The prospect of a straighter smile with Invisalign is an exciting one, as the treatment offers a discreet and flexible solution for orthodontics. However, before you take the leap into your treatment, it’s important to be well-informed. There are some aspects of Invisalign that catch patients off guard after they commit.
Continue reading to learn some of the more obscure facts about Invisalign treatment and how it may affect your experience.
1. You May Need to Change Your Diet
Before starting Invisalign, be prepared for potential adjustments to your diet. While the aligners are removable, your dentist will probably tell you to limit certain foods and beverages. When you drink dark-colored drinks and eat food in your aligners, you may affect their clarity. This sabotages your discreet treatment.
2. The Treatment May Require Tooth Shaving
In some cases, Invisalign treatment may involve minimal enamel shaving to create space for tooth movement. Don’t worry, this process is part of the personalized treatment plan designed to achieve the desired alignment.
3. Most People See Results Within a Year
Invisalign offers a relatively quick transformation. Many patients experience visible results within a year of consistent wear. However, the exact duration may vary based on individual treatment plans and your dental hygiene habits.
4. You May Need Attachments
Attachments are small tooth-colored “bumps” that may be needed to help your aligners perform more dramatic tooth movements. So, if your dentist starts to attach these to your teeth, just know that it’s perfectly normal.
5. There May be Some Discomfort
As with any orthodontic treatment, you may experience mild discomfort or pressure, particularly when transitioning to a new set of aligners. This is a normal part of the adjustment process. If it becomes hard to manage, consider taking over-the-counter pain medication or using a cold compress to ease the pain.
6. You Might Have Trouble Speaking at First
Initially, you may find it challenging to speak clearly with the aligners. As your tongue adapts to the presence of the aligners, you may lisp or feel an excess of saliva. This is temporary and part of the adjustment period. With time, your speech will naturally adapt and return to normal.
Choosing Invisalign is the clear path to a straighter smile. By preparing for any unexpected bumps in the road, you set yourself up for a smooth and confident journey. If you need more guidance, talk to your dentist. They’ll have more expert advice to keep your smile transformation on track.
About the Author
Dr. Kamlesh Makwana is a skilled and compassionate dentist who loves helping his patients achieve their best smiles. He earned his dental doctorate from Marquette University and set to work improving his skills from then on. Today he has had many hours of continuing education learning the latest dental techniques and technologies, including Invisalign. If you want quality treatment from trusted hands, you’ve come to the right place. Call (636) 928-9693 to schedule an Invisalign consultation at Klassik Smiles or visit the website to browse their other services.
