Invisalign: What You Need to Know

Are you thinking about straightening your teeth with Invisalign? You have a lot to look forward to! This treatment is effective, convenient, and discreet. Still, it is understandable if you have some Invisalign questions that you would like to have answered before you embark on your treatment. Below, we discuss some of the top FAQs about Invisalign.

How Long Does It Take?

On average, Invisalign takes about 12 months. However, keep in mind that every case is different. If your dental misalignment is pretty mild, you might be wearing Invisalign for just a few months. If your misalignment is moderate or severe, it is likely that your treatment will take longer than a year. Your dentist will be able to give you an estimate for your timeline when you go in for your consultation.

Do the Aligners Hurt?

Invisalign is designed for comfort, but keep in mind that orthodontic treatment moves your teeth through bone, so a degree of soreness is to be expected. In particular, you might experience tenderness when you switch to a new aligner. You can manage the pain by switching aligners at night, using over the counter pain relievers, and sipping on cool water.

What Can I Eat and Drink While Wearing the Aligners?

Cold or room temperature water is the only thing you should consume while the aligners are in your mouth. Adhering to this guideline reduces the risk that Invisalign will become stained or warped. When you remove your aligners, you can eat and drink whatever you like, even foods that would be off-limits with regular braces.

Is Invisalign Really Invisible?

Invisalign aligners are constructed out of a patented material that is designed to be discreet while it moves the teeth — but it isn’t totally unnoticeable. Onlookers may notice that your teeth look a little big or that you have a clear casing around them. With that being said, you can be confident that your treatment won’t get in the way of your confident smile. You are free to remove your aligners for special occasions or photoshoots.

What Should I Do if I Accidentally Lose or Damage an Aligner?

Give your Invisalign provider a call, and they will let you know what to do. In some instances, you might be able to move onto the next aligner a few days early. In other cases, it will be necessary for your dentist to order a replacement aligner. While you are waiting for the replacement, you might have to go back to wearing a previous aligner.

We’ve touched on just a few common Invisalign questions in this article. If you have further questions, your local Invisalign provider would be happy to speak with you!

Meet the Practice

Dr. Sanaz Hemzehpour is an experienced general dentist who has completed extensive post-graduate training in adult orthodontics, and she is proud to be a certified Invisalign provider. Along with the other dentists and specialists in our practice, she offers comprehensive dental care. To learn more about how the team at Blue Coast Dental Group may be able to serve you, contact us at 310-424-3100.