Invisalign is a unique treatment option as it uses no wires or bands to move teeth, just smooth, clear trays. Even with its comfortable, but effective design, there are a few things to consider during the few couple of weeks of Invisalign treatment:
- Speaking with Invisalign aligners
- Discomfort
- Properly inserting and removing Invisalign
- Cleaning your aligners
Discomfort at the Beginning of Treatment
Even with the smooth design of the trays, pressure is required to shift teeth into their desired positions, so there is some discomfort when you get a new set of trays during treatment, especially during the first set of aligners; however, just a little over the counter painkiller will help manage the discomfort which typically only lasts the first week.
Speaking with Invisalign Aligners
There will be a small adjustment period as you become comfortable speaking with the Invisalign aligners in your mouth. In order for treatment to be effective, the aligners must be worn for 20-22 hours per day, so while there’s a learning curve at the beginning, in no time you won’t notice a thing. Most people notice a slight lisp or that some words are more difficult to say, but this is normal and just takes a little practice to get used to.
Properly Inserting and Removing Invisalign
Something patients do not expect is that there is a correct technique to insert and remove Invisalign aligners. It only takes a little time before you do it without thinking, but make sure you follow the right steps to get into these habits:
How to Insert Invisalign Trays
- Match the correct aligners for your upper and lower teeth
- Push the tray over the front part of your teeth
- Apply equal pressure, using your fingertips, to the tops of your left and right back molars until aligners snap into place (do not bite aligners into place)
How to Remove Invisalign Trays
- Start on one side of your mouth using your fingertip on the inside of your back molar
- Slowly pull the aligner from your molar
- Repeat process on the other side of your mouth
- Gently remove from your teeth
- Push the tray over the front part of your teeth
Cleaning Your Aligners
Your Invisalign aligners are in contact with your teeth 20-22 hours a day, so ensuring they are clean is an important part of your oral health. Treat your aligners the same way you treat your teeth, so every time you brush your teeth, gently brush your aligners with your toothbrush.
Contact Oubre Orthodontics
If you are interested in Invisalign in the Lafayette area, contact our office with any questions or to schedule a consultation!