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Why Do I Need Invisalign?
Invisalign is an orthodontic solution for individuals with teeth crowding or other dental alignment issues who want a different approach to the standard brackets and wires.
How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?
This is one of our most common Invisalign FAQs. Each treatment time varies from 12 to 18 months. Still, the length of your treatment will depend on the complexity of the alignment problems being corrected and the patient’s diligence in wearing their aligners as directed. Some patients can complete their treatment in as little as six months. As long as you wear your aligners, you’ll start seeing results in a matter of weeks. So, make sure you’re wearing yours!
Does Invisalign Hurt?
No, it does not hurt. Although the first few days of each stage of your Invisalign treatment, you may feel minor discomfort and soreness as your teeth get used to the extra pressure. This sensitivity is perfectly normal and a really good sign that the aligners are doing their job.
Will Invisalign Affect My Speech?
In the beginning, most patients experience a very slight lisp that disappears within a couple of days. The best thing to do is to wear the aligners while talking to adjust your speech more quickly.
How Do I Keep The Aligners Clean?
It is essential to clean your Invisalign trays each time you brush your teeth. It only takes a couple of minutes each time by utilizing the following approaches:
- Immersing aligners in denture or retainer cleaning solution
- Gently brushing aligners with lukewarm water
- Soaking in Invisalign cleansing crystals
It is good to rinse the aligners every time you take them out to reduce bacteria buildup. Please avoid running them under hot water, as extreme temperatures can warp the plastic.
How Often Do I Need To Wear The Aligners?
Aligners need to be worn at all times during your treatment. The only exception to remove them is during meals and while brushing and flossing your teeth. Wearing them less often will delay your results.
Are There Any Eating Restrictions While Wearing Them?
One of the best advantages of the Invisalign system over traditional wire braces is that there is no banned foods list! As long as you are brushing and flossing before putting your aligners back in, you can enjoy all your favorite foods without compromising your orthodontic treatment!
Can I Chew Gum With Invisalign?
Gum will stick to your aligners, so it’s not a very good idea to chew it while wearing them. Take your aligners out for all meals and snacks, including the sweet stuff.
Can I Smoke With Invisalign?
We discourage all smoking. However, smoking should especially be avoided during Invisalign treatment, as it can stain and discolor the aligners, as well as put you at risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Will I Need Retainers When I’m Finished?
Retainers are necessary at the end of any orthodontic treatment, whether you’re using Invisalign or traditional wire braces because it takes time for teeth to get used to their new positions. Make sure to wear your retainers as directed by your orthodontist.
If we missed any of your questions in this Invisalign FAQ guide, we’d be happy to answer them when you come in for a consultation!