Clear aligners are an orthodontic treatment that gradually shifts your teeth into a more optimal position. Many patients prefer them over traditional metal braces. If you are considering Invisalign, it is important to have all your questions answered beforehand. This guide on Invisalign frequently asked questions will help you make an informed decision.

Can I get Invisalign if I’m not a good candidate?

The short answer is no, but it’s important to note that Invisalign is not a magic bullet for every person who has teeth misalignment. Crooked teeth and an improper bite do more than just make for an unsightly smile; they can also cause a variety of dental health complications.

A qualified orthodontist will perform a thorough examination of your teeth and bite to determine if Invisalign is the best option for you. Generally speaking, patients with minor or moderate teeth misalignment are ideal candidates for Invisalign.

It’s important to note that Invisalign requires discipline. Patients who remove their aligners too frequently or for an excessive amount of time will not have the most successful treatment experience. Additionally, severe bruxism and an underdeveloped palate aren’t conducive to Invisalign, as alternative treatments are usually preferred in these cases.

How long will my treatment take?

Your dentist will create a digital blueprint of your teeth, which will be used to fabricate a series of clear aligners. You will wear each set for about two weeks, switching to the next one in the sequence as your teeth shift gradually into proper alignment.

Depending on how severe your crowding is, treatment can last anywhere from 12 to 18 months. Milder cases may be completed in a year or less, and teens can often finish up in just over a year.

To make sure your treatment stays on track, you will need to visit your dentist for routine checkups every 4-6 weeks. During these visits, your dentist will inspect your progress and ensure that the trays are doing what they’re supposed to. They’ll also replace your old trays with new ones if necessary to keep the process moving forward. The number of trays you’ll need will vary, with milder cases requiring as few as 14 trays and more serious cases requiring upwards of 26 trays.

Will I have to wear a retainer after my treatment?

When your Invisalign treatment is complete, it’s important to wear your retainer as recommended. This will help ensure your teeth stay straight and prevent them from shifting back to their original positions.

During the Invisalign process, a series of clear aligners are customized to fit snugly over your teeth and gradually shift them into a better alignment over time. These trays are switched out for new ones every two weeks, helping your teeth move in predictable intervals and reach their final positions within a relatively short period of time.

The length of your Invisalign treatment will depend on several factors, including the severity of your alignment issues and how well you follow your doctor’s instructions. If you aren’t responsible with wearing your trays for the recommended 22 hours each day and replacing them with a new one every week, your treatment will take longer than it should.

It’s also important to keep in mind that your teeth will still shift on their own, even if you’re wearing your retainer. This gradual movement is normal and helps prevent a sunken look in your smile as you age.

Will Invisalign hurt?

As with any orthodontic treatment, there is a chance you will experience some pain during the first week or two of wearing Invisalign. However, it is important to note that this pain is typically very mild and temporary.

This discomfort is caused by the pressure exerted on your teeth and gums by the aligners. This pressure is necessary in order to move your teeth into their correct positions. During this time, you should be careful not to chew hard foods or ice, as this can make the pain more intense.

Another way to help alleviate the pain caused by Invisalign is to apply an ice pack to the area of your mouth that is in pain. This should be done for no more than ten minutes at a time and should be wrapped in a towel to avoid placing the ice directly against your skin. Additionally, you can also try sucking on ice cubes to numb the area in pain.