From what to do if you lose an aligner to how long the average treatment timeline is, many patients are curious about the Invisalign treatment process. Fortunately, the length of your treatment, how to care for your aligners, and more will be covered during your consultation. Of course, if you don’t want to wait until then, you can read on to learn the answers to six common questions about Invisalign!
1. Does Invisalign Hurt?
To be honest, any orthodontic treatment will come with mild discomfort. For most patients, it’s temporary and is limited to the hours after switching to a new aligner. Don’t worry though – you can help alleviate the soreness by sipping on cold water, placing a cold compress against the outside of your cheek, or taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.
2. Will Invisalign Affect My Speech?
Although there is a common misconception that Invisalign will give you a lisp, the large majority of patients don’t report any changes to their speaking patterns! Furthermore, those that do adjust quickly, and the change is so minor that even close friends and family don’t notice. So, don’t let this rumor stop you from discreetly achieving the gorgeous smile you deserve.
3. Is There Any Easy Way to Remove the Aligners?
There is! Start from the back, inside of your mouth and move your way forward. If you have a lot of attachments, focus on lifting the aligner up and over them instead of pulling straight down. If you consistently have trouble, then consider purchasing a clear aligner removal tool!
4. What Should I Do If I Lose an Aligner?
If you lose one of your aligners, retrace your steps and see if you can find it. If you can’t, then call your dentist right away. Over the phone, they can determine what the next best step is, like wearing your previous aligner until your replacement arrives or moving onto the next set of trays in the series.
5. Can I Use Toothpaste to Clean My Aligners?
You can, but it’s typically not recommended since the abrasive ingredients can dull the appearance of your aligners. That’s why patients are encouraged to simply use clean water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. If you want to give your trays a deeper clean, don’t use mouthwash, bleach, or any other household items. Instead, use the cleaning crystals that came in your welcome kit!
6. How Long Does Invisalign Take?
That depends. Although the average is between 12 and 18 months, your treatment timeline will depend on how many aligners are needed, how long you wear each tray, and how severe your misalignment is. Of course, once you begin your treatment, your compliance with the guidelines will also play a role.
About the Practice
At Healthy Smiles Dental, patients can trust their smiles to three talented, experienced, and passionate dental professionals. In addition to traditional braces, they offer Invisalign for patients who are interested in straightening their teeth without the metal brackets and wires. If you are interested in this orthodontic solution, you have a question about the treatment process, or you’d like to schedule a consultation, visit our website or call (810) 720-6433.