You know that Invisalign can correct plenty of different alignment issues, that the aligners stay crystal clear with proper care, and that you’re allowed to eat whatever you want while you wait for your teeth to straighten out. But you’re not exactly sure what to expect from the experience. You’ll have to wear Invisalign for a year or more, so it makes sense to know what you’re getting into before starting treatment! Here are four things you should know before committing to Invisalign.
1. You Might Have a Lisp at First
The key phrase to keep in mind here is “at first.” When you receive your very first set of aligners, they’ll likely feel a little strange in your mouth. Some patients have trouble enunciating clearly, making it difficult to pronounce “th,” “s,” and “z” sounds. However, with time, you should get used to clear plastic and be able to talk as you normally would.
2. The Tightness Isn’t as Bad as Braces Pain
Invisalign can be uncomfortable when you insert a new set of trays. Most patients describe the sensation as feeling “tight,” and note that they experience a little bit of sensitivity. Those that are familiar with metal braces, though, say that the discomfort isn’t anything like braces pain. Braces cause soreness and aching that gets worse when biting down on non-soft foods. Invisalign, fortunately, usually only causes mild unpleasantness and is far less likely to affect your diet.
3. It’s a Good Idea to Stay Hydrated
Well, it’s a good idea to stay hydrated regardless of whether you’re undergoing an Invisalign treatment. But since these aligners can dry out your mouth, you might want to make sure you have water on-hand whenever you go out. It might seem like a simple solution, but it can make a big impact on your Invisalign experience!
4. You’ll Need to Wear a Retainer
Teeth are generally resistant to change and movement. Because they’ll be inclined to revert to their original positions, you’ll have to wear a retainer to prevent them from becoming crooked again after your treatment. Depending on your teeth, you may only have to wear it for a few hours a day or while you sleep at night – or your dentist may simply provide you with a fixed retainer that will stay in your mouth 24/7.
This isn’t an exhaustive list of what you can expect from an Invisalign treatment, so be sure to talk to your dentist about the process! They’ll be able to not only answer your questions, but also provide personalized advice based on your unique situation. Give them a call to schedule a consultation and find out whether Invisalign is right for you.
About the Author
Dr. Carol Morgan has over 25 years of experience in the field of dentistry, and is an active member of the International Association for Orthodontics. She’s very familiar with the Invisalign experience, and will gladly give you an idea of what you can expect. If you have questions or concerns about Invisalign or other dental matters, call 757-412-1400 to schedule your appointment today!