Having a perfectly straight smile is everyone’s dream look. If you’re considering getting orthodontic treatment, then you’re probably going for Invisalign braces. Despite all the impressive benefits of these clear aligners, there are a few important factors you should consider before jumping into treatment. Keep reading to learn five important questions about Invisalign you should ask before pursuing it.

Question #1: Does the Invisalign Treatment Hurt?

Invisalign doesn’t have sharp wires or brackets, so it’s more comfortable traditional braces. It also provides a smooth texture and won’t cause soft tissue irritation. However, it’s common to feel discomfort when you begin Invisalign and every time you switch to a new set of aligners. Luckily, this soreness should be mild and easy to manage with basic home remedies.

Question #2: How Often Do I Have to Wear Invisalign Aligners?

Although your clear aligners will be removeable, it is recommended that you wear your Invisalign trays for 20-22 hours per day for the quickest results. This means you’ll only remove them whenever you eat, drink, or need to clean them. Whenever you aren’t wearing your aligners, your teeth will actively try to return to their original positions.

Question #3: How Long Does the Invisalign Treatment Usually Take?

On average, Invisalign treatment can take about 12 months to complete—a lot faster than traditional braces! However, there are plenty of factors for why treatment plans sometimes vary in their time frame. Whether you have minor crowded teeth or a severely misaligned smile, the time it’ll take to finish your procedure will depend on your situation.

Question #4: If My Aligners are Staining, What Can I Do About It?

While Invisalign offers nearly undetectable aligners, they are still vulnerable to discoloration. Several reasons they can become stained include drinking dark beverages, smoking, and not cleaning them as often as necessary. By brushing your aligners and teeth each time you put your Invisalign back in after eating, you can ensure they remain debris-free.

Question #5: Will Invisalign Affect How I Speak?

At first, you’ll likely have a slight change in speech since you won’t be accustomed to wearing the trays just yet. Luckily, this only lasts about a week, as your tongue will gradually learn to pronounce certain sounds again with your aligners on.

Of course, you’re free to ask your dentist more questions about Invisalign if you have other concerns. As long as you feel comfortable with what you’ll expect from the treatment, you won’t have to worry about any surprises along the way!

About the Author

Dr. James Olsen earned his dental degree from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. As a proud member the American and Michigan Dental Associations, he’s dedicated to helping you perfect and maintain a healthy smile. With a wide collection of dental treatments, he also offers Invisalign treatment for straightening your teeth. If you have more questions about Invisalign, visit his website or call (734) 996-0200.