Invisalign Information: 3 Things to Know Before Treatment

If you’re dreaming of having a straighter smile but don’t want to have bulky brackets permanently bonded to your teeth, then you could probably benefit from Invisalign. This alternative to traditional braces relies on clear aligners that fit snuggly over your pearly whites to shift them into their ideal places. It has gained popularity over the years because it’s more discrete than the tried-and-true method and patients feel less self-conscious as a result.

When it comes to dental treatments, however, it’s important to know what’s involved so you can make an informed decision. Keep reading to learn about 3 things you should know before getting Invisalign!

#1: It’s a Commitment

One of the main differences between traditional braces and clear aligners is that the former is permanently fixed to your teeth while the latter is removable. That means you’ll have to be responsible for wearing your trays for the allotted time for them to be effective. You’ll need to keep Invisalign in your mouth for 22 hours every day to keep your teeth from reverting to their previous positions. Then, every one to two weeks, your dentist will provide a new set of aligners to account for their ongoing movement. The good news is that typically treatment is completed in only 12 months, though it can be more or less depending on your circumstances.

#2: It Requires Extra Care

If you don’t already, you’ll need to implement a consistent at-home dental hygiene routine of brushing and flossing at least twice daily (if not more frequently) as well as cleansing your aligners. Bacteria get trapped and can thrive in the space between the trays and your teeth, which can cause tooth decay or gum disease if not cleared away regularly.

To clean your aligners, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear antibacterial soap instead of toothpaste which can be abrasive and damage the material. You can also soak them in a solution of special cleaning crystals that can kill up to 99% of unwanted germs.

#3: It Can Be Uncomfortable Initially

Many patients want to know whether Invisalign hurts. Although it’s not considered painful in general, anything that exerts enough pressure on your teeth to move them is bound to cause a certain degree of discomfort. For example, it’s normal to feel some mild aches in the first two weeks of wearing your initial set of aligners. Fortunately, the throbbing is usually mild and usually can be managed effectively with over-the-counter medications like Tylenol or ibuprofen.

If you have additional questions about Invisalign, contact your dentist’s office. They can provide as much information as you need to feel confident that this is the right choice for you!

About the Practice

At Chicago Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, people of all ages benefit from a team of experts who offer a full array of oral health services under one roof. They are experienced in handling smiles at all stages of development so that no matter what your dental needs are, they can provide solutions. Their compassionate staff goes the extra mile to ensure you and your entire family feel comfortable and welcomed at every visit, so you can trust that you’re in good hands. Plus, by using state-of-the-art technology you know you’re getting the most current treatments. If you’d like to straighten your grin, you’re welcome to request a consultation on the website or by calling (312) 766-0995.