Invisalign is a fairly straightforward orthodontic treatment.
If you are concerned about the appearance of your smile because of crooked teeth, you might consider Invisalign clear aligners. The treatment is a popular alternative to traditional metal braces, and is particularly appealing to adults who are looking for a discreet option. Read on to find out what you should know about this orthodontic solution before you go ahead with the treatment…
1. Check if you’re a suitable candidate first
Before you decide on Invisalign as your treatment of choice and rule out other methods of straightening your teeth, it is important that you consult with your dentist to check that you are a suitable candidate. You should understand that although Invisalign can be used to address a broad range of issues, it generally works best in the case of mild to moderate crooked and misaligned teeth. Severe malocclusions and complex bite-related issues are often better treated with other orthodontic solutions, such as traditional metal braces.
2. You’ll need to wear your aligners all day
In order to achieve the best possible results, you will need to wear your clear aligners for around 22 hours every day. You can remove them when you eat and drink, as well as when you brush and floss your teeth, but other than that, it is advisable that you keep your aligners in your mouth for most of the day and night.
The good news is that your aligners will be custom-made to fit your mouth, so they will feel comfortable. Once you have adjusted to the feeling of wearing your aligners for many hours at a time, you should not have any trouble keeping them in.
3. Take them out for eating
It is very important that you take your clear aligners out every time that you eat or drink something other than water. Hot drinks, such as tea and coffee, can warp the plastic, while many foods and beverages can cause stains and discolouration on your aligners.
Removing your aligners for eating will also help to protect your oral health. Be sure to brush your teeth after eating, and rinse your aligners before placing them back in your mouth. This will keep both your teeth and your aligners clean, and reduce the build-up of plaque and harmful bacteria.
4. Expect a little time to adjust
Although Invisalign clear aligners are generally considered to be very comfortable, it can take some time for you to get used to the feeling of having something in your mouth all the time. You might feel some mild discomfort when your aligners are first fitted, but this should resolve within a week or so.
You might also feel some mild discomfort when you swap out your aligners for a new set, or when your teeth begin to shift as a result of pressure. This discomfort will be temporary, but don’t hesitate to discuss the issue with your dentist if you are concerned.
How can we help?
At Blue Star Dental, we offer a range of cosmetic dentistry services, including Invisalign clear aligners. Often an ideal treatment for those who would like to straighten their smile in a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing manner, Invisalign involves the use of a series of clear, removable aligners.
If you would like to straighten your smile, and are not sure whether or not you are a suitable candidate for Invisalign, we encourage you to come in and see us. We will assess your teeth and bite and let you know if the treatment is right for you, depending on your needs and aesthetic goals.
To find out more about Invisalign and what the treatment process involves at Blue Star Dental, please have a look here.
To book an appointment, please contact us here or give us a call on (07) 3801 3499. We look forward to helping you achieve a straighter, healthier and more beautiful smile.