How Does Invisalign Work?
Are crooked teeth or a bad bite affecting your smile? Sunrise Dental can help! Our Invisalign patients love their new smiles. If you’re wondering how Invisalign works, how long it takes, and whether or not it’s right for you, our friendly dentists are here to answer all of your questions.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign gently straightens teeth gently using a series of clear, plastic aligners. Every set of aligners is designed specifically for you, based on 3D scans of your mouth. Changing the aligners every one to two weeks will gradually reposition your teeth. Unlike metal braces, you can remove your Invisalign aligners to eat and to clean your teeth.
Many people prefer Invisalign as an alternative to metal braces because the clear aligners are less noticeable and more comfortable. The removable aligners also make it easier to keep your teeth clean and allow you to eat normally. You can still enjoy all your favorite foods—just remember to floss and brush before you put your aligners back in!
How long does it take for Invisalign to work?
Aligning your teeth can take anywhere from nine to fifteen months, with most patients completing their treatment in less than a year. Invisalign is a big commitment on your part—your aligners won’t work if you don’t wear them properly. You’ll start seeing results after just a few weeks, but be prepared to make some lifestyle adjustments.
Although you will remove your aligners to eat, meals are the exception. Recommended wear time is 22 hours a day, so you’ll have to get used to snacking less and sleeping with the aligners on. And, after the treatment is complete, you’ll still need to wear a plastic retainer at night to ensure that your teeth keep their alignment.
Are the Invisalign aligners painful?
Because the process is so gradual, most patients experience only minor discomfort. Your teeth might feel a little sore when you start a new aligner, or you might feel some pressure. We recommend starting a new tray at bedtime, so the new adjustments can begin while you’re asleep.
We’ll set appointments every six to eight weeks to check on your progress and prepare your next set of aligners. Some trays may cause more pressure than others, depending on the type of adjustments needed. We’ll always make sure that your aligners fit correctly and cause you as little discomfort as possible.
Contact Us
Invisalign can correct many problems, like crooked or crowded teeth or an abnormal bite. Wondering how Invisalign could work for you? Our friendly dentists at Sunrise Dental in Peoria can answer all of your questions about Invisalign. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.
Photo by JC Gellidon on Unsplash used under Creative Commons license for commercial use 1/15/2021.