5 Questions to Ask About Your New Invisalign Aligners

Invisalign clear aligners are a popular orthodontic treatment because they fix a variety of conditions. They also improve self-esteem. According to the American Association of Orthodontics, 47% of teen Invisalign users experienced a boost of self-esteem during the treatment process. Here are some common questions about them.

How do they work?

Your orthodontist gives you a series of custom-made clear plastic orthodontic aligners for your teeth. Each one gently moves your teeth until you get your desired smile.

How many clear aligners will I need?

The number of aligners and attachments you’ll need depends on the position of your teeth. No matter how many aligners you use, your orthodontist will give you retainers to wear to help your teeth maintain their new position.

Will I Need Attachments?

Some of us need more work than others. If this is the case for you, your orthodontist will recommend attachments for your treatment. These small buttons are clear and attached to your teeth with dental adhesive. They work by giving the aligners a gripping point. That’s how attachments improve the effectiveness of dermal aligners.

How do I get the Most out of my Clear Aligners?

For best results, you must wear your Invisalign clear aligners for at least 20 hours a day.

How Long Will my Treatment Last?

The average treatment time for aligners is 1 year to 18 months. But every mouth is different. Your specific length of treatment depends on how much work the aligners must do.

If your teeth only need small changes, your treatment time might be less than a year. But it’s important to note, failure to take heed of your orthodontist’s suggestions might extend your treatment time.

Additional Considerations

You must brush your teeth thoroughly after every meal. If you don’t, food particles and plaque will get trapped in your aligners. When this happens, it causes bad breath and leads to cavities.

You might need a refinement period for the optimal operation of your clear aligners. When your teeth don’t move expectedly, your orthodontist will give you refinement aligners to encourage your teeth into position.

Your aligners are made from medical-grade plastic. While stronger than normal plastics, hot drinks can distort them. Dark drinks can stain them as well.

Clear aligners are a great option for those who want a beautiful smile but don’t want a mouth full of metal. They’re proven effective. As long as you use them per your orthodontist’s recommendations, your results are clear.