When it comes to orthodontic care, many people are immediately drawn to Invisalign. After all, they offer a number of benefits over traditional metal braces – they’re practically invisible, removable for eating and cleaning, and comfortable. Read on to learn more about this orthodontic service.

How does Invisalign work?

Using a 3D modeling software program, a custom series of aligners is developed for patients. Patients wear these aligners for about two weeks before moving onto the next set. The entire treatment takes anywhere on average between 9 months to 2 years depending on one’s individual case. Some patients document as little as six months for treatment time.

Invisalign Expectations

Common questions before signing up for Invisalign treatment are the following:

- How does it work?

- How much does it cost?

- Will my teeth truly look perfect after the treatment?

- What are the downfalls of getting Invisalign?

- Does it hurt?

With these questions can come some expectations and preconceived notions about the treatment’s procedure and effectiveness. 

Common customer expectations include: faster treatment time, affordability, and a better smile. The truth is that Invisalign braces are a great option for a lot of patients.

Reality: What Can Happen When Wearing Invisalign?

Tooth and Gum Sensitivity

-One of the most common complaints about Invisalign is that they can cause tooth and gum sensitivity. This occurs when the aligners rub against teeth and gums, irritating them over time. This issue is typically resolved after a few weeks of wearing the clear aligners.

Minor Speech Impediments 

- Invisalign braces are also known to potentially cause minor speech impediments. This is because the aligners can change the way teeth fit together, causing patients to mumble or slur their words. Once patients get used to the aligners, this will go away.

Difficult to Keep Clean

- Invisalign can be difficult to keep clean. Since the aligners are removable, they can be difficult to clean thoroughly. Patients must clean them with water and toothpaste or mouthwash before re-inserting them into their mouths.

Different Pricing from Traditional Braces

- Invisalign can range in price depending on your treatment plan. To get the most accurate quote for your Invisalign journey, please contact our office today.

How to Ensure You Get a Good Invisalign Experience

First Consultation

Most Invisalign providers offer free consultations. With this free consultation does not mean you need to commit to that provider. You can visit several orthodontists until you find the right one that makes you feel comfortable. 

During the initial consultation, the provider will look at your teeth, mouth shape and your bite (overbite, underbite, etc). They will then let you know if you’re a good candidate for Invisalign. 

Remember that you do not have to go with the first provider that you have your initial consultation with. Be sure to pick the one that makes you feel confident in the process.

State-Of-The-Art Technology

In order to have Invisalign aligners that are most accurate to how you want your perfect smile to be, your provider will need a highly accurate picture of your teeth. In order to get this, either 3D digital imaging equipment or molds are used.

A digital scanner is super quick and very accurate. Choosing a provider that uses a scanner instead of molds will prove to be beneficial in the moment. 

Keep Your Aligners On For 20-22 Hours A Day

To get your teeth to move in the right direction, you must be diligent about the time you keep them on for. The trays won’t work if you don’t keep them secured in your mouth. After about one or two weeks, you will switch to the next tray which will move your teeth again. 

Conclusion

All in all, Invisalign can help you to fix your overbite, underbite, misaligned teeth, and etcetera. There are many benefits that come with Invisalign including comfortability, invisibility and the freedom to take them on and off. Although there are these benefits, there are also some downsides as well.

Many people expect Invisalign to be more affordable than braces, take less time to complete treatment and produce them with their dream smile. However, without the right provider and without the right diligence that comes with wearing Invisalign, this may not be possible.

Remember to choose the right provider, preferably with state-of-the-art technology and to keep your aligners on for 20-22 hours a day. This will ensure that you get the best experience possible out of your treatment and that you achieve that dream smile of yours.