8 interesting things you should know about Invisalign before you try it.

A Perfect Smile Orthodontics is an Elite Provider of Invisalign® and we have worked with hundreds of patients using Invisalign technology to straighten their teeth and give them a beautiful smile. Here are some interesting facts and information about Invisalign that many people don’t know. 

1. You do actually have to wear them and it does take some discipline.

You can take them out – to eat or to use your mouth for something like public speaking, playing a wind instrument or singing. That’s one of the things that’s so great about this type of aligner. But the deal is that you need to wear the aligners for at least 20 hours per day, 22 is better yet.

2. They may be invisable “braces” but you can still hear them.

It’s nothing very drastic, but it is a little more difficult to talk with aligners in. Don’t try saying “she sells sea shells down by the sea shore” as you are definitely going to hear a big difference. The good news is that it gets better with time. As you get more used to talking with the aligners your pronunciation will improve.

3. Invisalign is often the best choice, but not always.

Invisalign can treat most orthodontic situations such as crooked teeth, gaps and overbites. But sometimes there are scenarios, such as having too big of an overbite, where traditional braces are going to be a bit faster. Dr. Taylor will advise you on this if it is the case.

4. Your toothbrush is going to be your new best friend.

You will need to be brushing after each meal before you put your aligners back in, so having a travel container with toothbrush and toothpaste is going to be important. And you are going to have to limit your cups of coffee and glasses of wine (things that will stain your teeth) as it really is best to drink these without your aligners and to brush your teeth before you put them back in. 

5. You might even lose some weight.

I know you were waiting for the good news. Well, the truth is that nibbling and snacking throughout the day is no longer possible, so if you are use to that, then you may end up inadvertently cutting some calories. Could be a blessing in disguise. When others are eating the office donuts you might curse your Invisalign, until you notice that you can now fit into some of your favorite clothes that you haven’t been able to wear for a while and that you have more energy.

6. They are virtually painless.

With Invisalign, your new aligners might make your teeth a bit sore on the first day or two, after that you can hardly tell you have them on.

7. It might take longer than you think.

The average treatment with Invisalign is one year. Some treatments are much less, some more. Sometimes you may need a new set of “finishing aligners” to do the final tweaking to get your teeth just right.

8. It is absolutely worth it – 100 percent.

Although you suffer a bit and sacrifice some things for maybe a year, let’s look at the plus side. Having a beautiful smile, improved confidence and a professional appearance for the rest of your life, well that’s a pretty good deal I would say!