If you’ve been considering Invisalign, you’re not alone. Clear aligners have become a popular alternative to traditional braces because they’re discreet, comfortable, and removable. Whether you’re a teen or an adult, Invisalign can help correct many common orthodontic concerns, including crooked teeth, gaps, and bite issues.
Before you begin treatment, it’s helpful to understand what the process involves. Here are 4 important details you should know before getting Invisalign.
1. You’ll Need to Wear Your Aligners Most of the Day
One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. However, that flexibility also comes with responsibility.
For Invisalign to work effectively, you’ll typically need to wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day. They should only be removed when you’re eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing.
If you frequently forget to put your aligners back in or wear them for fewer hours than recommended, your teeth may not move as planned. This can delay your progress and may even require additional aligners or refinements to achieve your desired results.
2. Oral Hygiene Becomes Even More Important
Since your aligners fit snugly over your teeth, it’s important to keep both your teeth and the aligners clean. Food particles and plaque trapped beneath the trays can increase your risk of cavities, bad breath, and gum irritation.
You’ll need to brush and floss after every meal before reinserting your aligners. Cleaning the aligners daily with the products recommended by your dentist will also help keep them clear and free of odor-causing bacteria.
Developing these habits early will help protect your oral health throughout treatment.
3. You’ll Switch to New Aligners Regularly
Invisalign works by gradually moving your teeth through a series of custom-made aligners. Each set is designed to make small, precise adjustments to your smile.
Most patients switch to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, depending on their treatment plan. It’s normal to experience mild pressure or tenderness for a day or two after changing to a new set. This is often a sign that the aligners are working to move your teeth.
Attending your scheduled checkups allows your dentist to monitor your progress and ensure your treatment stays on track.
4. Retainers Are Part of the Process
Many people think treatment ends when the final aligners come off, but that’s only part of the journey. After Invisalign is complete, you’ll need to wear a retainer to help keep your teeth in their new positions.
Without a retainer, teeth naturally tend to shift over time, potentially undoing the results you’ve worked hard to achieve. Your dentist will explain how often you’ll need to wear your retainer to maintain your beautiful new smile.
Invisalign offers an effective, convenient way to straighten your teeth, but successful treatment depends on your commitment. Wearing your aligners consistently, maintaining excellent oral hygiene, following your treatment schedule, and wearing your retainer afterward all play an important role in achieving lasting results.
About the Practice
Dr. James Nelson has been serving Metairie residents since 2013. The Baton Rouge native earned his dental degree from the LSU School of Dentistry in New Orleans, but his education didn’t end there – he’s also a certified Invisalign provider and has studied at the renowned Spear Institute. On top of that, Dr. Nelson maintains memberships in the American Dental Association, the Louisiana Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. If you’re seeking Invisalign treatment, book an appointment through our website or call (504) 887-3311.