Most Invisalign patients or people who are interested in the treatment have plenty more than five questions about how the orthodontic alternative works. Here, we are covering five of the most frequently asked Invisalign questions so you can feel informed and knowledgeable going into your consultation with your dentist.
1. What does it feel like to wear Invisalign?
Invisalign aligners are very thin and fit snugly against your teeth. However, the first time you put the trays in your mouth things will feel weird and uncomfortable. You might even talk a little differently, but only for a few days. Very quickly, you will adjust to the sensations and, eventually, Invisalign will become a normal part of your day.
When you switch to a new set of aligners, they will feel very snug again – an indication that the treatment is working – but doing this before you go to bed can help you get through the worst of the new pressure. If you need attachments (the small composite bumps that make your trays fit better), these will be noticeable when you run your tongue over your teeth – the dots stick out slightly.
2. Do I have to wear Invisalign all the time?
Invisalign means freedom in the orthodontic world. Someone with metal braces can’t take a break from their brackets and wires, but you can remove your trays for a little reprieve when you need it. Patients should not take advantage of this privilege though and only remove their aligners for meals and cleanings. Trays are designed for near-constant wear, 20 to 22 hours, every day throughout your entire treatment. Going for more than an hour or two can compromise the success of your treatment.
3. How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Every patient is different but, in most cases, treatment takes about one year to complete. Invisalign is different than other teeth straightening methods because it shifts both tooth roots and crowns simultaneously, cutting typical alignment time in half.
Some patients will require a little more time to straighten their smile because their problems are more complex. Others may only need to correct a few crooked or gapped teeth and their treatment could last six months or less.
4. How much does Invisalign cost?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, so you will need to consult with your Hampton Invisalign provider to find out exactly what your unique cost will be. In general, costs can range from $3,000 to $7,000 but this depends on the length of treatment, complexity of the case, and how many trays the patient must wear. You’ll know exactly where you stand before you even start treatment because you’ll be given a breakdown of all costs and understand that this is a package deal with no surprises along the way.
5. Who should I go to for Invisalign?
You always want to rely on a dentist who is a certified Invisalign provider. This means they have undergone the proper training and have the experience to treat the misalignment problems you are experiencing. Only they can tell you for certain if you are a good candidate for this truly revolutionary orthodontic treatment.
If you want to learn more about Invisalign and find out if it’s right for you, schedule an appointment with Dr. Shevchenko and her team at Smiles by the Sea in Hampton, NH.