15 Jul Your Most Invisalign Questions Answered
Invisalign is a revolutionary approach to straightening your teeth. This orthodontic treatment system aligns teeth without the need for fixed oral appliances like brackets and wires. Instead, patients wear discreet appliances that are constructed from clear plastic.
If you’re wanting to learn more about Invisalign, following are answers to common questions.
What does Invisalign look like?
Invisalign is clear and made from smooth plastic. When worn, those around you will not be able to notice that you’re receiving orthodontic treatment. Worn over teeth like a retainer, Invisalign is custom made so that its oral appliances (called “aligners”) conform to your teeth and the shape of your mouth.
How does treatment work?
Invisalign treatment is broken up into phases with each phase involving its own set of custom aligners. Phases normally last about two weeks. As each phase is completed, patients will switch to a new, tighter set of aligners. As aligners become tighter, teeth become straighter. Patients will wear aligners throughout the day and night, except for meals and when they need to brush and floss.
Is Invisalign comfortable?
Many people find Invisalign noticeably more comfortable than conventional braces. This is likely because aligners don’t have sharp surfaces that could irritate soft tissue. When it comes to meals and oral hygiene, Invisalign is considered more comfortable than conventional braces because aligners are removable.
How do I clean my teeth and my Invisalign appliances?
Keeping your mouth and teeth clean is easy with Invisalign. When it’s time for brushing and flossing, you’ll simply remove your aligners and perform your oral hygiene routine as normal.
As far as cleaning your aligners, you will need to rinse them in cool or lukewarm tap water. Never use hot water as it could warp them. Soaking aligners in a solution recommended by your dentist is also very important. Some patients will brush their aligners from time to time with a soft-bristled brush dedicated just to cleaning Invisalign.
If you’re yearning for a straighter, healthier smile, now’s the time to make an appointment for an Invisalign consultation with our dentist.