More people than ever are dealing with the effects of crooked or misaligned teeth. In fact, nine out of 10 people have teeth that are slightly misaligned or do not have enough room to grow in their mouth. Because it is such a huge problem, people are looking for fast and effective ways to straighten their teeth.
Do you want to learn more about the benefits of Invisalign, how aligners work, and how you can begin improving dental health? Keep reading these common Invisalign questions to learn more!
1. How Do They Work?
Many people do not understand how Invisalign works. Because braces were the primary treatment for crooked teeth or a misaligned jaw, it seems hard to believe that there is an easier option!
Rather than using wire to move your teeth into place, like regular braces, Invisalign uses aligners. These are clear trays that are almost invisible! When you get Invisalign for your teeth, these trays are made specifically for your mouth. By wearing them for most of the day, your teeth will gradually start to shift to the right places.
After your teeth shift to fit the first set of aligners, you will get a new set of aligners that will be able to continue the process.
2. How Long Does It Take to Work?
One of the next most common Invisalign questions is about how long it will take. People like to see quick results, especially when it comes to beauty and style. If you do not want to be stuck with wire braces for months or years, Invisalign may be a better option for you.
The length of your Invisalign treatment will solely depend on you. First, how crooked were your teeth to start? If you have teeth that are severely crooked, you may find that it takes longer for the Invisalign process to work.
Second, do you wear your aligners as directed? As was mentioned, you get the best results when you wear your aligners for most of the day. Typically, your doctor will suggest that you wear them for at least 20 hours each day.
If you wear your aligners the way you are supposed to, you may not have to keep them as long. Typically, Invisalign treatment lasts about one year.
3. What Problems Does Invisalign Treat?
If you want Invisalign to help with your oral problems, you may wonder what types of problems can be treated with Invisalign. While most people use them to straighten their teeth, you can also use Invisalign to fix issues with your jaw! This includes an underbite and an overbite.
Are you looking to use Invisalign to improve the aesthetics of your teeth? Your aligners can help straighten crooked teeth and they can also close gaps in your smile.
If you are experiencing more serious or complicated orthodontic issues, Invisalign may not be the best option for you.
4. Why Can’t You Eat With Aligners?
Often, people are surprised to hear that you cannot eat with your aligners. There are a few reasons for this.
Eating can cause damage to your aligners. They can warp the material, discolor your aligners, and more. If your aligners are discolored, they will no longer be clear or invisible. This makes it easier to tell that you are wearing your aligners.
To keep your aligners in great shape, you should always remove your aligners when you eat. When you are done eating, you can brush your teeth and replace your aligners.
5. How Does Maintenance for Aligners Work?
When you are living with Invisalign, there are a few things you need to do each day to keep them in great shape!
First, you want to rinse your aligners every day. When you brush your teeth, you can also brush your aligners with your toothbrush to remove bacteria and to keep your teeth safer. If you wear your aligners after eating, it increases your risk of developing cavities and other oral health issues.
Besides regularly brushing and rinsing your aligners, your dentist will provide a cleaning system for your Invisalign. This cleaner will help keep your aligners clear and will prevent discoloration.
6. What Are the Main Differences Between Braces and Invisalign?
The main difference between Invisalign and braces is the methods used to shift your teeth. First, braces use metal wires, rubber bands, and more to gradually shift your teeth. When you use aligners, you use clear trays to move your teeth. Typically you will get new aligners each week to continue moving your teeth.
Second, the look of your mouth will differ when you have braces or when you have Invisalign. Braces are more obvious and easy to see. Because Invisalign aligners are clear, they are easier to hide.
Finally, maintenance for braces and Invisalign differs. With braces, you have to avoid certain foods, learn how to floss around your braces, and more. With Invisalign, you simply remove your aligners when you eat and you rinse or brush your aligners each night.
7. What Does Invisalign Cost?
Finally, many people want to know how much Invisalign costs before they start the process. If your insurance covers your aligners, it may cost a lot less. If not, it can cost a few thousand dollars. Typically, Invisalign will cost anywhere from $1,000-$3,000.
To get a more accurate estimate for the cost of Invisalign, contact your dentist to learn more about Invisalign treatment for crooked teeth.
Find Answers to Other Common Invisalign Questions Today
If you are thinking about using Invisalign to get straighter teeth, you may have a lot of common Invisalign questions. When you ask your dentist or orthodontist each of these questions, they can help you decide whether or not it is a good option for you!
Do you want to learn more about Invisalign? Look at the other articles on our website to learn more about beauty, health, and more!