An alternative orthodontic treatment to traditional braces is Invisalign clear aligners. This has become a popular way to straighten teeth without the negative aspects that patients link to metal braces, like the noticeable appearance, limited diet, and difficulty cleaning. If you are considering Invisalign treatment, here are some common questions and answers about this revolutionary method.
Do I have to wear the aligners all the time?
Your goal should be wearing the aligners all the time except for eating, drinking, or cleaning your teeth. Wearing them 20 to 22 hours a day will help you finish treatment faster.
Can I at least remove them for special occasions?
Unlike traditional braces, it’s possible to remove your aligners when you’d like. That means special occasions or playing rough sports might be a time that you skip your aligners. However, don’t do it very often or you’ll risk delaying your treatment.
Do I have to change my diet?
You don’t have to alter your diet at all during Invisalign treatment since you remove the aligners for eating and drinking.
Will it affect my speech?
Wearing aligners can impact your speech until you get used to them. It usually takes a short time to adjust to the plastic aligners.
Do I wear the same aligners the whole time?
Your dentist or orthodontist will develop a plan that includes changing your aligners as your treatment progresses. You will change to a new set of aligners every couple of weeks or so. On average, patients need between 20 to 30 sets of aligners during treatment.
How often do I have to go for checkups?
You will go in for checkups about every 4 to 6 weeks so that your progress may be monitored. Appointments are typically short.
How long does treatment last?
Many patients report that Invisalign treatment requires less time to complete than traditional braces. Of course, it depends on your commitment to the process and the extent of correction required.
