Invisalign® Clear Braces – Lakewood, CO

Does Wearing Invisalign Aligners Hurt?

Since Invisalign aligners don’t have any metal wires and brackets, you can expect a much more comfortable straightening experience when compared to traditional braces. However, any orthodontic issue is bound to cause some discomfort as it shifts your teeth into position, and that includes Invisalign. It’s normal to experience some soreness when first starting a new set of aligners, but it should be minimal and easy to manage. Generally, it will fade away on its own within a few days, but you can help it along by taking over-the-counter pain relievers as directed or applying an ice pack.

What Foods Do I Need to Avoid During My Invisalign Treatment?

Unlike metal braces that require you to adhere to a restricted diet, you don’t have to give up any of your favorite foods or drinks during your Invisalign treatment! Just take your aligners out, enjoy your meal, snack, or beverage, and then give your teeth a quick brush before popping your aligners back into place. Remember, whenever you’re not wearing your aligners, they should be stored in their case so you don’t accidentally leave them behind or throw them away!

How Long Do I Need to Wear My Aligners for Every Day?

It might seem obvious, but your aligners only work if you wear them. They’re specifically designed to place different amounts of pressure in just the right places of your mouth. The constant gentle pressure is what helps move them into place and stay there. If you don’t wear your aligners enough, your teeth may begin to shift out of position, which could increase the length and cost of your treatment! So be sure you’re wearing your aligners for 20-22 hours every single day.

How Are Invisalign Aligners Cleaned?

Thanks to their removable nature, Invisalign aligners make it easy to keep your smile clean throughout your treatment. Instead of awkwardly trying to brush and floss around metal wires and brackets, you can simply take out your Invisalign aligners and clean your teeth just as easily as you always have. It’s important to keep your aligners clean as well so they don’t become discolored. Make sure to rinse them off every morning and night and brush them gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. There are also plenty of Invisalign cleaning systems and solutions that can help keep your smile fresh and sparkling.

Can I Get Invisalign If I’ve Had Metal Braces Before?

Just because you had metal braces earlier in life doesn’t automatically mean that your teeth are still straight now, especially if you neglected to wear your retainer. Thankfully, Invisalign is a great choice for anyone facing mild to moderate orthodontic issues. There’s a good chance that it can help you regain your beautifully straight smile! However, you’ll need to come in for a consultation to ensure that Invisalign is the most effective way to help you get the results you’re looking for.

It’s never been easier to get a straighter smile! Give us a call today to schedule your consultation and discover if Invisalign is right for you.

Can I Drink Coffee with Invisalign?

You can! However, there is a “but;” you need to remove your aligners first. If you don’t, then your trays will quickly discolor. You may even be vulnerable to enamel erosion since any lingering residue will be trapped against your teeth for hours on end (or until the next time you brush your teeth). Simply put, the idea that you can simply use a straw is a myth. In reality, the only beverage you can drink with your aligners in is plain water.

How Can I Ease New Aligner Discomfort?

Sometimes, just knowing that the discomfort is actually a good thing is helpful enough. After all, it means that your teeth are moving in the right direction! If you’re struggling with more significant soreness, however, you may be looking for something a bit more powerful. First, we recommend switching to each new set of trays at night. That way, you sleep through the time when your teeth are moving the most. It’s also helpful to sip on cool water, place a cold compress against the outside of your cheek, avoid crunchy foods, and take an OTC pain reliever.

What Should I Do If I Lose an Aligner?

First, do your best to retrace your steps. Remember, your aligners may have fallen into a random crevice, like the space between your couch cushions, so be very careful in this process. Similarly, you may have left them in a spot you might not think to look, like the refrigerator, the pockets of the pants you wore earlier, or the center console in your car.

If you’ve done your best to find your aligners but aren’t having any luck, then call our Lakewood dental office. From there, we can determine how to proceed in a way that creates little-to-no delay to your treatment plan.

What Happens After My Invisalign Treatment?

At the end of your Invisalign treatment, we’ll remove any attachments you have, take the “after” photos, and give you your retainer. Of course, we will also give you detailed instructions on how often to wear it and how to take care of it so it lasts as long as possible.

Remember, roughly 50% of patients experience orthodontic relapse, and wearing your retainer will significantly reduce the chances of that happening to you. So, make sure to wear it consistently!

Who Isn’t a Candidate for Invisalign?

Naturally, clear aligner treatment isn’t for everyone. One example is if your case of malocclusion is especially complex or severe. Similarly, any existing oral health issues – from a small cavity to advanced gum disease – need to be treated before getting braces. At your initial consultation, we will assess your oral health and existing orthodontic concerns to determine if you’re a good candidate.