If you are self-conscious and tired of crooked teeth and how they look, the last thing you probably want is bulky and very visible metal brackets. While braces have been one of the more acceptable and traditional ways for teens and adults to correct certain blemishes, it is no longer the only option. Invisalign is one of the newest and most innovative ways to restore crooked teeth currently available for teens and adults. While it holds many advantages, which we will discuss in this blog, you should know everything you need before getting Invisalign. So, keep reading to find out more!
What is Invisalign and How Does it Work?
Invisalign is an alternative to traditional metal braces, currently available for teens (Invisalign Teen) and for adults. This treatment method consists of clear plastic aligners that are expertly fitted to the unique teeth and mouth of each patient. Using advanced technology, patients are fitted with their aligners to fix a range of different problems, including:
- Gapped teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Mild overbite
Each set of Invisalign aligners is worn for about two weeks. The aligners are specially manufactured to move the teeth in small increments. When a new aligner is put in, the teeth in the tray are slightly straighter than the teeth outside of the aligners. This technique puts pressure on the teeth, manipulating your teeth to move over each treatment session. After each aligner replacement, the teeth will continue to move until they have straightened to their final positions. Treatment time depends on each patient but typically lasts about 12-18 months.
Now, here are a few things you need to know about Invisalign:
1. You May Talk a Little Funny in the Beginning
Wearing aligners on your teeth every day is going to be a little bit of an adjustment, especially when trying to talk. Due to the face, the aligners cover the back of your teeth where the tongue moves when speaking, so there can be a little bit of difficulty enunciating certain words. But don’t worry. Patients tend to only experience this for the first couple of days until they get used to the feeling and location of the aligners.
2. No One Will Notice You Wearing Them
Ok, some people, if they look really, really close, may be able to notice that you are wearing the aligners, but generally, unless someone around you is looking for them, they won’t even notice you have them on. This is one of the leading advantages of Invisalign and the main reason patients choose this dental treatment method. Once you have them on, the aligners blend perfectly with your teeth and are very transparent; no one will even notice that you are straightening your teeth. No more unattractive metal brackets affecting your self-confidence every time you open your mouth.
3. You Can Continue to Eat Your Favorite Foods
One of the worst things about wearing metal braces is the fact that you should avoid certain foods. These include:
- Chewy candy
- Bagels
- Chips
- Popcorn
- Chewing gum
- Hard candies
- Nuts
- Apples
- Corn on the cob
- Carrots
- Among others
Many teen and adult treatments can expect to have their braces for 18 months to about three years. That’s a long time to avoid certain foods that you love. So, don’t with Invisalign! Thanks to the ability to remove the aligners, you can take them out before eating. No restrictions. However, it is essential to remember that certain foods can damage the teeth, so ensure that you follow regular dental recommendations on your diet regarding the health of your teeth.
4. Your Dental Routine is Extremely Important with Invisalign
Now, we’re not saying that your dental routine isn’t important on a regular basis, but to ensure that your aligners do the proper job, you must always brush and floss. While taking your aligners off to eat is extremely beneficial, you have to ensure to brush your teeth each time you eat. This is to reduce the chances of staining your aligners which will make them more noticeable and, in time, possibly damage them. We recommend keeping a travel toothbrush on you at all times!
Additionally, don’t forget to floss as well. While it may be a bit inconvenient, it is critical during Invisalign treatment. These aligners fit right against the teeth, pushing them into the right position. If food debris is stuck between your teeth, the aligner will push that debris right against your tooth all day. This can lead to cavities. Therefore, make sure to floss and brush constantly.
5. More Comfortable than Traditional Braces
In addition to being discreet, these aligners are known to be more comfortable when compared to traditional braces. For many patients, the pain associated with brackets leads to an over uncomfortable experience. Remember, treatment time for braces is quite long, and while you may get used to the discomfort, you shouldn’t have to. While braces cause irritation due to the sharp edges that rub and cut against different areas in the mouth, Invisalign custom aligners pop right over the teeth with no sharp edges, similar to a mouth guard.
6. They are Very Effective
While Invisalign is typically not as transformative as braces, it is still ideal for patients with mild conditions such as mildly crooked teeth. Invisalign’s customized plastic aligners allow for teeth to adust and straighten gradually over time. While it’s understandable to have doubts, as metal braces have been around a lot longer, your dentist will never recommend Invisalign if your condition cannot be treated with these clear aligners.
Invisalign Clear Aligners in Palos Park, IL
If you are interested in correcting your smile and want a way that doesn’t include months of metal braced on your teeth, then Invisalign may be right for you. Sheehan Dental provides patients with Invisalign clear aligners in Palos Park, IL. Therefore, if you are interested in an easier, more comfortable way to correct misalignments in your smile, then contact Sheehan Dental to learn more. Book your appointment online.