There are several dental solutions that have been made available for people who aim to have their crooked or misaligned teeth fixed. While traditional, metal braces are the usual measure to address this dental issue, medical specialists have discovered an effective orthodontic treatment option called invisalign aligners. This has been proven to be a great alternative to braces, though still serving the same purpose of fixing misaligned teeth. The primary difference between these two would be that invisalign aligners use clear plastic retainers instead of metal brackets. Thus, this will look like the patient is not wearing braces at all. And therefore, with this dental treatment, you get the benefit of straightening out your teeth unconsciously.
Crooked, or out-of-place teeth could be a main cause of concern, given that it eliminates the confidence one has. This dental issue can even lead to other health problems down the road, if not addressed immediately. Traditionally, the easiest solution for this would be the installation of metal braces. However, the main problem with wearing this would be people might get more self-conscious. Since they are made from metal wiring, it can certainly stand out a lot.
But then, with the emergence of invisalign aligners, they serve as a great alternative for people who prefer a subtle solution for this specific dental condition. It is even positioned as a cheaper, faster alternative to other comprehensive orthodontic treatments, which can be considered as a solution for minor tooth movement with limited clinical applicability, according to a study about clear aligners in orthodontic treatment. It makes one’s teeth straight and perfectly aligned, without causing any uneasiness. People can actually become worried just thinking about enduring the discomfort and unattractive appearance of traditional braces. Therefore, if you are concerned about the treatment of your crooked or misaligned teeth, invisalign aligners can help.
And before actually having to go for this dental solution, you have to know and understand certain things. From having to wear invisalign aligners for at least 22 hours a day, to removing them before eating, how fast and efficient this solution is, and how it can provide you discomfort especially if you have tried wearing them for the first time. These are especially important to learn so you know what to expect throughout the whole procedure.
Wear Invisalign Throughout the Day
Given that invisalign aligners are not permanently attached to your teeth, you must know that you should still wear these throughout the day. Expect that your dentist will require you to wear them for at least 22 hours a day, which is the recommended daily wear time. The more and the longer you wear them, the more effective they will certainly be. So being diligent in wearing them is definitely a must.
The first time you put your invisalign aligners on, dentists will recommend you to keep it on almost all day for the first 48 hours. This is when they put in a lot of work, helping you in becoming used to feeling them. They will recommend that you only remove them when you need to brush your teeth, eat, or drink. Once that first two-day period is over, you must still aim to wear them as much as possible. They may even require you to wear them at night while sleeping. Not just because it will be better for your teeth. But also because you will start noticing them less and less, letting you feel like you are wearing nothing on your teeth — which means no discomfort in the long run.
Remove Invisalign Aligners Before Eating
Dentists suggest removing your invisalign aligners before eating or drinking, because doing so might damage the aligner itself. Even the little afternoon snack will require you to remove your aligners. After eating, you have to brush your teeth and floss before putting them back on your teeth.
Dentists also emphasize the significance of drinking plenty of water throughout this treatment procedure. Patients wearing invisalign aligners are also not advised to consume hot beverages like coffee and tea, as the heat might distort their shape. And given that water is already the healthiest liquid for your teeth, it is even more important when you wear aligners all day. Your mouth immediately becomes dry, which might make you feel uncomfortable at first. But then, drinking regularly will make straightening your smile with aligners much easier.
Invisalign is Fast and Efficient
Patients wearing invisalign aligners do not actually take longer to see the results. They are able to notice more visible results within just 2 to 3 months, unlike with traditional metal braces that often take up to several months, or even years. But then, the length still varies for each person, depending on the state of their teeth, and how much work needs to be done. If your teeth are just slightly misaligned, or if there are just one or two teeth that are out of place, then it might last for less than a few months. It can be longer like the traditional braces as well, specifically if your teeth are not really in great shape.
Wearing Invisalign for the First Time May Cause Discomfort
Similar to traditional braces, wearing invisalign aligners for the first time may be uncomfortable. It might even take a week or two to get used to moving your teeth with invisible retainers. It may look modern, sleek, and smooth, especially when compared to metal braces, but they are still an orthodontic treatment. This means that it is natural to feel some degree of discomfort while going through this procedure. While many patients do not feel any discomfort, some actually do — varying by patient, teeth, and pain threshold.
Key Takeaway
Opting for invisalign aligners as your orthodontic solution for fixing misaligned teeth is proven to be effective; being a fast and efficient procedure compared to the traditional metal braces. It offers a better way to align your teeth without too much pain and invasive measures, and visible braces. And before getting these aligners, you must be aware of the things mentioned above and follow the guidelines to ensure that the treatment goes successfully, and your invisalign aligners will last longer, providing optimal solution for your teeth.
