In recent years, Invisalign has become the gold standard of orthodontic care. This revolutionary solution offers a discreet and convenient alternative to traditional braces by adjusting teeth through a series of clear aligners.
Obtaining a healthier, more balanced smile is within your reach at Dental Care of Lombard. If you want to discuss clear aligner therapy with Dr. Julie Glud, contact our Lombard, IL, dental office at (630) 629-5700.
As dental professionals, we are often met with a slew of questions regarding Invisalign treatment. So, as more people seek information about this innovative treatment, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) to guide you through the world of Invisalign.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a new-age orthodontic treatment. The system relies upon a series of virtually invisible, custom-made aligners to gradually straighten teeth.
These aligners are easy to insert and remove, making them a popular choice for those seeking a patient-friendly alternative to traditional braces.
How do clear aligners work?
Invisalign works by making small yet meaningful adjustments to each set of aligners in the patient’s treatment plan. So, by replacing aligners every one to two weeks, patients can effectively and gently move teeth into optimal positions over time.
Is Invisalign only for adults?
Initially, Invisalign gained mainstream appeal among the adult population. However, it has gained widespread acceptance for treating mild to moderate dental misalignments in children, tweens, and teenagers as well.
In fact, many dental associations (like the American Association of Orthodontists) recommend orthodontic remediation as early as seven years of age. While this may seem like an early age to seek orthodontia, it is actually an ideal time to explore these treatments, as children’s teeth and jawbones are more pliable. This makes treatment easier, more comfortable, and, in many cases, much faster.
Are the results permanent?
Yes, Invisalign results are permanent. But there’s a catch.
In order to retain Invisalign results, patients must follow their post-treatment care instructions provided by their dentist or orthodontist. These instructions may include wearing retainers to maintain the alignment of teeth.
Most dental professionals recommend wearing a retainer almost constantly for the first six months to a year after clear aligner therapy. After this period, many patients transition to wearing their retainers solely at night. Just remember: Retainer wear ensures lifelong results.
How long does clear aligner therapy take?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Indeed, the duration of treatment can change based on many factors, including:
- The severity of the case
- The patient’s compliance with their treatment plan
- The patient’s oral health during treatment
Nonetheless, the average patient can expect optimal results within 12 to 18 months. Our Lombard dentist can provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific needs.
How often should I wear my aligners?
Invisalign wearers should wear their custom-made trays for at least 20 to 22 hours per day. Patients should only remove them for brushing, flossing, eating, and drinking.
Can I eat and drink with Invisalign?
While patients can remove aligners to eat and drink, it is recommended to avoid ingesting anything other than water while wearing them. This helps prevent staining and maintains the integrity of the aligners.
How do I clean my aligners?
Luckily, keeping clear aligners clean is easy. Simply cleanse them with lukewarm water and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub away any debris. Always avoid using hot water on the trays, as it can permanently warp them.
Will Invisalign affect my speech?
Some people may experience speech difficulties when first wearing clear aligners, often resulting in a slight lisp. However, this effect is usually short-lived, diminishing significantly as the wearer gets adjusted to their custom trays.
Want to reduce this effect? Practice speaking and reading aloud to adjust more quickly.
Is clear aligner therapy painful?
Unlike traditional braces, many patients consider Invisalign to be a relatively comfortable treatment. However, patients who experience discomfort or pressure when switching to a new set of aligners may handle it with the help of over-the-counter pain medications (like ibuprofen).
Just keep in mind: Temporary discomfort during treatment is a sign of progress toward a straighter, healthier smile.
Can Invisalign fix all orthodontic issues?
While Invisalign is effective for a wide range of orthodontic issues, it may not be ideal for patients with significant dental or jaw misalignments. In general, clear aligner therapy is ideal for mild to moderate cases of:
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Crossbites
Severe cases may still require traditional braces or other specialized treatments.
How much does Invisalign cost?
Just like the duration of treatment, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the cost of clear aligner therapy. The price can vary due to several things, including:
- How long it takes to correct misalignments
- The dental provider’s expertise
- The provider’s geographical location
On average, however, this kind of treatment is comparable to traditional braces, at around $3,000 to $5,000.
Can I switch to Invisalign if I already have braces?
In some cases, patients can transition from traditional braces to Invisalign. However, this decision is ultimately up to the dentist or orthodontist, as they can best assess whether the switch is feasible based on your individual case.
Can I chew gum with Invisalign?
Chewing gum while wearing Invisalign is a no-no, as it can damage the aligners and affect the treatment progress. It’s best to remove the aligners before enjoying any foods, including chewing gum.
Can I smoke while wearing clear aligners?
Dental professionals strongly discourage smoking while wearing clear aligners, as it can stain the aligners. Additionally, smoking can contribute to widespread oral and systemic health issues, so it’s advisable to limit or quit smoking during your orthodontic treatment.
Can I whiten my teeth while using Invisalign?
In general, you can whiten your teeth while using clear aligners. However, we recommend consulting with Dr. Glud before using any whitening products to ensure compatibility with the aligners.
What happens if I lose or break an aligner?
If you lose or break an aligner, contact our dentist in Lombard immediately. Depending on your treatment progress, our team may advise you to move on to the next set of aligners or make adjustments to prevent any setbacks.
Explore Clear Aligner Therapy with Dr. Julie Glud
By addressing these frequently asked questions, we hope to empower individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their orthodontic care. If you’re considering Invisalign, consult the team at Dental Care of Lombard today. You can reach our dentist in Lombard, IL, online or at (630) 629-5700.
