FAQs about invisible aligners answered

hand holding invisible aligners

Are you an adult that has misaligned teeth? Do you think your teeth only need gradual tweaking rather than having to go through the wearing of heavy, metal braces?

Invisible aligners have become increasingly popular over the years as an alternative to traditional metal braces. These clear plastic trays are custom-made to fit your teeth and gradually move them into place, making them an ideal option for people who want to straighten their teeth discreetly. However, many people still have questions about how invisible aligners work and whether they are the right choice for them. In this article, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about invisible aligners.

How do invisible aligners work?

woman holding invisible aligners

Invisible aligners, like Invisalign Sydney, work by applying gentle pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them into the desired position. Each set of aligners is made to fit your teeth at different stages of the treatment process. For them to work effectively, you need to wear each set of aligners for 2 weeks before switching to the next set. Over time, your teeth will gradually move into the desired position until they are straightened.

Are invisible aligners effective?

Invisible aligners can be very effective in straightening teeth as long as they are used properly. However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of the treatment depends on the severity of the misalignment of your teeth. For more complex cases, traditional, fitted braces may be a better option.

How long does treatment with invisible aligners take?

The length of treatment with clear aligners depends on the severity of the misalignment of your teeth. On average, treatment takes between 6-9 months. However, some people may require longer treatment times or, if you are lucky, you may have a shorter treatment time.

But the length of the treatment time will depend on multiple factors, such as how long you wear your aligners each day. So, aim to keep them in for prolonged periods of time, and if you are having issues sticking to your prescription, you should talk to your dentist or orthodontist.

How often do I need to wear my invisible aligners?

woman about to wear her invisible aligners

Invisible aligners need to be worn for at least 20-22 hours a day. They should only be removed when eating, brushing, or flossing your teeth.

If you fail to wear your aligners for this period of time each day, your teeth may cease to move, or they may revert to their previous positions.

Are invisible aligners uncomfortable?

Invisible aligners may be uncomfortable for the first few days after you start wearing them. This is because they are putting pressure on your teeth to move them into the desired position. This is a different mechanism to braces that use pulling motions to move the teeth via tightening or adjusting. However, the discomfort you will feel with aligners is mild and should go away within a few days. If the discomfort persists or is severe, you should contact your orthodontist.

Remember, they need to apply pressure to move your teeth, so it may be required that you will need to take pain relief.

DISCLAIMER OFFSITE

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

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