Truth 1: Invisalign Aligners are virtually invisible

Compared to traditional metal braces or clear braces, Invisalign treatment uses aligners instead of braces and they are virtually invisible. Whilst lingual braces can be placed on the inside of the teeth, these are often more uncomfortable than traditional braces and don’t have the benefits or comfort of Invisalign.

Truth 2: Tooth brushing is extremely important

You will need to brush after every meal to reduce the risk of enamel demineralization (white spots) or decay throughout the treatment period. Brushing and flossing needs to be excellent in order to remove food and plaque to ensure it doesn’t become trapped between teeth and aligners. We recommend that you take a toothbrush to school or work.

Truth 3: Aligners need to be worn 22hr per day

One of the most attractive features of Invisalign is that they are removable. This means that you remove them for eating, drinking and tooth brushing. You can also remove them for that special occasion. However, for best possible result, you will need to keep your aligners in for 22 hours or more each day. Failing to wear your aligners for the prescribed time can result in a longer treatment time or a compromised result as your teeth may not move as planned.

Truth 4: Correct cleaning of your aligners

Don’t brush your aligners with toothpaste. The abrasive agents found in toothpastes can scratch your aligners leaving them prone to bacteria buildup that can leave a bad smell. Instead, clean your aligners with soap, mild detergent or just brush them with cold water and a soft toothbrush. Failing to do so can result in your aligners becoming yellow and murky, which probably isn’t the look you’re going for when you decided on a clear brace treatment.

Truth 5: Your aligners can stain

Drinks like red wine, tea and coffee have been shown to stain your aligners. If you happen to consume these drinks, be sure to clean your teeth thoroughly before wearing your aligners.

Truth 6: Visiting a specialist orthodontist will ensure a better result

As Invisalign treatment is still orthodontic treatment, a registered specialist orthodontist has the training and experience to ensure you achieve the optimum result with your Invisalign. Invisalign has a number of products including Invisalign Full, Teen, Light and i7. Our Orthodontist will be able to inform you which product is best for you.

Truth 7: Sometimes braces are still better

Invisalign can treat most of the common orthodontic problems such as crowding, small overbites, underbites or spacing.  Invisalign does have certain limitations and is not considered the best treatment for handling complex orthodontic cases such as severe deep overbites or severely rotated teeth. You should also talk to an orthodontist to get a better idea about your suitability for treatment and if braces would be a better option.

Truth 8: You don’t need to wear every aligner for 2 weeks

In the past, Invisalign normally recommends wearing aligners for 2 weeks each before changing aligners. For simple treatments requiring only simple tooth movement, Invisalign has advised that aligners can be changed every 7-10 days. This means that you will achieve that beautiful smile sooner! Be sure to check with your orthodontist first as it’s not recommended for everyone and is dependent on the complexity of the tooth movement needed.