15 Things to Know About Invisalign

If you’re not familiar with the product and the process, we’re going to take a closer look at how it works and what to know about Invisalign before you get it.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign uses clear aligner trays to straighten teeth. They resemble aligners worn for teeth whitening. They are clear and fit your teeth so no one needs to know that you’re trying to achieve a straighter smile. The process is typically shorter than it would be with traditional metal braces. Invisalign has become a popular choice for adults and teenagers who want to transform their teeth and avoid traditional braces.

What to Know About Invisalign

If the idea of Invisalign interests you, there are some things you should do before you get started so that you know what to expect.

1. Invisalign Trays Are Custom-Made

Invisalign trays are going to look different for everyone. When you decide to get Invisalign, your dental provider will scan your mouth so that the Invisalign lab can create a series of aligners for your mouth. The number of trays you’ll need will depend on how much work needs to be done to straighten your teeth. Trays are changed every week to two weeks. 

2. Costs Vary

Since everyone is going to need a different number of trays, the cost is going to vary from person to person. Once you have a consultation with your orthodontist, they will have a better idea of how much treatment you’ll need and will be able to quote you a price.

3. You’re Going to Have to Eat & Drink Quicker

To get the best results in a shorter time, it’s recommended to wear Invisalign for 20-22 hours a day. That means there’s not much time left in the day to eat and drink. If you like to sip your morning coffee or your glass of wine at dinner, you’ll need to wait until you’re done with the process to savor your food and beverages. Some people like this part of the Invisalign process because they say it leaves them less time to snack which can improve their waistlines!

4. There May be Some Discomfort

Although the trays are clear and easy to get in and out, you may experience some discomfort, especially when you just put in a new tray. The aligners put pressure on your mouth to move your teeth into place. This can hurt a bit, but the discomfort usually subsides quickly.

5. You May Have “Buttons” on Your Teeth

Depending on your treatment, you may have “buttons” on some of your teeth. These are small, tooth-colored brackets your orthodontist will put on your teeth. They act as anchors to help correct overbites and underbites. These are put on when the aligners need some help to get your teeth where they need to be. Besides straightening your teeth, your bite also needs to line up properly. These attachments help to achieve that.

6. You May Need Rubber Bands

While some people need buttons, others require rubber bands to get their teeth in the right position. These work the same way as they do with traditional braces.

7. You May Talk with a Lisp

When you first get your aligners, you may notice that you talk with a slight lisp. This is because the aligners can alter the space in your mouth. A lisp will usually go away as you adjust to having the aligners in your mouth.

8. Prepare to Brush and Floss…A Lot!

When it comes to what to know about Invisalign, be aware that every time you take your aligners out to eat you should brush and floss. This helps to keep food from getting trapped between your teeth. You don’t want to pop your aligners in after you just eat because it can stain your trays which is bad for your teeth.

9. You Can Only Drink Water with Your Aligners In

When you have your aligners in, you can only drink water. If you take a sip of anything else, you run the risk of staining your aligners.

10. Removing Your Aligners in Public May Not be That Attractive

When you need to pop your aligners out at dinner, you’ll want to leave the table, or do it before you go out. If your aligners are fitting snuggly (as they should), taking them out isn’t going to be that attractive. They come out with a bit of saliva which isn’t what you want on the menu!

11. Your Teeth May Feel Loose

Since your teeth are moving to their new positions, it’s normal if they feel a little loose when the aligners are out. If you think they’re too loose, tell your orthodontist so they can check to make sure everything is okay.

12. Your Mouth Can Get Really Dry

While you may have a lot of saliva when you’re taking your trays out, you may notice that your mouth is dry when they’re in. This typically goes away, but it can be annoying. Some people report the opposite problem…too much saliva in their mouths! Either way, you’ll learn to adjust.

13. You’ll Need to Wear a Retainer

Once you’re done with your Invisalign trays, you’ll need to wear a retainer to prevent your teeth from moving back into their old positions.

14. Morning Breath Will be a Thing

When you wake up in the morning, don’t be surprised if you have a nasty case of morning breath. Bacteria can build up in your mouth and your aligners overnight. Brush your teeth and clean your aligners in the morning to minimize the problem.

15. Results are Quicker Than with Traditional Braces

People see progress in their smiles quicker than with traditional braces. If you’re wearing your aligners as you should (20-22 hours daily), you should start seeing results after about a month of wearing them.

Are You Ready for Invisalign?

If you think you’re ready for Invisalign, contact us today at  919-330-1710 for a consultation. Our experienced team in Morrisville, NC can discuss how the process works and your specific case so you can decide if Invisalign is right for you.