Invisalign is an amazing and innovative form of teeth-straightening that has transformed the world of orthodontics. It was designed to imitate the results you get from traditional metal braces but by the means of clear aligners instead of metal, wires, glue, and brackets.
Invisalign is an amazing alternative for adults or teens who want to achieve a straighter smile but in a more discrete fashion than traditional braces. Your orthodontist will tell you that while there are a ton of benefits, Invisalign may not be right for you or your child. Keep reading to learn more.
Your Clear Aligners Must Be Worn [Pretty Much] 24/7
While you have the freedom to remove your aligners whenever you like, not wearing them as much as possible can result in delayed results (and spending more money down the line). The only time you should take your clear aligners out is to eat and drink (any beverage besides water); & this brings us to our next point…
You Cannot Eat or Drink Anything [but water] With Your Aligners In
Foods and beverages can damage your aligners. To ensure your clear aligners maintain their durability, shape, and effectiveness, you need to take them out any time you eat or drink. You can, however, leave them in when drinking water.
You Have to Keep Track of Them
It’s easier said than done. If you or your teen cannot handle the task of keeping track of your aligners, it’s going to cost you money, time, and more visits to your orthodontics in Boerne.
With the freedom to take your aligners in and out, it can be pretty easy to lose track of them. Always keep your cases around to place the aligners in safely when they need to be taken out of your mouth. You should never even briefly set them down on a counter or table, as you will be surprised how easy it is to forget and lose them and how difficult it may be to find them again.
Invisalign Isn’t Always the Best for Children or Teenagers
While it varies from person to person, many children and teens are notorious for misplacing things. It is for this reason that often parents opt out of Invisalign for their kids. Depending on your child’s habits, traditional metal braces may be a better option. Talk to your child and a trusted orthodontist in Boerne to figure out what will be best for them.
You Must Brush Your Teeth Even More Often
You should be brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day already, but with aligners, you need to brush your teeth after every meal. If you put your aligners back in with food particles stuck in your teeth it can put you at a higher risk for cavities and tooth decay as well as affect how your aligners sit on your teeth.
You Must Keep Your Clear Aligners Clean
On top of brushing your teeth, you need to make sure you keep your clear aligners clean. It is best to soak them in a prescribed solution and brush them very gently with your toothbrush each morning and night before placing them back on.
Just as Traditional Braces, With Invisalign, You May Feel Slight Discomfort with Each Aligner at First
With traditional braces, when they are first placed on and every time they are tightened, you will likely feel slight discomfort. Invisalign will cause a similar discomfort as it is doing the same job, straightening your teeth. It is normal that with each new aligner you will feel tightness and a bit of discomfort while your teeth adjust.
You Must Keep Up with Your Appointments
It is extremely important that you attend your regularly scheduled appointments with your orthodontist in Boerne. Staying on top of your aligner replacements will ensure your journey to a straight smile stays on track.
What Now?
If you have more questions about Invisalign in Boerne. Here at Boerne Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry we can help. Our highly rated team of experts will help you find the best orthodontic treatment for your family. Give us a call today!