Invisalign is a modern alternative to traditional metal braces. It works by gradually realigning teeth without the use of metal brackets or wires. Invisalign uses a series of customized, removable aligners that are individually designed for each patient. Each aligner is virtually invisible and can be removed during meals or while brushing and flossing your teeth.
The aligners are comfortable, stain-resistant, and easy to maintain, allowing you to experience a newfound smile from the convenient alignment of your teeth with almost no daily maintenance! Unlike traditional braces, which cause discomfort and make it difficult to clean between appointments, Invisalign leads you through every step included in your treatment plan with ease, making it an ideal choice for those seeking discreet and cost-effective treatment for their misaligned teeth.
How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Last?
Invisalign is a modern solution to traditional metal braces and can be quite an effective treatment for those seeking to improve their smile. If you want to straighten your teeth with Invisalign, you will have to commit to a certain length of treatment, depending on the severity of your case. Generally, treatment can last anywhere from 6 months to 1 year or more. However, this time frame heavily depends on factors such as age and severity of misalignment and crowding. Your Invisalign provider will be able to give you an estimate based on your specific needs.
During this time, patients wear aligners that are made from highly advanced SmartTrack material, which gently brings teeth into alignment. It is important to wear the aligners for at least 20-22 hours a day to keep treatment on track and ensure results that last over time. Fortunately, most people tolerate Invisalign treatments quite well; however, some discomfort may occur after new aligners are put in place as your teeth adjust to the shifting process. With proper use and timely checkups with your orthodontist, you can enjoy a straighter smile faster than you ever thought possible!
What Factors Can Compromise the Progress Made by Invisalign?
Unfortunately, there are several factors that can affect your Invisalign treatment and slow down the progress made by your aligners. To ensure that you get the most out of your Invisalign experience, it is important to follow instructions given by your orthodontist regarding proper care and use of the aligners.
Below are some of the most common factors that can compromise your Invisalign progress:
Not Wearing Aligners for the Recommended Amount of Time
With the introduction of Invisalign, many individuals are beginning to seek out this alternative to traditional braces as a way to discreetly adjust their smiles. Despite this, progress made with Invisalign can be compromised if the aligners are not worn for the recommended amount of time or at all.
While Invisalign-provided instruction guides can help provide an ideal wear schedule, the actual duration that is necessary will depend on the individual in question and their desired outcome. Patients should therefore work closely with their orthodontist to ensure they follow through with wearing their aligners as planned because, without doing so, it may take longer to achieve desired results or, worse - require additional treatments.
Not Following Instructions Provided by Your Orthodontist
It is important to remember that while Invisalign offers an impressive degree of convenience, you still need to follow the instructions provided by your orthodontist closely in order to get the desired results. Failing to do so can result in a longer treatment time or, even worse, no progress at all! Ensure that you wear your aligners for the recommended amount of time as prescribed by your orthodontist, take them out only when necessary, and do not manipulate them with your hands. Following these simple steps will help ensure successful Invisalign treatment and a beautiful smile forever after!
Poor Oral Hygiene, Such as Not Brushing and Flossing Regularly
One of the most important factors to consider when using Invisalign is practising good oral hygiene. Without regular brushing and flossing, bacteria can build up inside the aligner trays and cause greater damage to teeth. When plaque accumulates further, the teeth may not reach their ideal position during treatment.
Poor oral hygiene can also interfere with the patient’s comfort level during wear - since the aligners are in constant contact with the teeth and gums, a lack of proper hygiene results in irritation and sensitivity. Therefore, it is essential for any Invisalign patient to practice good dental habits, such as brushing twice a day and flossing once a day for optimal results.
Eating or Drinking With Aligners in Place
Eating and drinking with aligners in place can potentially interfere with the progress of Invisalign treatment. The aligners are designed to fit snugly around the teeth to lead them in the correct direction, but some foods or drinks may cause the aligners to shift from their current position, either removing the pressure that is required for movement or pushing them too far, which could cause complications.
This shifting can even increase tooth sensitivity as well as discomfort, so it should be avoided in order to ensure your Invisalign experience is successful. We recommend you take out your aligners before eating or drinking, brush and floss thoroughly afterwards, and then put them back in your mouth later - this will help maintain a successful course of treatment without any compromises.
Wrapping Up
Invisalign is an effective and convenient way to adjust your smile without having to commit to traditional metal braces. However, this does not mean you can get away with not following proper care instructions, as any negligence can compromise treatment results.
Therefore, we highly recommend that Invisalign patients follow all of the aforementioned tips in order to ensure successful treatment and beautiful smiles for many years!
