Before committing to a dental treatment, it makes perfect sense that you would want to familiarize yourself with the process and get an idea of what you might be getting into. Invisalign aligners, for example, are a popular orthodontic treatment, but they’re not for everyone. If you’re considering this smile-straightening option, read up on these four facts that you should know about!
1. The Trays Can Feel Tight
Rest assured, many patients report that Invisalign is more comfortable than traditional braces overall. That said, when you insert the trays for the first time, the tightness can be pretty surprising! Most patients find that this sensation doesn’t prevent them from eating their normal diet, though, and remark that the discomfort doesn’t last long. If you find it bothersome, take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed until your teeth adjust.
2. The Dry Mouth is Real!
Because they’re a foreign oral device that fit snugly over your teeth, Invisalign trays tend to dry your mouth out. Eventually your mouth should get used to them and produce more saliva, but in the meantime, it’s a good idea to be extra careful about staying hydrated. Mixing electrolyte powder into your water can help your body retain moisture better and can also help you feel more refreshed!
3. 22-Hour Wear Can Be Challenging
At first glance, wearing Invisalign for 22 hours per day might not seem like a big deal. After all, you would have to wear metal braces 24/7! But Invisalign’s removability feature can make it tempting to leave your trays out while drinking coffee, enjoying breakfast, then drinking another coffee, and during a mid-morning snack…next thing you know, they’ve been out of your mouth for an hour or two!
You might have to think outside the box to keep your motivation going, like downloading a habit-tracking app or creating a smile picture board to remind you what’s at the end of your treatment.
4. You’ll Quickly Notice a Difference!
If you stay on track with your 22-hour wear times and your overall progress, Invisalign does start to show results quickly. You might start to notice your teeth straightening after just two weeks, and the average patient typically completes their treatment in six to 12 months. You could have your dream smile before you know it!
Is Invisalign Right for Me?
Invisalign aligners can do wonders for your teeth, and many patients do prefer them over metal braces. However, they are a commitment, so it’s a good idea to do your homework and carefully consider your personal preferences. Your dentist can help with this through a consultation! If you’re considering Invisalign, give them a call and schedule a time where you can talk about it in more detail. They’ll be happy to help you choose the best option for you and your smile.
About the Practice
At Care 32 Dental of Fort Worth, we have three highly experienced dentists on-staff, each with their own specialties. Dr. Krunal Desai is our Invisalign certified provider, meaning he’s received training for this treatment directly from Align Technology. If you’d like to know more about this orthodontic option, he’d be happy to discuss the details with you during a consultation! To contact our office, call 817-741-1300.