Invisalign: Understanding the Common Issues

When you fully understand the common issues associated with Invisalign, it will help you determine if this treatment is the best solution for you. Once you have all the facts, then you will have more confidence in your decision. While Invisalign has many benefits, there are some common problems, but they come with solutions. Some patients report having pain, but this peaks at about 24 hours after wearing a new aligner. The good news is that any small pain decreases once you get used to wearing an aligner – in fact after a week or so you will barely feel it. Then there are patients who have concern with their aligners locking food particles and bacteria between their teeth, which increases the risk of bad breath and tooth decay. However, brushing and flossing after you eat, or drink, is a must before putting your aligner back in. It’s important to always keep a toothbrush and toothpaste with you at all times. If you keep your teeth clean, then you should not have a problem with what many call a “gross mouth.” Additionally, patients also report excess saliva, which makes perfect sense. When your body first notices that something foreign is in your mouth, it automatically works by trying to digest it, which means that you will produce extra saliva. But this improves quickly, and when you first start treatment, try and resist the urge to remove the aligner when you are alone and around others as this will only prolong the adjustment period. There are some who also report that their invisible braces pose a problem on the relationship front. Some patients have concern about intimacy issues with their partner while wearing their aligner. The best way around this is to remove the aligner and remember that you get two hours without it a day (it is recommended to wear your aligner for 22 hours per day). Other small problems you may encounter is having a lisp when you talk, and a dry mouth. However, the more you wear the aligner, your body will get used to it. In all, most patients prefer Invisalign over traditional braces for two main reasons: you can remove them if needed, and they are an effective treatment for helping straighten teeth.

There is presently a 96% satisfaction rate and an average of a one-year treatment period. In order for the treatment to be successful, your dentist will need to assess your teeth closely through cutting-edge 3D images and determine the right treatment plan for your new beautiful smile. Here is a closer look at the success of Invisalign and what patients are reporting: healthier teeth and gums due to easy access for brushing and flossing; top marks on the convenience front for removability for eating, cleaning and those special occasions – business or romantic; fewer dental appointments since adjustments are not necessary; no irritation and mouth sores; and a more attractive appearance during treatment.

You should not use Invisalign if you have any teeth that are short, round, or pegged as this will prevent your aligner from having a good grip, and the treatment will also not close large gaps between the teeth. Invisalign should
also not be used if you had prior dental work, like a dental bridge, as it will prevent you from wearing an aligner, and if your teeth are extremely rotated, the treatment will not be able to shift them back into proper alignment.

While Invisalign works for most people, it doesn’t work for everyone. Many people are candidates for this treatment, but every patient’s case needs to be assessed by a dentist or orthodontist. If you had previous dental work, or your teeth are extremely gapped or rotated, then you should consult with a doctor for other teeth alignment alternatives, one being traditional braces. Those who have followed the treatment recommend it, and if it’s not for you, you will have that peace of mind knowing that there are lots of other options.

Allure Dental Center offers Invisalign, so book an appointment with us today to learn more about this treatment. New patients can call us anytime: (650) 538-8826.