What is Invisalign?
Odds are that you know someone who is using Invisalign – but you wouldn’t know it just by looking at them. Invisalign uses clear plastic trays to gradually move your teeth into their proper place, and you get a new tray every 2 weeks or so. These trays are close to invisible, and even those who know you use Invisalign won’t be able to tell when you are wearing a tray.
Here are some other things you should know:
1. Unlike metal braces, with Invisalign you can enjoy whatever food you would like. You don’t have to worry about food getting stuck in your braces or causing damage; when it is time to eat you simply take out your tray, then put it back when you’re done.
2. It is easier to take care of your teeth than it is with metal braces. Instead of maneuvering around wires and brackets to brush and floss, you just take out your tray.
3. They are much more comfortable than metal braces. You don’t have to deal with the pain of poking wires or brackets rubbing against your cheek, and you don’t have to deal with the discomfort of newly tightened braces.
4. Invisalign can be used to help with a variety of problems, such as an under or overbite, overcrowding, gaps, protruding teeth, and even some crossbites (when the upper teeth sit inside of lower teeth). Having straighter teeth is also better for the health of your jaw, and it can help to prevent jaw pain and problems.
5. Invisalign requires fewer trips to the dentist than metal braces do.
How Can Your Dentist Help You Plan Invisalign Treatment?
Knowing how Invisalign works is one thing, but understanding what it can do for your teeth requires a dental evaluation. At Pacific Northwest Smiles, Dr. Darren Greenhalgh can examine your tooth alignment and bite to determine whether clear aligners are appropriate for you. He can also explain the expected treatment duration, how often you’ll need new aligners, and when follow-up visits may be necessary.
A good Invisalign consultation should leave you with a clear picture of the treatment process, including daily aligner wear and follow-up visits. The Dental Marketing Secrets Podcast shares insights for dental professionals on improving patient communication and setting realistic treatment expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Invisalign as effective as traditional braces?
Invisalign can treat many mild to moderate alignment problems. Traditional braces may be more suitable for complex tooth movements or severe bite issues.
Can you drink coffee while wearing Invisalign?
No. Remove Invisalign aligners before drinking coffee, tea, or other beverages besides water. Hot drinks can warp the trays, while colored beverages may stain them.
What happens if you forget to wear Invisalign for a day?
Missing a full day can delay tooth movement and cause your aligners to feel tight. Resume wearing them as directed and contact your dentist if they no longer fit properly.
If you want to do something about crooked teeth but don’t want to deal with metal braces, Invisalign may just be the solution for you. Pacific Northwest Smiles for an Invisalign consultation. Call the office in Mill Creek, Washington, at 425-357-6400 today!