Almost everyone wants to have a beautiful, perfectly aligned smile. However, when you get older, you aren’t so fond about having to walk around with metal brackets and wires on your teeth. Fortunately, there is another option out there. Invisalign clear aligners are becoming more popular each year because of all the benefits they have over traditional metal braces. If you’re thinking about getting Invisalign in Hamden, you should be well-informed, so you know what to expect. Here are the answers to some commonly asked Invisalign questions that patients have.
Is Invisalign Painful?
Just like any other teeth straightening technique out there, you are bound to feel some discomfort. This is because your teeth are slowly moving to positions that they aren’t used to being in. When you first put in new Invisalign aligners, you are going to feel some soreness. This is perfectly normal. Fortunately, this will go away after a day or two. Invisalign uses less pressure to move your teeth than traditional braces, so they tend to cause less discomfort.
How Often Do You Need to Wear Your Trays?
In order to get the best possible results, you should be wearing your Invisalign aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day. When you take out the trays, your teeth are tempted to move back to their original locations, which will ultimately prolong your treatment. For the process to go as smoothly as possible you should only take them out when you are eating a meal or cleaning your teeth.
How Long Does the Treatment Take?
The time that your treatment takes will be determined by your individual smile. There are hundreds of factors that go into this. However, it is reported that the average treatment lasts about 12 months. Generally, the more severe your alignment issues, the longer that your treatment will take.
Is Invisalign Noticeable?
When compared to traditional braces, Invisalign is almost completely undetectable. When you are wearing your aligners, your teeth may look slightly more shiny, but this can usually only be seen if someone within a certain distance is paying close attention to your smile. In most cases, no one will be able to tell that you are wearing them.
How Are Invisalign Aligners Cleaned?
Invisalign trays can be adequately cleaned with a thorough brushing using a toothbrush and water. Soapy water can be used for a better clean. Because the trays are changed approximately every two weeks, you don’t need to worry about too much buildup.
Invisalign is a great way for you to straighten your teeth. By being well informed and following the instructions of your dentist, you will have the smile of your dreams in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Ronald J. D’Andrea earned his DMD from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and served as President of the New Haven Dental Association from 2001 to 2002. Currently, he is a member of the American Dental Association, Connecticut State Dental Association, and the American Academy of Clear Aligners. For more information on Invisalign or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (203) 288-0951.
