Invisalign is a well-liked option for people who want to straighten their teeth without using traditional metal braces. They are clear, removable aligners that are supposed to be more convenient and less noticeable than braces.
However, while Invisalign in NW Calgary has many benefits, it can also be pretty annoying at times. Let’s dive into the details to understand why some people find Invisalign bothersome.
What is Invisalign?
First, let’s talk a bit about Invisalign. Invisalign aligners are made from a clear plastic material that fits over your teeth. They work by slowly shifting your teeth into the desired position. Every few weeks, you get a new set of aligners that continue to shift your teeth until they are perfectly aligned.
The Annoying Parts of Wearing Invisalign
Now, let’s look at the reasons why Invisalign can be annoying.
Taking Them In and Out
One of the biggest annoyances is having to take the aligners in and out of your mouth. You need to remove them every time you eat or drink anything other than water. It can be a hassle, especially if you’re out in public or at school. Imagine having to excuse yourself from lunch with friends to take out your aligners.
Cleaning the Aligners
Cleaning Invisalign aligners can also be a pain. You have to brush and rinse them every time you take them out before putting them back in. If you clean them properly, they can start to smell good or get stained. It means carrying a toothbrush and toothpaste with you wherever you go, which can be quite inconvenient.
Discomfort and Soreness
When you switch to a new set of aligners, your teeth can feel sore. It is because the new aligners are tighter and are pushing your teeth into a new position. This soreness can make it uncomfortable to eat or talk for a few days. It’s like the feeling you get after getting braces tightened.
Talking with a Lisp
At the beginning of the treatment, or when you switch to a new set of aligners, you might develop a slight lisp. This is because the aligners take up space in your mouth and can affect how your tongue moves. While most people get used to it after a while, it can be very uncomfortable, especially if you have to speak in front of a group.
Wearing Them for 22 Hours a Day
After getting Invisalign near you, you need to wear the aligners for at least 22 hours a day to make them work effectively. It means you only have two hours to eat, drink, brush your teeth, and clean your aligners.
Keeping track of time can be stressful, and you might feel rushed to finish meals or skip snacks altogether. If you don’t wear them enough, it can ensure your treatment is successful.
Attachments on Teeth
Sometimes, small attachments are put on your teeth to help the aligners grip better and move your teeth more effectively. These attachments are tooth-coloured, but they can still be noticeable and feel strange. They can make your teeth look a bit bumpy and can catch on the aligners, making it harder to take them out.
Cost and Responsibility
Invisalign is often more expensive than traditional braces. This can be a burden for families. Additionally, you have to be very responsible in making sure you wear the aligners as instructed by the dentist near you. If you lose them or don’t wear them enough, it can extend the treatment time and increase costs.
How to Cope Up with the Annoyances
Even though Invisalign can be annoying, there are ways to cope with the problems.
Establish a Routine
Having a routine can help make the process easier. Brush your teeth and clean your aligners at the same time each day. This will help you remember to keep everything clean and reduce the risk of forgetting.
Use a Carrying Case
Always carry a case for your aligners. This will prevent you from losing them or accidentally throwing them away. It also keeps them clean when you’re not wearing them.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water can help reduce dryness and bad breath that might come with wearing aligners. It’s also one of the few things you can consume without having to remove your aligners.
Pain Relief
If you experience soreness, try eating softer foods until the discomfort goes away. Over-the-counter pain relief can also help manage the pain.
Practice Speaking
If you have a lisp, practice speaking out loud when you’re alone. Reading aloud can help you get used to the way the aligners feel in your mouth and improve your speech over time.
Set Alarms
Set alarms on your phone to remind you to put your aligners back on after meals. This will help you stick to the 22-hour rule without feeling stressed.
Last Thoughts
Invisalign can be a great way to achieve a beautiful smile without the hassle of traditional braces. However, it does come with its own set of annoyances. But with a bit of preparation and a good routine, you can manage these annoyances and make your Invisalign journey smoother. Remember, the end result—a straight, beautiful smile—is worth the temporary inconveniences.
If you have any second thoughts about Invisalign, you should consult our in-house dentist in NW Calgary at Beddington Dental Clinic. We help everyone by sharing dental-related information transparently so that an individual (no matter whether our patient or not) can make a decision in favour of themselves.