Invisalign® Clear Aligners FAQs
Columbus, OH
 If you are considering orthodontic treatment, chances are that you have also heard of Invisalign. This is a type of orthodontic treatment based on using a system of relatively invisible aligners that help correct problems with bite and teeth alignment. The process is quite simple, involving removable transparent aligners that are changed every two weeks.
Therefore, each aligner is different from the previous one, allowing new movements to be carried out to reach the desired result progressively. While this process has become widely used in cosmetic dentistry, patients may be very hesitant before undergoing it. If you are still not very familiar with the Invisalign process, here at Raptou Family Dental, we present some of the most frequently asked questions that candidates for this treatment tend to have.
How Does This Procedure Work?
The Invisalign system of orthodontics works with transparent trays that help make small, precise movements in the teeth to correct any bite or alignment problems. In many ways, it works similarly to the brackets that we all know. However, the force exerted by the Invisalign system is less, thus being more comfortable for the patient.
In addition, there are some essential elements called “attachments” in the Invisalign system, which are small composite reliefs that adhere to the tooth. The function of these is to help the effectiveness of the procedure by exerting more force to move the position of the teeth. The attachments are also fully personalized, and as the treatment progresses, they are replaced by ones appropriate to the stage.
How Long Do I Have To Wear Invisalign?
This is one of the most important questions a prospective Invisalign user should know. For the treatment to be successful and the results as desired, the patient must wear the splints for 22 hours a day. In other words, they should always be worn, even at bedtime. The trays should only be removed when eating or brushing your teeth.
What Can I Eat and Drink?
One of the primary and most comfortable advantages that Invisalign has over other orthodontic treatments is food related. Since the clear aligner trays are removable, there are no restrictions on eating. It is essential to note that it is best to drink only water while wearing the Invisalign, however. If the patient drinks coffee or smokes often, it is best not to remove the splints, since the 22 hours of daily use may not be met. However, you must be aware that the trays tend to stain and turn yellow if the patient is a tobacco user.
What Is the Maintenance of the Aligners?
The Invisalign care and maintenance routine are pretty simple, thanks to the fact that they are removable trays. This means that the patient can remove the appliance to brush their teeth in the morning and evening. However, it is highly recommended to clean the aligners well every time you take them off and clean them again when you put them back on.
When it is time to clean the trays, it is best to use warm water with neutral soap and brush them carefully. You can also keep them free of stains and foul odors if you submerge them in a glass with a denture-cleaning tablet. When you need to store the aligners, avoid using napkins or tissues. Instead, it is better to use the boxes that we give you to keep them safe.
What Types of Invisalign Are There?
There are mainly three types of Invisalign. These are: Invisalign Lite, Invisalign Full, and Invisalign Teen. Invisalign Lite aims to treat relatively simple cases, such as slight deviations in the teeth. This treatment is usually assigned to people who have previously undergone orthodontics, but for some reason, their teeth have become dislodged again. Its estimated duration is 12 months. Invisalign Full is a more potent and practical option, used primarily when the patient has never had orthodontic treatment and must correct alignment and bite. The estimated time given to this type of Invisalign is 12 to 24 months. However, in some cases, the patient may need to wear the aligner trays longer.
For Invisalign Teen, this version of Invisalign was developed primarily for use in children and teens. It was designed the same way as the Invisalign Full treatment to correct deviations and bite. It also has an approximate time of 12 to 24 months, with the possibility of taking longer, if necessary.
In addition, using Invisalign for teens has additional treatment elements aimed at that specific audience. For example, these types of aligner trays have a usage indicator. This is intended to monitor how long the patients are wearing the trays more accurately. Within this type of clear aligner, you can also find the option of the mandible advancement treatment, designed for children between nine and 11 years old. This treatment works as the patient develops since their bones are relatively more malleable than those of adolescents and adults.
Does Invisalign Hurt?
The answer to this question may vary from person to person. The Invisalign adaptation process is more convenient than braces since no metallic elements can puncture or cut the patient's mouth. Although Invisalign does not cause this type of injury, it may be uncomfortable for some patients for the first few days, thanks to their pressure on the teeth. However, time should reduce this discomfort as the days go by, disappearing during the first week of use.
When Do the Results of Invisalign Begin to Be Noticed?
The time of the evidence in the results of Invisalign may vary depending on the treatment you receive. For example, patients under the Lite treatment will be able to notice the results faster than patients in the Full treatment.
The same happens with the duration of treatment. There is no exact time since the treatment may last more or less than the established time depending on the correction being treated. We can say, as a guide, that the changes usually begin to be noticed after three to four weeks. On the other hand, the standard duration can range between 12 and 24 months, with the possibility of taking longer.
Now that you know more about the Invisalign process, you can decide whether or not you want to undergo this treatment option. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us (614) 427-0449. In case you want to be a patient of this process or would like more of your questions answered, at Raptou Family Dental we are here for you. We want to help you obtain the smile you desire!
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