Invisalign braces are all the rage these days. They allow adults an alternative to traditional metal braces, and they will enable you to remove them as you go about your day. Invisalign can be expensive, however, and before you have Invisalign, it’s a good idea to know everything there is to know. Here are some essential things to know before you use this product.
What Is Invisalign?
The Invisalign system uses a transparent plastic aligner to straighten teeth without requiring metal braces. The system has been around for over 20 years and has become more popular in the last decade. The Invisalign system consists of aligners, which are removable tooth-shaped appliances worn by patients and retainers. Invisalign also offers a more comfortable experience for patients because the brackets are made from translucent plastic rather than metal. Moreover, thanks to its transparent nature, it significantly boosts self-esteem in those worried about their appearance with traditional braces.
Things To Know Before Getting Invisalign
It’s important to know what to expect before getting Invisalign and what you need to do during the treatment. For example, the cost depends on the type and number of aligners, and treatment costs can range from $1800 to $9500 depending on the complexity of your issues if you have insurance that covers this treatment, and what your deductible is. However, there are multiple other factors you should be aware of before investing in this brace system.
They Are Not Free From Discomfort
Many people are afraid of wearing Invisalign because they think they will be uncomfortable. But in reality, they are not as painful as you think. The Invisalign system is not uncomfortable, but the process of wearing it can be. It is important to remember that there are no pain-free aligners on the market today. Some people feel a slight pinch or pressure from the aligner, but most patients do not experience any discomfort. In addition to being uncomfortable, some people also feel like their teeth are moving during treatment or that they have trouble eating and speaking correctly with these aligners in place. Nonetheless, most of the pain or discomfort that arises from the braces can be mitigated with over-the-counter painkillers.
Proper Dental Hygiene Is Vital
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial when wearing Invisalign. Although brushing your teeth and flossing has always been important, it will become even more critical when wearing your Invisalign aligners. If you don’t floss, food particles, plaque, and other particles can accumulate between your teeth if you don’t floss. When this happens, the debris can end up on your aligners. As a result, your aligners may become clogged with dental debris, causing them not to fit your teeth properly. Obviously, this is a very uncomfortable experience and one that can be avoided by practicing proper flossing.
You’ll Need To Adjust Your Speech
It is possible that Invisalign will affect your speech, which is one of its few disadvantages. If you put them on for the first time, you will likely begin speaking with a lisp. So you don’t come across as a surprise when you talk, you need to prepare yourself for this. It’s a normal reaction when you put these products in your mouth, and unfortunately, there’s nothing you can do about it. The easiest way to overcome a lisp caused by your Invisalign aligners is to practice enunciating the words you have difficulty pronouncing. It just takes a little practice and an understanding that it won’t last forever.
Individual Treatment Lengths Vary
Invisalign treatment lengths vary per person, so it is vital to find a dentist who is experienced in Invisalign and has experience treating patients with your specific needs. Some people can get their treatment done in as little as six months, while others may need up to two years. It might only last a few months if you have just a slight misalignment. Conversely, if your teeth need extensive work, the process will take longer.
Aligners Need To Be Cleaned Regularly
Although this system provides a more discreet way of correcting your teeth than traditional braces, it still needs regular maintenance. Regularly cleaning Invisalign ensures that the aligners are working correctly and prevents any infections or other complications from occurring. Cleaning your Invisalign regularly also helps you maintain hygiene in your mouth, leading to fewer cavities and gum disease.
Invisalign Produces Faster Results Than Metal Braces
Although results will vary from person to person, as discussed previously, most Invisalign users discover faster results than those wearing conventional metal braces. With this treatment, you wear a set of clear trays that you exchange every fortnight for new aligners that help incrementally straighten your teeth. The results are a quicker straightening process.
When it comes to straightening your smile, Invisalign is an excellent option. However, there are some things you should be aware of and which this post has covered. Nonetheless, it will be the best choice you have ever had, and once your treatment is finished, you’ll have an award-winning smile!
