What They Don’t Always Tell You About Getting Invisalign – But Should

Thanks to aligner brands like Invisalign, orthodontic treatment no longer has the stigma attached to it that used to be associated with metal braces. Transparent aligners offer a discreet and convenient alternative to the clunky metal braces of old. But while the benefits of Invisalign are broadcast worldwide, there are a few aspects that most people getting aligners don’t discover until they commence their orthodontic journey. Read on to learn some key details about Invisalign that are often brushed aside. Knowing more about the finer details of Invisalign can help make your treatment smoother and more successful. Let’s jump in and take a closer look.

The initial adjustment period can be testing

One of the main reasons people choose aligners is comfort and while this is generally the case compared to metal braces, switching to a new set of aligners can initially cause some discomfort. Aligners are worn over the teeth like a mouthguard and are at their tightest when you switch to a new set. This can potentially make your gums feel tender or sore as the teeth start to shift. Don’t worry. This is a positive sign that your aligners are working and any discomfort is only temporary and can usually be eased with over-the-counter painkillers. According to the NIH, most tooth movement occurs within the first 24 hours of switching aligners so after that it should all be plain sailing.

Top tip: Switching to new aligner trays before bedtime can help you sleep through the most intense adjustment period.

Aligners must be worn for 20-22 hours every day

The effectiveness of Invisalign is dependent on wearing the aligners every day for 20-22 hours, removing them only when you eat or drink anything other than water and for brushing and flossing your teeth. Remember, if you’re not wearing your aligners they can’t move your teeth.

If you have a busy lifestyle or like to snack throughout the day this commitment could necessitate significant adjustments in your lifestyle. Failure to comply with this Invisalign ‘rule’ may compromise your treatment and you may not get the results you hoped for.

Oral hygiene becomes a full-time job

When getting Invisalign, oral hygiene needs to be uppermost in your mind. Because the aligners are worn over your teeth creating a ‘seal’ between your teeth and gums, particles of food and bacteria can become trapped, increasing your risk of developing gum disease and cavities. To prevent this from happening, you will need to brush and floss after every snack or meal and rinse your aligners before placing them back in your mouth.

Top tip: Carry a small oral hygiene kit with you containing a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss.

Attachments aren’t as ‘invisible’

Attachments are tiny custom-made invisible bumps affixed to the teeth during Invisalign treatment to help guide tooth movement. While they can be color-matched to your teeth, they may be more visible than you expected depending on their location. For instance, attachments on your front teeth are likely to be more visible than attachments on your back molars. 

Top tip: If you’re concerned about visibility, speak to your dentist or orthodontist who will do their best to place them in the least conspicuous location.

You may require refinements after initial treatment

Invisalign refinement trays refer to additional aligners that may be used to fine-tune the results of your final smile. These refinements are required when your teeth haven’t quite moved as predicted and need a little extra ‘push’ to get them into the desired position. While not everyone needs refinements, in a  2022 retrospective study many orthodontists reported that 70-80% of patients do. While refinements may lengthen your treatment time by a few months, being able to smile confidently, more than makes up for it.

You will need to wear a retainer

Some people getting Invisalign may think their treatment ends once they achieve their final smile but unfortunately, this isn’t the case. Patients should know they will need to wear a retainer to prevent their teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Your dentist will instruct you on how often and for how long you need to wear the retainer. Often, patients need to wear their retainer full time for a few months after which it’s nighttime only for a year or more. Nearly all orthodontists recommend wearing some form of retainer indefinitely once their braces have been removed.  

Invisalign doesn’t always work faster than traditional braces

Although Invisalign is effective for treating a wide range of orthodontic issues it’s not always the quickest solution. Invisalign slowly aligns all the teeth simultaneously whereas braces apply pressure on those teeth that are misaligned. An approximate treatment guide is 7-18 months for Invisalign and 20-24 months for metal braces.

The more crooked the teeth, the longer Invisalign takes which is why there’s a wider timeframe than braces. Another thing to note is that failure to comply with the Invisalign 20-22 hours a day rule can mean your treatment will take longer, even in cases that are not that complex.

It’s a significant investment but one that pays off

The cost of Invisalign varies depending on the complexity of your case and where you live but on average you can expect to pay between $3,000 and $8,000.  While it sounds like a big investment, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits of aligned teeth including improved oral health, a boost in confidence, and reduced dental issues in the future.

Stat to know:  According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, 48% of adults consider a smile to be the most memorable feature after meeting a person for the first time.

Final thoughts

Invisalign does an amazing job of achieving a straighter, healthier smile, but it’s not without its challenges. By understanding the lesser-known aspects of treatment—like the need for consistent wear, rigorous hygiene, and potential refinements—you’ll be better prepared for a successful journey.

Ready to take the first step?

Contact Chesterfield Dentistry at 314-936-3621 or use our online booking service to schedule your Invisalign consultation. Your perfect smile is closer than you think!