10 Things To Know Before Getting Invisalign®
Are you interested in an effective, unobtrusive method of realigning and correcting misaligned teeth?
Many good orthodontic treatments do just that, and one of the most popular choices is Invisalign® clear aligners.
Our team at Epsom Dental Care offers Invisalign® near you, in our convenient and clean offices.
If you are considering Invisalign®, we’d like to introduce you to 10 things you need to know before you get it.
#1. Aligners are a full-time job
Aligners are a full-time job, not a part-time commitment. For Invisalign® to work as designed, you need to wear clear aligners for at least 20-22 hours daily.
Your dentist will tell you how long. The aligners should only be removed for eating, brushing, flossing, sports, or playing some instruments.
It is too easy to remove these aligners, particularly if they feel awkward on your teeth, and then forget to replace them.
If the aligners don’t stay in your mouth as long as they should, the treatment will not work.
If you think you take your aligners out more often than you should, other orthodontic treatments are a better choice.
#2. Invisalign® is not for everyone.
Invisalign® is great, particularly because it is nearly undetectable, but cannot treat all orthodontic problems. Minor over/underbites, gaps, and crooked teeth are good candidates for Invisalign®.
However, traditional metal braces may be preferable for patients with more complicated issues, such as a too-big bite.
Your consultation with your Belmont WA dentist will reveal whether Invisalign® is a good choice for orthodontic conditions.
#3. You may end up brushing a lot more than you are used to.
Because aligners sit on top of teeth, you need to brush before replacing them.
If you don’t, you’re just trapping food particles on your teeth, allowing bacteria to grow, attacking your teeth and fouling your breath.
Invisalign® users should always travel with a toothbrush and keep one at places you often eat, such as school or the office.
#4. Extra snacks may not be worth the trouble.
This goes back to the brushing issue. “Grazing” or eating during the day may become too much of a hassle.
Even the smallest afternoon snack requires you to remove your aligners, eat, and then brush and floss before replacing them.
On the positive side, some users report losing weight while using Invisalign®, which reduces their snacking habit.
#5. Invisalign® is quick and efficient
While many believe the main difference between traditional braces and Invisalign® is its nearly invisible appearance, Invisalign® can also offer faster treatment.
Most patients begin to see results in 2-3 months!
#6. You may experience some discomfort
Invisalign® looks modern, sleek, and smooth, particularly when compared against metal braces, but they are still an orthodontic treatment.
This means you may feel some discomfort during your treatment. Many patients do not feel discomfort, but some do. This varies by patient, teeth, and pain threshold.
#7. You need to clean the aligners correctly
When cleaning aligners, it is unwise to use toothpaste, as its abrasive ingredients can cause a build-up that makes them icky and yellow. Instead, use a recommended aligner cleaner.
#8. You aren’t too old
Just as with braces, Invisalign® aligners are great for teenagers and seniors. Don’t let your age keep you from that straight smile you have always wanted.
#9. You will need a retainer
Unlike conventional braces, finishing Invisalign® treatment does not mean treatment is over. In most cases, Invisalign® patients will wear a retainer to keep their teeth aligned for the long run.
#10. We’ve got your back (well, your teeth!)
Don’t be troubled by the potential downsides of aligners.
Instead, concentrate on the fact that you get out of them what you put into them and that we are here to help you. Our many satisfied patients are evidence that the work is worth the result!
Invisalign® in Belmont WA
If you think Invisalign® may be the proper treatment for you, give us a call!
Your friendly Belmont WA dentist team will help you decide on the best choice for your smile.
If you have questions about Invisalign treatment, please contact us at (08) 9478 2349.
We are located at 5/132 Epsom Ave in Belmont WA.