What Do I Need to Know Before Getting Invisalign?

• Invisalign trays must be worn at least 22 hours a day – This is something to really think about before committing. Any less than 22 hours a day—every day—can affect the duration and effectiveness of your treatment.
• You can take your Invisalign trays out to eat – This means you can eat what you want, which gives Invisalign a major advantage over traditional braces. Think buttery popcorn, sticky peanut butter, and crunchy carrots. Yum.
• Your Invisalign treatment is customized just for you – Even though Invisalign trays may look alike, they’re all distinctly unique. Your trays are created specifically for each you, and each tray you wear is designed to move your teeth closer and closer to your perfect smile.
• Invisalign treatment is fast and effective – Treatment with traditional metal braces takes an average of 18 to 24 months, but the average Invisalign treatment is completed in 12 months. Of course, wearing your trays 22 hours per day is key.
• You may experience some discomfort – Invisalign treatment moves your teeth into proper alignment. This may cause some discomfort, similar to that felt with the tightening of metal braces, especially in the first couple days of a new tray.
• Invisalign treatment is discreet – One of the main perks of Invisalign is that it’s less visible than traditional braces, making it one of the most discreet teeth-straightening methods available.

Taking your trays out to eat in public can be awkward

When you dine with friends or coworkers in public, there’s an awkward moment when it’s time to take your Invisalign trays out. It’s not a big deal, no bigger than the food that gets stuck in metal braces, but we thought we should let you know. Be sure to always put the trays in their container. They should never be left out in the open.

Wearing the trays may affect your speech slightly

While wearing your Invisalign trays, you may have a slight lisp. This is especially important to know if you have a job that requires a lot of public speaking. If you think the lisp will bother you and tempt you to remove the trays, you may want to consider another tooth-straightening method.

Invisalign trays require daily cleaning

Cleaning your Invisalign trays is as important as cleaning your teeth. You’ll need to rinse them when you take them out in the morning, and soak them once a day. This is an important part of keeping your teeth healthy during your Invisalign treatment. 

Your Invisalign tray needs its own cleaning supplies

Don’t use your toothbrush and toothpaste because it could cause your trays to become murky and unattractive. Your dentist will give you instructions on how to clean your trays and what to use to get them clean without scratching or staining them, which is what will help keep them clear and discreet. 

Ready to straighten your smile?  Call University Dental today!

Invisalign is best for minor orthodontic issues, but it’s not an appropriate solution for more complex problems. At University Dental, we offer Invisalign, traditional braces, and other treatments for crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth. For more information about Invisalign or to schedule an orthodontic examination, call University Dental at (619) 473-2565 today.