the use of Invisalign, teeth can be straightened without the usage of metal braces. A series of clear braces created custom to your mouth, called Invisalign, cover your teeth and gradually move them into the correct position. They are less apparent than traditional metal braces since they are clear and removable.
The majority of people wish to improve their teeth but believe that the only choice is to use traditional metal braces. There are no metal brackets or wires to distract from your smile when receiving treatment with Invisalign clear aligners.
What is Invisalign Made From?
One of the primary advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are virtually invisible. This is especially beneficial for individuals who desire a more discreet orthodontic treatment option, allowing them to straighten their teeth without drawing unnecessary attention.
Invisalign clear aligners are made from BPA-free plastic, and they are far more comfortable than traditional metal braces. Your teeth can be straightened using these specialized transparent aligners, giving you the smile you’ve always desired. You’ll have a consultation before even deciding if Invisalign clear aligners are best for you.
What Does Invisalign Fix?
Invisalign typically fixes:
- Mildly crooked teeth/Misalignment
- Central tooth overlaps
- Crowding
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Crossbites
- Open bites
- Gap teeth
What is Treatment Like?
Invisalign is meant for people of all ages, conditions, and timelines. Due to many differences in each of our smiles, your treatment or experience may be different from others, but here are some universal things to note about treatment.
Customized Treatment Plan
Invisalign treatment begins with a detailed assessment of your teeth and bite. Using advanced technology, such as digital scans and 3D images, your dentist will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This ensures that your aligners will gradually shift your teeth into the desired position.
Removable Aligners
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are removable. This allows you to enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions and makes oral hygiene routines more convenient. Remember, for optimal results, it’s crucial to wear your aligners for at least 20-22 hours per day.
Aligner Switching
Throughout your treatment, you will receive a series of aligners that are replaced every one to two weeks. Each set of aligners is slightly different to gradually get your teeth to the correct position without experiencing any negative side effects. It’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions and switch to the next set of aligners at the designated time for optimal progress.
Treatment Duration
The duration of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the complexity of your case. Typically, treatment can range from a few months to over a year or more. Your dentist will provide you with a personalized estimate of your treatment timeline during your initial consultation.
Advantages of Invisalign Compared to Traditional Braces
It’s important to understand the benefits of Invisalign over traditional braces while weighing your options for orthodontic treatment:
- These braces are invisible. People won’t notice you’re wearing them.
- Your teeth will move more precisely than they would with metal braces.
- Maintaining good oral health is simpler. You can simply remove your aligners while eating, brushing your teeth, and flossing.
- Compared to metal braces, these aligners are far more comfortable. Your teeth or gums are not (usually) irritated by them.
- Time is saved using Invisalign. You will visit the dentist less frequently with Invisalign than with braces, which need more frequent appointments to change the archwire and adjust. Treatment times are frequently shortened as well.
What Is It Like Wearing These Clear Braces?
Discomfort & Adjustments
Some patients may experience minor discomfort or pressure when transitioning to a new set of aligners. This is normal and typically subsides within a few days. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners do not require regular adjustments at the dental office, reducing the number of visits needed.
For the most part, these aligners are painless and the results far outweigh any cons that may be experienced.
Oral Hygiene & Aligner Care
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial during Invisalign treatment. Remember to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before reinserting your aligners to prevent the buildup of plaque and bacteria.
Additionally, clean your aligners regularly using the prescribed cleaning techniques provided by your dentist.
May Experience Different Speech Pronunciation
Some patients may experience speech changes or different-sounding pronunciation when getting used to the aligners. This is typically something people don’t notice and can be temporary as your mouth gets used to the new shifting teeth between aligners.
Capacity to Whiten Teeth
Straightening and whitening your teeth often go hand-in-hand as the biggest desirable changes to a patient’s smile. Luckily, with Invisalign, you’re already wearing trays throughout the day that could multitask as a whitening tray.
Make sure to consult with your dentist before buying any whitening treatments to add on top of your straightening treatment. Unlike braces, you can buy different whitening treatments or toothpaste to use during the periods of time you don’t have your aligners in! Just remember to put your aligners back in as soon as you are done.
What Happens After Treatment?
Upon completing your Invisalign treatment, your dentist will recommend wearing retainers to help maintain the newly achieved alignment of your teeth. Retainers are typically worn at night or as instructed by your dentist to prevent any potential shifting.
Understanding the key aspects of Invisalign treatment, from the virtually invisible aligners to the importance of following oral hygiene practices, empowers patients to make informed decisions about their orthodontic care. Consult with your dentist to determine if Invisalign is the right option for you and to receive personalized guidance throughout your treatment journey.
Here at Lake Bluff Family Dentistry, your Invisalign journey will be convenient, predictable, and worthwhile thanks to the advanced training and technology used by our Invisalign provider, Dr. Fauzia Khan.
Request a consultation today to see if Invisalign is right for you!