If you have been thinking about straightening your teeth, you have likely heard of Invisalign – the alternative to traditional wire braces that are virtually invisible. Aside from knowing this obvious difference, you probably have a lot of questions about it.
Here are the most common questions when people are considering getting Invisalign:
Aside from being virtually invisible, what are the other key benefits of Invisalign?
- Invisalign provides you with a video that shows how your teeth currently look and how they will move into their new position, enabling you to see how your smile will look after your treatment is completed
- People often feel more confident and less self-conscious with Invisalign as compared to wearing wire braces…especially adults
- They are removed when you eat and drink (except for water), so you don’t have to worry about food getting caught in them (They also need to be removed to prevent food from getting trapped underneath, as bacteria will start to fester and this could lead to tooth decay)
- They are removed when you brush and floss, so you can clean your teeth like you normally would, ensuring fresh breath and good oral hygiene
- There are no wires or metal brackets to potentially irritate your mouth
- There is less time spent at your dental office because no adjustments are needed
What are the Invisalign aligners made of?
The aligners are made of a thermoplastic material, similar to teeth whitening trays.
How do the Invisalign aligners straighten teeth?
Depending on how much movement your teeth need, you will be given a series of custom-made aligners to move your teeth in sequence.
The aligners fit snug over your teeth, making slight adjustments to the position of your teeth as time goes on. They will continuously shift your teeth closer and closer to the desired end result.
You will wear each set of aligners for two weeks.
How long do I have to wear the Invisalign aligners for?
Aligners need to be worn 22 hours per day. They should only be taken out when you eat, drink anything other than water, brush, and floss.
The length of treatment from beginning to end depends on how much movement your teeth need. Everyone is different. After you get the impressions at your dental office, Invisalign will then determine how long your specific treatment will take.
How often do I have to see my dentist while getting treated?
Ideally, you will see your dentist every four to six weeks to ensure everything is progressing as planned.
Is it uncomfortable to wear the Invisalign aligners?
Your teeth are shifting when you are wearing the aligners, so you may feel some minor discomfort when you first switch your aligners, but it is not at all painful.
Can Invisalign fix the gaps in my teeth?
Yes! The gaps in your teeth can be closed in with Invisalign.
Do I have to wear a retainer after?
Yes! If you don’t wear a retainer, your teeth will shift back and you will lose all of the progress that you made (not to mention waste the money that you spent on treatment). It is VERY important to be diligent in wearing your retainers. You may also be able to get a wire retainer on your bottom teeth, which you won’t even notice is there after a while.
I had traditional wire braces when I was younger, but my teeth have since shifted. Would Invisalign be a good choice for me?
Absolutely! If you had braces when you were younger, getting Invisalign now likely won’t take too long to achieve your desired results. This is something that your dentist will be able to discuss with you.
Will wearing Invisalign affect the way I talk?
Like everything new, it may take a little bit of time to get used to, but you won’t have any problems speaking.
Can I chew gum while wearing Invisalign?
No. The gum would stick to the aligners. Also, if the gum had sugar in it, the sugar could then get trapped between your teeth and the aligners and could lead to decay.
Are you ready to get the smile you always dreamed of? Call us at Townline Dental to book a consultation for Invisalign in Abbotsford today: 604-744-1513
