What You Need to Know About Invisalign Treatment

Are you considering getting Invisalign treatment? If so, then you’re probably excited to experience the benefits of a beautifully straightened smile! Once you’ve finished your treatment, you can be sure to enjoy healthier teeth in the long run. But what exactly can you expect throughout the process? Read on to learn the answers to several crucial Invisalign questions you might have.

How Long Does Invisalign Usually Take?

While the Invisalign treatment time will vary from patient to patient, the average person may wear their clear aligners for around 12 months. This is a lot quicker than traditional orthodontics, which may take 18+ months to complete. However, some factors can affect the length of the process, from correcting an overbite or underbite to addressing missing teeth. Your dentist will assess your situation and discuss a treatment plan during your consultation to give you a proper estimate of your Invisalign timeframe.

How Noticeable is Invisalign?

Unlike traditional braces, which involve metal brackets and archwires, your clear aligners will be virtually invisible! Unless you tell someone that you’re going through the treatment, they may only notice a slightly shinier smile. For this reason, it’s important to practice good dental hygiene throughout the process to ensure your Invisalign trays remain as discreet as possible.

What Can I Do If My Invisalign Aligners Are Staining?

Although your clear aligners will initially be transparent, they can also easily be stained. This can be due to consuming dark-colored beverages too often, such as coffee, without brushing your teeth afterward. To keep them in pristine condition, be sure to always remove them before you eat or drink anything (except for pure water). You can also soak your clear aligners during your meals to keep them free of debris and bacteria. Brush them and your teeth before wearing them again to ensure there are no stain-causing particles throughout the day.

What Happens After My Invisalign Treatment?

Once you’ve worn your series of Invisalign aligners, you’ll be provided with a retainer to preserve your straightened smile. You may need to wear it for 20-22 hours daily for the first six months to avoid orthodontic relapse. After that, your dentist may suggest that you gradually transition to only wearing them overnight.

With these tips in mind, you should feel more comfortable about what to expect from your Invisalign treatment. And if you have any other questions about the process, feel free to consult your orthodontist!

About the Author

Dr. Steven Stec is a proud affiliate of several groups such as the International College of Dentists and the American and Nebraska Dental Associations. He studied at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry and regularly seeks continuing education to remain on top of the latest developments in the field. He offers multiple comprehensive treatments, including Invisalign for a straighter smile. If you’d like to know more about the Invisalign treatment, visit his website or call 308-382-4440.