While straightening teeth is always an interesting prospect, Invisalign aligners in particular tend to get people excited. Not only do these thin trays allow you to straighten your smile, but they allow you to look incredible while they do!
However, Invisalign aligners are a relative newcomer to the world of dentistry, which means that people may have more uncertainty than usual about how the system works. Thankfully, here are answers to some of the most common questions people have about Invisalign aligners.
Q: How Long Do I Have to Wear My Aligners?
A: One of people’s favorite things about Invisalign aligners is the fact that they’re removable, affording them greater versatility in what they can eat and how they can clean their trays.
However, it’s important to remember that your trays only work for you when you’re wearing them, so you should try and keep them on as much as possible. You should endeavor to wear them for 20-22 hours a day, taking them off only to clean them.
Q: Does Invisalign Treatment Hurt?
A: Invisalign aligners work by applying constant pressure on the teeth. At first this is often uncomfortable, especially during the first week or so of the treatment. That said, any discomfort that you feel should fade pretty easily with time as your teeth get more used to moving.
After that, you should only feel minor discomfort for a few hours when you first put on a new set of trays. This should be mild, and easily remedied with a little ibuprofen.
Q: Will Invisalign Affect How I Talk?
A: Speaking properly is a complicated interplay between the teeth, lips, and tongue. You might not think about it consciously, but there’s a lot that goes into just talking.
When you first put on your aligners, that’ll change the way that your teeth come together and how it feels when your tongue touches them. That can cause a little bit of a lisp at first.
If you find yourself struggling to speak with your aligners in, all it takes is a little bit of practice. Try reading aloud, carefully practicing those words that are most difficult for you. You’ll be looking and sounding great before you know it!
About the Author
Dr. Monil Mehta believes that the best dentistry starts with forming strong personal connections with his patients. Not only does that help him better understand their specific goals, it also makes it all the more gratifying to see them smile when the work is done. Dr. Mehta received his degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, and he continues his education to this day to ensure that he’s up to date on the latest in dentistry.
If you have any questions about Invisalign, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (952) 906-0200.