Pearl Dental Blog
What Does Wearing Invisalign Aligners Feel Like?
Straight, perfect teeth and a pretty smile that light ups the room…
Seems almost unreal, doesn’t it?
What if we told you this could be yours too?
Yes, you can get perfectly aligned and identical teeth with the help of Invisalign aligners.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is one of the most popular and successful forms of orthodontic treatment available today. Using clear plastic aligners that are custom-fitted to your mouth, Invisalign straightens teeth with little disruption to your life or appearance. But how does it feel when you wear Invisalign? Keep reading to find out.
Benefits of Invisalign
While there are several benefits of wearing invisalign aligners, the ones listed below are the most notable ones:
1. Discreet
Invisalign aligners are made of clear plastic, making them much less visible than traditional braces. This makes it much easier to smile, talk, and socialize without feeling self-conscious about the appearance of your teeth.
2. Comfortable
Invisalign aligners are made of a smooth plastic material designed to fit comfortably over your teeth. This eliminates the need for metal brackets and wires, which can often irritate the gums and cheeks.
3. Hygienic
Invisalign aligners are removable, making brushing and flossing your teeth much easier. This helps to keep your mouth clean and healthy and prevents tooth decay and gum disease.
4. Quick
Invisalign treatment generally takes less time than traditional braces, with most cases being completed in 6-18 months.
5. Effective
Invisalign is just as effective as traditional braces when correcting misaligned teeth and improving the overall health of your smile.
What To Expect When Fitting Your Invisalign Aligners
Fitting your Invisalign aligners for the first time can feel a bit strange. Even though they are custom-fitted to your mouth, you may experience some tightness and discomfort as your teeth adjust to the new shape of the aligners. This tightness should subside after a few days. However, if it persists beyond that, you should contact your orthodontist or dental professional.
The Fit of Your Invisalign Aligners Over Time
As you wear and switch out your aligners every couple of weeks, they will loosen up and feel more comfortable. However, the fit should not be so loose that the aligners easily come off or move around when you talk. If your Invisalign aligners are too loose, contact your orthodontist to have them adjusted.
Other Considerations When Wearing Invisalign Aligners
It is important to keep your aligners on for 20-22 hours a day to achieve the desired results. You should also avoid eating sticky, chewy, or crunchy foods while wearing the aligners, as these can damage or stain them. Additionally, it is best to remove them when going swimming, playing sports, and brushing your teeth.
Caring for Your Invisalign Aligners
When you wear Invisalign, it is important to take care of both your teeth and aligners properly. Be sure to brush and floss your teeth after each meal and before putting in a new set of aligners. This will help prevent plaque buildup on the aligners and reduce the chance of tooth decay. You should also clean your aligners regularly with a special cleaning solution made specifically for Invisalign products.
FAQs
Q: How long do I need to wear Invisalign aligners?
A: Generally speaking, you should wear the aligners for 20-22 hours per day for about 9-15 months. However, this timeline may vary depending on how much correction is needed and how well you take care of the aligners.
Q: Can I eat while wearing Invisalign aligners?
A: Yes, but it is best to avoid foods that are sticky, chewy, or crunchy as they can damage or stain the aligners. It is also important to remove them when eating so that food particles don’t get trapped in the aligner.
Q: How much does Invisalign cost?
A: The cost of Invisalign varies based on the severity and complexity of your orthodontic case. Generally speaking, it is more expensive than traditional braces but may be more affordable when considering insurance coverage. Your orthodontist or dentist can provide you with an individualized estimate following an initial consultation.
Wearing Invisalign aligners can feel strange at first as they adjust to the shape of your mouth but they should become more comfortable over time. Be sure to care for your aligners properly by cleaning them regularly and avoiding certain food types that may cause damage or staining. With regular wear and proper care, you will experience an improved smile with little disruption to your lifestyle.