Thinking about getting Invisalign? If you’re looking into this popular cosmetic dentistry treatment, you probably have high hopes for a straighter smile. And while clear aligners can deliver spectacular results, there are some things you should know before starting your journey. Many people experience challenges they didn’t expect – but don’t worry, we’re here to spill all the details!
Although it takes time, money, and commitment, Invisalign is absolutely worth exploring. Call (630) 629-5700 to discuss your candidacy and learn more about this remarkable treatment with Dr. Julie Glud at Dental Care of Lombard, IL!
While Invisalign is worth every minor inconvenience and temporary hassle, there are still some things you should know before getting started. From discomfort to cleaning routines, we’ll cover the most common problems people face with clear aligners. Let’s dive in and make sure you’re fully prepared for your smile transformation!
1. Soreness and Discomfort: It’s Part of the Process
One of the first things people notice when they start wearing Invisalign aligners is soreness. Be prepared for soreness often because aligners must be replaced every two weeks to work toward a straighter smile.
When you switch to a new set, your teeth will feel pressure as they move into place. This is a good sign because it means your treatment is working! However, that doesn’t make it any less uncomfortable.
The best way to manage discomfort is by taking drugstore pain relievers and sticking to soft foods when your teeth feel extra tender. Most of the discomfort fades after a few days, but it can be a surprise for first-time wearers!
2. You Have to Clean Your Trays (A Lot!)
Keeping your aligners clean is super important because food and bacteria can easily get trapped, creating problems like cavities and stains.
So, you’ll need to brush and floss your teeth after every single meal or snack before putting your trays back in.
To keep your Invisalign trays fresh, rinse them with lukewarm water and use a gentle cleaning solution, like a mild soap or Invisalign cleaning crystals.
3. Temporary Lisp? It Happens!
Some people develop a slight lisp when they first start wearing Invisalign. This happens because the tongue is adjusting to the new trays. It’s usually temporary, and most people adjust within a few days.
If your speech feels off, try reading aloud or practicing conversations at home. The more you talk, the faster your tongue will get used to the aligners, and your speech will return to normal.
4. You Have to Commit to Wearing Them
Invisalign only works as it should if you commit to wearing the trays for 20 to 22 hours each day. If you take them out too often, your teeth won’t move as planned, and your treatment could take longer than expected.
That means you can’t just take them out whenever you feel like it. You need to wear them while sleeping and for most of your waking hours. If you’re not consistent, you could end up needing extra trays, which means a longer treatment timeline!
5. Snacking and Coffee Breaks Get Tricky
Since you have to remove your aligners every time you eat or drink anything besides water, your usual eating habits may need an adjustment.
Love sipping coffee throughout the day? You’ll either need to drink it quickly while your trays are out or stick to drinking it only at mealtimes. The same goes for snacking – every bite means brushing your teeth before putting your trays back in. Many people find that they snack less, which can sometimes lead to unexpected weight loss.
6. Expect More Saliva Than Usual
Some people notice they produce more saliva when they first start wearing aligners. This is because your mouth senses a foreign object and reacts by increasing saliva production. While this may be annoying at first, your mouth will adjust after a few days.
7. Staining Can Happen Quickly
If you’re not careful, your aligners can stain. Drinking a cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of wine while wearing them is a big no-no. Even if you brush your teeth afterward, certain foods and drinks can leave behind stains.
To keep your aligners clear, rinse your mouth and brush before putting them back in. If staining does happen, try soaking them in a cleaning solution to restore their transparency.
8. Attachments Make Them More Noticeable
Many people assume clear aligners are completely invisible. While they are much less noticeable than braces, some patients need attachments – small, tooth-colored bumps placed on the teeth to help the aligners work more effectively.
Attachments can make the trays slightly more noticeable, especially if they’re placed on your front teeth. However, they play an important role in getting the best results, so it’s worth the trade-off!
9. Removing Trays Can Be Tricky
Taking out your aligners isn’t always easy, especially at the beginning. Some people struggle to remove them, particularly if they have attachments.
A handy trick is to use a removal tool designed for aligners or to start by loosening them from the back molars before working your way forward. It takes practice, but you’ll get the hang of it!
10. Your Treatment Might Take Longer Than Expected
While Invisalign treatment is often quicker than traditional braces, some people need extra aligners at the end of their initial plan. These are called refinements, and they help perfect your results.
If your teeth don’t move exactly as predicted, our Lombard, IL, dentist might order a few extra trays. While this can be frustrating, remember that the goal is a perfectly aligned smile!
11. Bad Breath? It Can Happen
Wearing aligners for long hours can lead to dry mouth, which may cause bad breath if you don’t maintain good oral hygiene.
To prevent this, drink plenty of water throughout the day and make sure you’re brushing and flossing regularly. Using a non-alcoholic mouthwash can also help keep your breath fresh.
12. The Results Are Totally Worth It!
Yes, clear aligners come with some challenges, but the end result is a straight, beautiful smile. Most people say the minor inconveniences are well worth it in the long run!
Create Your Perfect Smile with Invisalign in Lombard, IL
If you’re thinking about Invisalign, now you know what to expect! With good habits and a little patience, you’ll be on your way to achieving the smile you’ve always wanted. Have questions about treatment? Talk to our dentist in Lombard, IL, to see if clear aligners are the right choice for you!
Reach Dental Care of Lombard at (630) 629-5700, or click here to request an Invisalign consultation with Dr. Julie Glud.
