Today, there are several orthodontic treatments to choose from. This is a blessing, but it can feel like a curse when you’re trying to decide which one is best for you. To make the decision-making process a bit easier, you’ll find a few things you should know before getting Invisalign below!
1. You Need to Wear Your Aligners for 20-22 Hours a Day
Having removable aligners comes with several noteworthy perks, including no dietary restrictions and hassle-free oral hygiene. Of course, it also comes with some responsibilities, like making an effort to wear your trays for 22 hours a day. One way to make this goal a bit easier is by creating a solid routine with the help of the stopwatch on your phone!
2. Attachments May Be Included in Your Treatment Plan
Patients often assume that Invisalign only involves clear aligners. That’s not the case! Depending on the complexity of your case, other orthodontic accessories may be added to your treatment plan, including attachments. The good news is that these aren’t metal either, so, even if they are necessary, they won’t draw any unwanted attention to your smile.
3. Any Discomfort You Experience Is Temporary
One perk of Invisalign is that the aligners are crafted from smooth, low-profile plastic instead of sharp, bulky metal. Of course, that doesn’t mean that you won’t experience any discomfort as your teeth are moving into their properly aligned positions. You can have peace of mind knowing that this sensation is temporary, and you can alleviate it with a few simple steps, like sipping on cool water.
4. Your Diet Might Change Slightly
Although there aren’t any dietary restrictions, your eating habits might change slightly. For example, you may stop snacking in an effort to meet your wear time. For the same reason, you might also start drinking your coffee alongside your breakfast instead of separately. It might also be helpful to steer clear of extremely crunchy foods, like tortilla chips, to help prevent a broken attachment.
5. You’re Not Done After Invisalign
Simply put, your orthodontic treatment won’t be done after your last aligner. Instead, a custom retainer is made, which you will need to wear as directed. If you don’t, then there’s a chance that your teeth will begin to move back into their previously misaligned positions (a phenomenon known as “orthodontic relapse”).
About the Practice
For our team at Super Dental of Fitchburg, the goal isn’t just to straighten your teeth; it’s to make every facet of your orthodontic treatment positive, smooth, and stress-free. That’s why we offer several different types of braces as well as multiple financial solutions and convenient appointment times. If you want to learn more about Invisalign – including if you’re a candidate or what life with clear aligners looks like – then don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (978)-216-1515.