What You Need to Know About Invisalign®

Nothing affects your confidence and dampers your smile than misaligned or crooked teeth. Furthermore, they also affect your dental structure and could provide a breeding environment for bacteria to grow.

Although traditional braces have been the primary dental treatment, most people find them an inconvenience. To those people, we say, there is something better– Invisalign® braces. These orthodontic appliances help realign the teeth without the discomfort of the metal braces.

Invisible braces are made of clear plastic and are custom-made to suit your teeth.

We know you want to get your Invisalign® set as soon as possible, but here are a few things you need to know.

1. Invisalign works the same as traditional braces

Invisible braces and traditional ones are similar only that the Invisalign® is less conspicuous. Moreover, the invisible aligners move your teeth one step a time.

You will need to wear each set of braces for 22 hours for two weeks before changing. This is because your teeth need 14 days to readjust to the new shape.

2. Not ideal for all people

Unlike the metal braces that can be worn by almost all people, clear aligners are different. They are used to correct mild to moderate dental problems. Furthermore, only teens and adults can use them.

If you have severe malocclusion or diastema, you need to use the traditional braces as Invisalign® may not be of great help. Visit our dentist in Anchorage, AK to find out if you are a candidate for the invisible braces.

3. The treatment varies

Invisible braces treatment varies from one person to the next. However, on average, the treatment can take between 10 to 24 months to fully realign the teeth. People who used braces before may take a shorter time.

4. They should be removed while eating

Yes, you need to remove the braces when eating to avoid getting the food particles stuck in the braces. Plus, you should also remove them when brushing or flossing. Make sure you wear the braces for 22 hours, anything shorter than that will affect your treatment process.

5. They can get stained

Yes, you heard that right, your invisible aligners can get stained just like your natural teeth. Excessive consumption of tea and coffee can cause them to stain, which will affect their appearance and make them visible—the very thing you are trying to prevent. So, avoid too much coffee and tea intake until the treatment is done.

6. You will experience discomfort

You will need to change the trays every two weeks, and every time you switch your teeth will get uncomfortable as they adjust. Furthermore, the currently invisible aligners need enamel ridges for extra support. Although these ridges can hasten the healing process, they can cause a little tension.

7. They need to be cared for

Invisalign® should be cleaned every time you remove them. Rinse them with cold water and not hot. Hot water can damage the plastic material used and reduce its durability. Also, avoid using a toothpaste which is very abrasive and could scratch the braces. Don’t forget to brush them to remove the dried saliva from sticking and cause bacterial growth.

8. You may need a retainer

When the braces came off, you will need a retainer to complete the healing process.

Pros and Cons of Invisalign®

Pros

• Since the clear braces are custom-fit, they rarely need readjustment and can comfortably fit in your mouth.
• Invisalign® does not have the uncomfortable metal wires that can cause irritation or bruising
• Unlike the metal braces, the invisible aligners are unnoticeable to the naked eye
• Invisible braces are removable which make it easy to clean them and prevent bacteria buildup
• Clear braces require minimal maintenance; with a simple rinsing you will get rid of food particles

Cons

• The clear braces are uncomfortable in the beginning. Furthermore, because of the enamel ridges, the braces can cause discomfort
• They are expensive compared to metal braces

Get Invisalign Treatment in Anchorage, AK

Are you ready to start your Invisalign® treatment? Contact our dentist for a dental assessment. We are always welcoming new dental patients and would be happy to create a treatment plan for you.