Invisalign – Hamden, CT

Are Invisalign aligners uncomfortable to wear?

For traditional braces, patients have to endure routine uncomfortable visits with their orthodontist to get their wires tightened. Invisalign treatment doesn’t require this at all. In fact, each visit will involve a simple progress check and collection of your new set of aligners. While the entire treatment is virtually pain-free, it is important to note that you may experience some soreness as you switch to your new set of trays. The best way to counteract this is to make the change at night, so you sleep through a majority of the adjustment period.

How do you keep Invisalign aligners clean?

Keeping Invisalign aligners clean is relatively easy, it’s just important to stay on top of your routine so no bacteria, food particles, and plaque get wedged between your trays and teeth. Be sure to:

• Take your aligners out before you eat or drink anything besides water.
• Rinse your aligners after each meal or snack.
• Clean your aligners using a denture or soft-bristled brush and clear antibacterial soap.
• Soak your aligners for 10 to 15 minutes in a 50/50 mixture of water and hydrogen peroxide or vinegar.
• Don’t use hot water while cleaning your aligners. It will cause them to warp.

How do I know if I need braces or if I can get Invisalign treatment?

Some orthodontic cases may require traditional metal braces to treat. However, there’s no way to know for sure until you visit your dentist for a consultation. Invisalign treatment can fix a majority of cases that involve misalignment, crowding, gaps, and minor bite problems. When you come in for your first appointment, we’ll let you know if they’re the best treatment choice for your unique situation.

Do I need to wear a retainer after my Invisalign treatment?

Just like with traditional braces, most patients need to wear retainers after they complete their Invisalign treatment. When you get closer to using your last set of aligners, your dentist will speak with you about how long you’ll need to wear your retainers for and whether you’re a good candidate for a permanent retainer. Because your teeth have a sort of muscle memory, they’ll move back into their original places if they’re not held in position with a retainer. So, if you want to maintain your results after all of your hard work, be sure to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions.

Is Invisalign covered by my dental insurance?

Most dental insurance plans consider Invisalign treatment a cosmetic service, which is why many don’t cover the cost of it. However, it’s a good idea to contact your provider directly and ask. Our team at D'Andrea and Pantera, DMD, PC can help you find out as well. If your insurance doesn’t, we also offer additional financing plans through CareCredit that have little to no interest attached.

Do I Need to Change My Diet with Invisalign?

One of the many reasons patients are drawn to Invisalign is because there aren’t any dietary restrictions. In other words, you don’t need to completely cut out any foods from your diet like you do with traditional braces. The only thing that we ask is that you exercise caution with sticky, crunchy, and hard foods that could cause an attachment to come loose. It’s also a good idea to limit your intake of soda, candy, and other sugary treats since they can result in dental damage, like tooth decay or gum disease.

Can I Still Drink Coffee with Invisalign?

You can’t drink coffee with your aligners in, but you can drink coffee with your aligners out! The reason you need to remove them first is because, if you don’t, your once-clear trays will start to yellow. If your coffee is hot, then there’s also the risk of them warping from the high temperature, which can negatively impact your teeth-straightening journey in other ways. Simply put, you’re more than welcome to enjoy this caffeinated beverage throughout your orthodontic treatment as long as you follow the guidelines provided.

Why Do I Need to Wear My Aligners for 20+ Hours a Day?

Since the aligners are removable, many patients assume that they can take them off anytime they want. That’s not the case. Although you can (and should) take them out before brushing your teeth or eating a meal, you should keep them in the vast majority of the day (between 20 and 22 hours). This is crucial because your teeth won’t move if you aren’t wearing your aligners enough.

Tip: If you aren’t sure if you’re meeting the 20-22 hour-a-day wear-time, try using the stopwatch on your phone!

What Happens at the Invisalign Check-In Appointments?

Every six weeks or so, you’ll come to our office for a check-in visit. In addition to asking you a few questions to see how your experience with braces is going so far, we’ll also take new scans of your teeth. This allows us to see how your teeth are moving and compare that to your treatment plan. If everything looks good, then we’ll give you your next batch of aligners and send you on your way. If something is wrong, like one of your teeth isn’t moving as anticipated, then we will need to figure out how to get you back on-track with your treatment plan.

Why Are My Invisalign Aligners Turning Yellow?

Typically, clear aligners turn yellow because of bad habits, like keeping them on while drinking iced coffee or not cleaning them thoroughly after each meal. So, if yours are starting to discolor, this is a good place to start! In addition to taking them out before eating or drinking anything other than water, commit to a dental care regimen that includes cleaning your aligners each morning and evening.