Cosmetic Dentistry, Invisible Orthodontics, Orthodontics
Invisible Orthodontics: Frequently asked questions
Are you thinking about making your smile more beautiful with clear aligners? Don’t hesitate any longer! After a brief and relatively simple process for you, you will enjoy the result and wonder why… you delayed it so long!
Here we answer in detail the most frequently asked questions, which will help you make the decision today!
How many hours should I wear the aligners in my mouth?
The aligners must be worn daily for 22 hours/day. They are removed only for eating and brushing our teeth. This way, each aligner remains in our mouth long enough to move our teeth to the position it has been programmed for.
How long does a treatment with clear aligners last?
A treatment with Invisible Orthodontic aligners can last from just a few months (2 or 3) up to 2 years. The duration of each case is different and depends on many factors, such as the orthodontic irregularity we want to correct, and therefore the tooth movements that need to be carried out, the age and cooperation of the patient, etc.
Will I be in pain during treatment?
Most people feel tooth sensitivity for a few days after starting each new stage. This is normal. It is an indication that the aligners are fulfilling their purpose, which is to move your teeth to their final position. This sensitivity will gradually subside in 1-2 days, after placing the next aligner in the series. If this does not happen, call your doctor immediately.
Will using the aligners affect my speech?
As with all orthodontic treatments, aligners may temporarily affect your speech and you may have a slight lisp for 1-2 days. However, as your tongue gets used to the presence of the aligners in your mouth, the lisp or any slight speech impediment caused by your aligners should disappear.
Are there restrictions on what I can eat?
Generally, no. Unlike conventional orthodontic appliances, you can usually eat and drink whatever you want, because you remove your aligners when you eat. So, you don’t need to limit the consumption of any of your favorite foods and snacks, unless you receive different instructions from your doctor.
Can I drink hot or cold beverages while wearing the aligners?
Yes! We only recommend that you do not drink very hot beverages while wearing your aligners, in order to avoid alteration of the aligner material.
Can I chew gum when wearing the aligners?
NO. Gum will stick to the aligners. We recommend that you remove your aligners for all meals and snacks.
Will smoking stain the aligners?
We discourage the use of tobacco while wearing the aligners because they may become discolored.
What should I do if the new aligner doesn’t fit my teeth?
It is normal for there to be small discrepancies between the new aligner and the current position of the tooth, as the teeth need time to adjust to the new aligner position. If significant problems arise with the aligner fit, notify your doctor.
Why do some of my aligners have bumps or grooves on them?
Depending on the specific treatment you are following, some movements may require the use of “attachments”, so that the aligner holds the teeth. These bumps or wells are the points where the aligner holds the attachment that the doctor places on your teeth. Attachments are usually small pieces of resin (the material of white fillings) that the orthodontist places on your teeth. These attachments are held by the bumps on your aligners. The grooves are thin indentations in your aligners. Your doctor will use one or both of these features to achieve the desired movement.
What happens if I lose or break an aligner?
If you lose an aligner or it breaks, you should notify your doctor immediately. Your doctor will probably advise you to start wearing the previous or next set of aligners immediately. There is the option of ordering a new set of aligners to replace the one you lost, which will be delivered to you in a few days.
What happens if I lose or break an attachment?
If you lose an attachment or it breaks, you should notify your doctor immediately.
And if the above didn’t cover you or you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. Remember that the first visit to our offices is free! We would be happy to meet you in person!