With Invisalign, each new set of clear aligners will subtly shift your teeth into their projected positions. Every one to three weeks you will switch to a different tray that will move your teeth even more.
While traditional braces can be uncomfortable and cause damage to your mouth, Invisalign is much more comfortable. Here are a few things you should consider when choosing an Invisalign provider.
1. Comfort
Invisalign is more comfortable to wear than traditional braces. The smooth plastic trays won’t irritate sensitive areas of the mouth like the cheeks and tongue. There may be a temporary period of discomfort after each tray change but this should fade quickly. Some patients may also experience enhanced tooth sensitivity but this should subside after a short while too.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners can be removed for cleaning. This means that you can easily brush and floss your teeth to maintain optimal hygiene. This is particularly important when eating, drinking and smoking.
Invisalign also has an option that makes the treatment more comfortable called SmartTrack. This is a specialized material that takes four years to develop and provides a unique fit for your aligner. It works similar to the SmartForce Attachments that are included with standard braces to add an extra level of comfort by giving the aligner something to push against. This is an optional add-on that your Maple Dental Health dentist can recommend if you are having trouble with discomfort.
2. Attractiveness
As you can see, Invisalign is far more subtle than traditional braces. In fact, they are almost invisible to those who don’t know the wearer. That is one of the main reasons that people choose Invisalign over other aligners. They want a more aesthetic smile.
In addition, a straighter smile boosts self-esteem and helps improve your confidence. Whether you are in an interview or a first date, your appearance matters. A crooked smile is unprofessional and can make people doubt your honesty and reliability. However, a confident, beautiful smile will convey that you are competent.
Invisalign works by using digital x-rays, impressions and photographs to create a 3D model of your teeth. Then, it systematically adjusts your teeth with a computerised algorithm that is designed to achieve the results you desire. This is why Invisalign has such a high success rate. Plus, with the Invisalign ClinCheck software, dentists can show you a visual simulation of how your teeth will move during treatment. This is an extremely useful and reassuring feature that not all aligners offer.
3. No Food Restrictions
You don’t have to worry about food restrictions when you are wearing Invisalign. You can eat everything that you normally would – as long as you remove the aligners before eating. This will help you avoid potential discomfort and keep your trays looking fresh.
Sticky foods like gum should be avoided while wearing Invisalign, as the residue can cause a buildup of bacteria in your mouth and on your trays. This can slow the process of moving your teeth and can prolong your treatment time.
It is also important to be mindful about snacking while you are wearing Invisalign. You should limit snacks to no more than two a day. This will ensure that the aligners are worn for the proper amount of time each day.
Snacks should be primarily lean protein sources, such as grilled chicken, fish or tofu, as well as cooked grains like quinoa and rice. These are softer and require less chewing, making them more compatible with the alignment of your teeth. These foods will also provide essential nutrients to your body.
4. Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning your aligners is a key part of keeping them clean. Having dirty aligners increases the likelihood of bacteria build-up, which can cause gum tissue irritation and even tooth decay. A simple rinsing in lukewarm water can help to keep your aligners free of food debris and remove bacteria. You can also use a cleaner, which comes in powder or tablet form. These products are effective against plaque and bacteria and are easily available at pharmacies. Some are also available in wipes, although these may be less effective.
A solution of equal parts distilled white vinegar and lukewarm water can also be used to clean your aligners. Simply soak them in the solution for 15 minutes, brush gently with a soft toothbrush, and rinse thoroughly. Avoid using abrasive materials or hot water to clean your aligners, as these can scratch them and create small crevices where bacteria can grow. Regular cleaning will ensure that your aligners stay fresh and clean throughout the treatment process. This can make them much more comfortable to wear and may result in quicker results.
5. Cost
The cost of Invisalign is a significant factor for many patients. Fortunately, there are ways to make the process more affordable.
One is to talk to multiple doctors about their prices and compare. It’s common for different Invisalign providers to charge a slightly different amount for the same treatment, so this is an important step.
Another option is to find out if your insurance covers part of the cost. Most dental plans include a lump sum amount for orthodontics, which can be applied to Invisalign in most cases.
Finally, many orthodontists offer monthly payment plans that can break up the total cost of Invisalign into manageable monthly payments. These can be a great way to help patients avoid paying the full cost up front and may also be interest-free. This is a very popular option, especially among younger patients.