Did you already know that orthodontics made from titanium are not the only option available to straighten teeth? Are you considering whether or not to get Invisalign?
People of all ages are turning to Invisalign every day to address a variety of smile complaints. This is not an age dependent treatment, although permanent teeth should have already appeared. Learn more about what it’s really like to use Invisalign aligner trays, and pick up some helpful tips along the read:
Is Invisalign Right for You?
As many dentists will tell you about Invisalign, “this is a YOU choice”. It is an investment in you, your smile, and your self-esteem. Invisalign is used to straighten smiles that are crooked or misaligned, underbites, and overbites. The first step on the road to Invisalign would be to meet with your dentist for a smile evaluation, followed by a discussion of your treatment goals.
Should it be determined that Invisalign is the right choice for you and your budget to accomplish your smile goals, this information will be useful:
Cleaning Your Appliances
Having Invisalign can create challenges in keeping your teeth clean. However, with supporting complementary dental tools for home, a healthy mouth can be achieved while wearing your Invisalign. Other than water, You should not eat or drink while wearing your Invisalign retainers.
Switching Your Aligners
During the Invisalign process, you routinely switch out new aligner trays that work with “guides” or “buttons” the dental staff has adhered to your teeth. These are adapted with each aligner tray change. Your dental office educates you on swapping out the clear aligner every two weeks for the next one in your sequence, allowing your teeth to move/shift slowly in a safe, controlled way. It’s likely you’ll be advised to wear them twenty-two hours per day.
Keeping Your Retainers Clean
You should remove the aligners at least twice daily, rinsing them and then brushing both your teeth and the plastic aligner before reinserting. Every time you have a snack or drink, brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in. The aligners can collect plaque, and develop hard, discolored deposits on your teeth from food and drink, just like your teeth do.
Prevent Demineralization
The fact that you should never return the aligners to your mouth without brushing and flossing can not be stressed enough. Foregoing this step leads to demineralization and/or decay as the minerals that keep the teeth strong get leached out from bacterial plaque. This germ filled plaque then creates acids that attack the integrity of your teeth as it sits on them. It only takes twenty minutes for an acid attack on the teeth to occur from bacterial plaque.
When to Wear Your Aligners
You’re expected to be wearing your aligners whenever you are not eating or drinking, including when you’re asleep. Twenty-two hours a day, everyday, is typically the goal for wearing the aligners. Keeping a glass of water near your bedside in case your mouth gets dry can be helpful while adjusting to the new oral appliance.
What to Expect
Introducing anything new to your daily routine can take some getting used to, and the same is true for Invisalign. When beginning your use of Invisalign, your tongue can become sore as it becomes familiar with all the new gear in your mouth by feeling its way around it. Try to avoid doing this the best you can. Your teeth can also become sore within the first few days of wearing a new aligner tray since they are meant to be snug, loosening over time as teeth do necessary shifting. It can be a slight struggle to remove the aligners for the first few days because they’re snug by design. Your team of dental professionals will show you the proper way to do this. If your gums develop sore spots or irritation, let your dental team know so they can evaluate and smooth out any rough edges on your appliances.
Speaking with Invisalign
Be patient with yourself, as it can take time to get used to wearing the mouthguard-like appliance, let alone speaking in it. Speaking with your new aligners will likely seem tricky at first. Many people speak with a lisp at first, but with continued practice, you’ll become used to it, typically in about two weeks.
What Others Are Saying
Christine Perez
“I had a great experience. Everyone is so great. I have a Beautiful smile. Now.”
Anthony Young
“They are very friendly and professional, answer every and any questions you may have about the procedure, process and things related to dentistry. The staff make you comfortable and relaxed. The Doctor is a straight shooter, has no problem telling you the truth. Over all, great experience.”
Rebekah Chester
“There is nothing I can say negative about Southshore Dental. Dr. Patel and his staff have made each visit pleasant and enjoyable as possible. On each visit we were warmly greeted by the staff and made to feel at home. Whenever Dr. Patel has recommended any type of dental procedures, he thoroughly explains the reason and the treatment involved. The staff at Southshore have always been courteous and professional. I couldn’t ask for a better dental care for my family.”
Conclusion
To learn more, have questions answered, or to get started with Invisalign, the skilled and professional team at Southshore Dental can help you get the smile you’ve always wanted, and there’s never been a better time to act. At Southshore Dental, you can now get up to $2,000 OFF Invisalign, get free teeth whitening, and start with $0 down! Call (734) 675-0585 to take the first step toward Invisalign to schedule your consultation today and this friendly dental team will walk you through the rest.
