One of the most popular ways to straighten teeth these days is with Invisalign clear aligners, a high-tech orthodontic treatment that delivers incredible results without the need for a permanent appliance like traditional braces. At Discover Orthodontics, we have transformed the smiles of countless patients in Burlington, ON using Invisalign, and here are 9 things you should know before embarking on your Invisalign journey.
1) Discomfort is Possible but Fleeting
No matter what method you choose, straightening your teeth always involves some discomfort. With Invisalign, the discomfort is not the aching pain usually associated with traditional braces, but more of a tightness experienced when you put in your first tray or a new tray. It goes away as teeth adjust.
2) You Might Need Attachments
In addition to the clear plastic trays, some Invisalign patients require tooth-colored ceramic “attachments” on their teeth that apply pressure at certain targeted points to help their treatment progress properly. The aligners fit snugly over these attachments.
3) Dry Mouth Happens
Sometimes Invisalign causes mild irritation in the mouth, especially in the first few days of wearing the aligners. This can cause the mouth to produce less saliva, resulting in a dry mouth. Stay extra hydrated to counteract this effect.
4) It’s a Commitment
When you first get your aligners it might suddenly feel like another thing you have to worry about, especially since you now have to wear them for 6 months to a year. But remember that it will get much easier as you adapt to wearing them, and just think how proud of your new smile you’ll be.
5) You’ll Have a Lisp for a Little Bit
Expect to have a lisp for the first month of treatment, while you adjust to speaking while wearing your aligners. It might feel a little goofy, but it’s a small price to pay for a lifetime of stunning smiles. If you have to give an important speech, you can briefly remove your aligners.
6) Discipline is Harder than You Think
Invisalign requires more habit-forming than fixed braces. It is easy to become a little lax about wearing your aligners as time goes on, but it is important to control this impulse. If you don’t wear the aligners for 22 hours a day, your treatment will take even longer!
7) Cut Back on Coffee
Because you need to keep your aligners in long enough for them to work, habits like sipping coffee all day, or constantly chewing gum, will need to take a break. Maybe this is a good opportunity to break a caffeine dependency, or quit smoking, to further enhance your transformation.
8) “Chewies” are a Lifesaver
Sometimes it’s a little tough to put in your aligners. When you’ve just switched to a new set or your teeth are taking some time to adjust, air can get trapped in the tray and interfere with the fit. Gnawing on Ortho Chews or “chewies” pushes the aligner snugly into place and reduces discomfort.
9) Results Happen Fast
The best surprise about Invisalign treatment is how fast you see results. Every time you switch to a new set of trays, you get to watch your teeth adjust step-by-step towards your goal and smile in real-time. Because the aligners are see-through, you can put these results on display even during treatment.
Book a Consultation Today at Discover Orthodontics
If you’re interested in what Invisalign can do for your smile, request an appointment at Discover Orthodontics today. Our smart digital imaging technology can create a 3d model of your teeth and show you what your smile will look like at the end of treatment! Give yourself the gift of straighter teeth and enjoy the confidence boost and improved dental health that comes with it. Contact us if you have any questions about Invisalign or braces.