Invisalign, a transparent material for aligning teeth, is a good alternative to traditional metal braces. Many prefer Invisalign because it blends in with the teeth, allowing wearers to maintain their beautiful smiles. Below are crucial things you should know about Invisalign treatment.
Treatment is Relatively Fast
According to the Dental Health Society, Invisalign treatment is usually faster than traditional braces treatment. Some people achieve desired treatment results with Invisalign just after seven months. Invisalign work fast because it moves all your teeth simultaneously. Traditional braces only apply pressure to specific misaligned teeth at a time.
However, the actual treatment time depends on several factors. For example, your discipline of wearing the Invisalign and degree of misalignment matter.
The Initial Discomfort and Inconvenience Fade With Time
Many people do not like the way aligners feel in their mouths; the treatment triggers some discomfort. The treatment will even change your speech; you might start speaking with a lisp. The good news is that these inconveniences disappear after some time. Your oral tissues will get used to the materials, and your speaking will improve with practice.
You Will Still Need Retainers
While Invisalign works like other orthodontic treatments, your teeth might not maintain their positions after alignment. Muscle memory and other factors might cause the teeth to return to their former positions. Thus, your dentist may advise you to wear retainers after alignment. This advice is not unique to Invisalign treatment; it applies to other braces.
You Don't Eat With Them
You can eat with your metal braces; the braces are permanently in your mouth. However, you don't eat with Invisalign because the food might damage them. Invisalign can also trap food particles and increase your risk of bacteria attack. Thus, you should always remove your Invisalign before eating—water is the only thing you can take with the aligners in your mouth.
You Should Be Extra Keen With Oral Hygiene
Lastly, you should take extra care with brushing and flossing during your Invisalign treatment. While oral hygiene is necessary for everyone, it's even more crucial for Invisalign wearers to:
Ideally, you should brush every time you take out the aligners to eat. Therefore, you should always have a spare toothbrush with you. In addition, you should clean the aligners before putting them back in your mouth. Cleaning with a soft-bristled toothbrush, clear liquid soap, and clean water will do.
Visit a dentist in your area to receive fittings for Invisalign.