Invisalign debuted in the late 1990s, completely revolutionizing the field of orthodontics. Since then, more than 8 million patients have used their clear aligners to discreetly straighten their teeth and achieve their smile goals. However, there are a few aspects of treatment that patients are often surprised by. With this in mind, keep reading to learn a few things you should know about Invisalign.
#1. You Have to Wear Them for 22 Hours a Day
Since Invisalign’s clear aligners are entirely removable, patients often think that they can remove them during a work meeting, date, or anytime they feel uncomfortable. In reality, you have to wear them for 22 hours a day to stay on track with your treatment timeline! Therefore, you should only remove them to eat and complete your oral hygiene regimen.
#2. You Might Lose Weight
Any orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign, comes with some discomfort. After all, your teeth are being guided into an entirely new position! Since the aligners are tight and your teeth will be sore, you’ll likely be sticking to soft foods, like smoothies, omelets, applesauce, and yogurt. The reduced snacking and increased intake of vitamin-rich products like these is what’s referred to as the “Invisalign diet.” To keep your body nourished, try adding a protein shake filled with veggies and fats (like peanut butter or chia seeds) to each meal.
#3. You Need to Brush Your Teeth More Often
Keeping your teeth and gums happy and healthy requires you to brush both morning and night. With Invisalign, you’ll need to brush after each meal. This will prevent plaque, food particles, and bacteria from clinging to your teeth throughout the day, which can significantly increase your chances of developing a cavity or gum disease. So, get used to the idea of keeping a dental hygiene kit with you everywhere you go, including work. That way, you can brush your teeth on the go.
#4. Your Aligners Can Stain
One of the biggest draws of Invisalign is that its aligners are clear, making your orthodontic treatment incredibly discreet. So, patients are often surprised to learn that the trays can stain. Typically, this is a result of unhealthy habits, like not brushing your teeth enough or neglecting to clean your aligners. Therefore, it’s of the utmost importance that you brush after each meal, floss both morning and night, and remove the trays anytime you eat or drink (with the exception of water).
If crooked, gapped, or otherwise misaligned teeth dull your self-confidence, then it’s time to consider Invisalign. With the above information, you’ll be prepared. As a result, you’ll have the smooth, stress-free treatment you want!
About the Author
For more than two decades now, Dr. Ryan Bygness has helped patients from all over the Denison area achieve the happy, healthy, beautiful smiles they deserve. He earned his dental doctorate from the University of Iowa College of Dentistry before completing his orthodontic certificate with the American Orthodontic Society. All these years later, he is as committed as ever to providing his patients with the absolute best. In fact, he has over 400 hours of continuing education in orthodontics alone! So, if you’re interested in learning more about Invisalign, visit our website or give us a call at 712-263-3252.