At Johnson & Collins Orthodontics, our mission is to help patients throughout the Bedford and Southlake, Texas, areas achieve a beautiful new smile. We’re proud to offer a wide range of orthodontic treatments from our two offices, and while braces are still the most popular treatment we offer, Invisalign® provides a compelling alternative. If you’re considering improving your smile with Invisalign, we couldn’t be more excited for you – and here are a few things you should know before starting your treatment.
10 facts about Invisalign
Invisalign is a convenient, virtually invisible alternative to traditional braces. Here are a few things you’ll want to know before revitalizing your smile with Invisalign:
- It truly is virtually invisible: True to its name, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible when worn. They’re still detectable, on close inspection – but most people won’t ever know they’re there, and they won’t show up in photos or from a distance.
- They only work when worn: The convenience of removable aligners is unmatched, but it comes with a price. Invisalign can only work when your aligners are in, so wearing them for the full 22 hours a day is crucial. Otherwise, you risk slowing or derailing your treatment.
- It’s not for everyone: While Invisalign can treat the vast majority of orthodontic problems, there are still some cases where Invisalign may not be the right choice. For patients needing extensive correction or jaw realignment, braces may offer a better treatment.
- Expect an adjustment period: Most patients notice a slight lisp or change in their speech when they first start with Invisalign. This is usually mild, though, and fades within a week.
- Brush religiously: During treatment, you’ll need to brush your teeth every time you consume anything other than water. Otherwise, you risk trapping food particles under your aligners and putting your teeth at risk of decay.
- Make a care kit: Because oral hygiene is so important, many patients find it helpful to make an on-the-go care kit. Include things like a small toothbrush, toothpaste, and everything else you need to clean your teeth and aligners and take it with you wherever you go.
- Use your case: We’ll provide a special case for your Invisalign aligners, and while it may seem like a small detail, make sure you use it! Far too many patients have accidentally wrapped their aligners in a napkin and accidentally thrown them away, and using the case can help prevent this.
- Don’t use toothpaste on aligners: Toothpaste is too abrasive for the material of aligners and can scratch them. Instead, use a toothbrush with water or diluted soap to clean your aligners.
- You’ll still need a retainer: As with all forms of orthodontic treatment, you’ll have to go through a retention period after finishing the active phase of treatment. However, most patients can use a pair of “finishing aligners,” which are identical to regular Invisalign aligners.
- It’ll be worth it: Despite the minor inconveniences of treatment, virtually every patient finds that it was all worth it in the end. After all, any inconvenience is both minor and temporary – but your new smile will last you a lifetime.
Schedule a free consultation with a Southlake & Bedford orthodontist
Invisalign offers an exciting, convenient alternative to treatment with traditional braces, and if you’re interested in learning how Invisalign can help improve your smile, we’d love to help. Contact us today to learn more about Invisalign and schedule a free consultation at one of our offices. We can’t wait to hear from you, and we’re excited to help you achieve your dream smile! Learn more about orthodontics in Southlake and Bedford, Texas, on our blog!