Since Invisalign is a household name, you likely already know a lot about clear aligner treatment – from how discreet the trays are to the fact that you don’t have to alter your diet. But what if you want to learn more about this teeth-straightening service before signing on the dotted line? Well, you’re in the right place! Below, you will find the answers to frequently asked questions about Invisalign!
1. Does Invisalign Hurt?
Let’s start with one of the most popular questions: does Invisalign hurt? If this question has been heavy on your mind, you’ll be happy to know that the answer is “no.” After all, there aren’t any metal brackets or wires, and the trays are custom-made to fit comfortably! With all of that said, you can expect to feel some slight soreness as your teeth begin to move. To combat this sensation, try sipping on cool water, sticking to soft foods, and taking OTC pain medication as directed.
2. How Often Do I Have to Wear My Aligners?
As much as possible! Remember, the aligners only work while you’re wearing them, so you need to do your best to meet the 20-22 hour-a-day mark. One of the easiest ways to meet this goal is to only remove them when absolutely necessary, like when eating or brushing your teeth.
3. How Long Does Invisalign Take?
The average treatment timeline with Invisalign is 12-18 months. Of course, the length of yours depends entirely on your unique treatment plan, like how many aligners are in the series and how often you switch to the next set of trays. It’s also crucial that you follow the treatment guidelines to a tee to avoid falling off-track, like storing your aligners properly to avoid losing them.
4. My Aligners Are Yellow. What Should I Do?
If your aligners are starting to yellow, then try going back to the basics. Only drink water with your trays on. Rinse them thoroughly with clean, cool water each time you remove them. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean them after each meal. Best practices like these will help keep your aligners clean and clear.
5. Where Should I Put My Trays When I’m Eating?
Before eating, you should rinse your aligners thoroughly with clean, cool water before placing them in their designated storage case. If you leave them on the table or wrap them in a napkin instead, then there’s a significantly higher chance that they’ll break, get thrown away, or be misplaced.
About the Practice
If you’re interested in learning more about Invisalign – whether you already started orthodontic treatment or are still in the research phase – please know our board-certified orthodontist along with the rest of our team at Dr. Glen’s Happy Teeth is here to help! We’d be happy to share the treatment process, the technology we use, our recommendations on how to stay on-track, and other helpful information every step of the way. If you want to learn more, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (516) 517-0331.