If you’re considering orthodontic treatment with the help of Invisalign, you probably have a lot of questions. After all, it’s both a time and financial commitment. It also may even seem too good to be true: after all, how can a thin plastic tray make such a dramatic difference in your smile?

If you’ve got burning questions about Invisalign, don’t despair. Here are some common queries and their answers to help you make an educated decision about your oral health!

How Long Do I Need to Wear My Aligners Each Day?

One of the best perks of Invisalign is that you can easily remove your aligners to eat, drink, and brush your teeth, but you still must wear them for most of the day for them to be effective. Plan on keeping them in for at least 22 hours each day, including while you’re sleeping.

How Long Will My Invisalign Treatment Last?

While it depends on each individual, your treatment could last anywhere from one to two years, but the average treatment takes approximately 12 months. Your dentist will be able to give you a better idea of exactly how long it will take to achieve your smile goals.

How Do I Clean My Aligners?

Aligners can be cleaned much easier than traditional braces. Just rinse them off each time you remove them and clean them each morning with retainer soak and then brush them with toothpaste and a soft toothbrush.

Also, be sure to brush your teeth each time you eat and rinse your mouth after drinking anything but water so that you’re not trapping food between your teeth and aligners.

What Happens if My Aligners Change Colors?

While your aligners are supposed to be clear, they can sometimes become discolored if you aren’t careful. This can be caused by eating or smoking while wearing them, or by soaking them in denture soak or mouthwash. To keep them clear, be sure to keep them clean with the steps above, and always remove them for eating and drinking colored beverages.

Will I Need a Retainer After Invisalign?

Yes, you will most likely need a retainer after Invisalign, or after any orthodontic treatment. Thankfully, your retainer will only need to be worn for a fraction of the time you wore your aligners (usually just at night) so you’ll be free to enjoy your new smile for most of the day.

What Happens if My Aligner Is Sharp or Hurting Me?

While some initial discomfort is normal when you switch to a new set of aligners, you should not feel any pain from them. Occasionally, you might experience some poking or a sharp edge, which you can easily adjust with a nail file. Do not cut your aligners as this can damage them. If you are not comfortable or sure how to correct a sharp edge, speak to your dentist who will happily make the modification for you.

Remember, Invisalign is an exciting way to align your teeth, but it’s normal to have a lot of questions about it. Speak to your dentist with any concerns and you’ll be showing off a beautiful new smile in no time!

About Our Practice

At Kraft & Schrott Dental Associates we work together to help customize patient care and provide oral health solutions that fit your needs. Whether you need a cleaning, exam, cosmetic dentistry procedure, or are ready to improve your smile with the help of Invisalign, our team is ready to help.

To schedule an appointment, please visit our website or call us at 617-227-4924.