If you dread the thought of wearing unsightly metal braces, Invisalign could be a terrific approach to strengthening your teeth. Invisalign is made of clear plastic that won't undermine your overall appearance. However, there are a few things you should be aware of before proceeding with this treatment option. Read on for the six Invisalign facts you should know before committing to treatment.
1. You must wear your aligners for almost the whole day
For your treatment to be successful, you must wear your clear aligners for 20 to 22 hours every day. Removing them is allowed only when eating and brushing your teeth. Otherwise, they should stay in place for the most effective results. If you don't wear them for this long, you might not get the results you want, and your treatment plan will take longer.
2. You should carry a toothbrush with you
Since you only remove your aligners for meals, it's critical to always carry a toothbrush and toothpaste with you. This will allow you to clean your teeth properly before pitting your aligners back on, lessening the chance of tooth decay, cavities, and bad breath by clearing out any food particles that could be lodged in your aligners or the area surrounding your teeth. The majority of individuals find it a little strange to brush their teeth in front of others, but after the first week or two, they typically grow used to it.
3. Treatment time wearies from patient to patient
Each person's orthodontic treatment with Invisalign takes a different amount of time. It depends on how badly your teeth are out of alignment and how well you adhere to your dentist's instructions. Treatment typically lasts between 12 and 18 months. If your dentist originally estimates that the treatment will take 12 months, this may change, particularly if your teeth do not move as anticipated, necessitating slight adjustments.
4. You would have to see your dentist every couple of weeks
Before receiving Invisalign, it's crucial to understand that you will need to see your dentist every few weeks so they can monitor how your treatment is going. During these sessions, you will also receive a new set of aligners. Even though these appointments can often be brief and may seem unimportant, attending them is crucial if you want to continue your treatment on schedule.
5. You would probably cut back on snacks
You could notice that you eat fewer snacks since you will have to take your aligners out when enjoying food. This is because you might only want to do this when eating a substantial meal, as it might be inconvenient to take your aligners in and out constantly. As an extra advantage of Invisalign, this may lead to weight loss or help you maintain a healthy weight.
6. You would have to wear a retainer afterward
Even after your treatment is completed, you must wear a retainer at night. This is related to the likelihood of your teeth changing their position over time. Wearing a retainer will keep your teeth in place and help safeguard the treatment results. The majority of patients have no trouble wearing retainers because they are very similar to clear aligners.
7. The cost of the treatment can vary
It might be challenging to determine the precise cost of your Invisalign procedure. It varies from person to person and is often less expensive if you've already worn braces. Most people may achieve all of their goals for between $3,000 and $5,000. Additionally, a lot of insurance companies may pay for Invisalign procedures so that you may get a new smile fast and cheaply.
I am Amelia Grant, journalist, and blogger. I think that information is a great force that is able to change people’s lives for the better. That is why I feel a strong intention to share useful and important things about health self-care, wellness and other advice that may be helpful for people. Being an enthusiast of a healthy lifestyle that keeps improving my life, I wish the same for everyone.