Invisalign has become a common orthodontic treatment and an alternative for people who want to straighten their teeth without traditional braces. Although Invisalign is known as a more comfortable alternative, you should know some things about Invisalign treatment before committing to it.
Invisalign is a treatment option for correcting the bite without surgery. Unlike traditional braces, which require brackets and metal wires to straighten the teeth, Invisalign involves wearing a series of custom-made, clear aligners.
If you want to use Invisalign aligners to correct your orthodontic issues, here are some things you need to know.
You might need more attachments than expected
Invisalign treatment has come a long way since its introduction into the market. Invisalign can now correct more orthodontic issues than in the past, using attachments. Attachments are enamel-coloured bridges that the dentist places on the teeth to help the teeth move better. When you’re not wearing the aligners, the aligners are virtually invisible, but wearing your aligners makes them visible. This means that if you get several attachments to ensure more effective teeth movement, your aligners will end up looking like clear braces.
The recommended wear time is 22 hours daily
Many people think that because the aligners are removable, you can leave them out for several hours. However, you need the aligners in your mouth for at least 22 hours every day for them to be effective. Although the aligners are removable, you should only take them out when you want to eat or clean your teeth.
Invisalign treatment may make you lose weight
Since the recommended wear time for Invisalign is 22 hours, it leaves you with only two hours to eat your three meals a day. This may seem like enough time to eat, but between struggling to remove the aligners and cleaning both the aligners and your teeth before wearing the aligners, you’d have little time to eat.
For most people, the struggle to take out the aligners is never worth it for snacking or eating in between your mealtimes. This makes many people lose weight during their treatment.
Lipsticks may be an issue
Wearing lipstick or coloured lip gloss may stain your aligners or stick to your attachments, making your mouth look messy. However, you may opt for clear lip gloss or balm.
No manicures
Removing Invisalign aligners with manicured nails are almost impossible. You’d likely end up with chipped nails when trying to take out the aligners.
Kissing may feel awkward
Since you’d have the aligners for most of the day, it may serve as an obstruction while kissing, except you have a partner who is comfortable with you having the aligners in your mouth.
You’ll brush your teeth several times a day
Food particles and plaques can easily get stuck in your teeth, leading to cavities and bad breath during your treatment. This makes brushing your teeth after each meal before wearing the aligners important, meaning you need to brush about six times a day.
The attachments get stained easily
Failing to brush your teeth after eating or taking any drink besides water can stain your attachments, making them more visible. Consider limiting the intake of coffee and other stain-causing beverages or brushing after you take them.
You can only take water with the aligners in your mouth
While the aligners are in your mouth, you can only drink cold water. Sugary or alcoholic drinks increases plaque build-up, while hot beverages can warp and stain the aligners.
Teeth whitening is not an option
Whitening your teeth during Invisalign treatment is not advisable, especially if you have attachments on. Brushing your teeth and avoiding drinks that stain the teeth can keep your enamel white.
A refinement period is necessary
After wearing the series of aligners provided by your dentist, you may need refinement aligners to shift stubborn teeth into place. After completing the initial set of aligners, Invisalign will create refinement aligners for finishing touches.
If you’re ready to start your treatment with Invisalign braces in London, feel free to contact Adult Braces London.
