Invisalign clear aligners have set the gold standard for modern orthodontia. However, there are a few things that you need to know before you get started on your Invisalign journey.
At Austin Laser Dentist, Dr. Helen Ragsdale and her knowledgeable team prioritize patient education for fully-informed consent. That’s why Dr. Ragsdale works tirelessly to give you all the tools and information you need for optimal oral health.
Getting started on the Invisalign process is easy! Just call 512-346-4690 to schedule your consultation or book an appointment here. But, if you want more information about Invisalign, then keep reading. We’ll give you five things you should know first.
#1 – Invisalign is very popular–for good reason!
Since its inception in 1997, Invisalign has been an extremely popular smile-correcting treatment. In fact, approximately 12 million people in the U.S. are currently benefiting from this modern orthodontic treatment.
Invisalign remains one of the most popular clear-aligner systems available to patients–and for good reason! Dental professionals who offer Invisalign treatments use only top-tier materials, techniques, and technology to create highly-personalized treatment plans and aligners. So, patients can feel confident that they are getting the best treatment with Invisalign.
#2 – You must wear your aligners for at least 20-22 hours a day.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are completely removable. This offers patients more flexibility with eating and oral hygiene. However, this means that patients must take the initiative to wear their aligners for the prescribed amount of time daily.
Patients should wear their clear aligners for 20-22 hours a day to see their desired results in their preferred timeline. If patients neglect to wear their aligners for the recommended time, then they risk prolonging their treatment. Furthermore, they may encounter issues along their carefully-planned treatment schedule if they aren’t wearing their aligners regularly.
#3 – Eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing are a breeze with Invisalign!
Because Invisalign is removable, patients can eat and care for their oral hygiene much easier compared to metal braces. For example, patients with Invisalign don’t have to worry as much about:
- -Using special oral hygiene products, like interdental flossers
- -Developing plaque or white spots around the metal brackets of traditional braces
- -Dietary restrictions, such as avoiding hard, sticky, or crunchy foods
#4 – You must clean your aligners every day.
Although brushing and flossing are much easier with Invisalign, patients will have to implement some additional steps into their oral hygiene routine. For example, patients with Invisalign should:
- -Brush their teeth every time they eat
- -Rinse their aligners every time they eat
- -Brush their aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste daily
However, these additional steps quickly become an easy part of patients’ regular routine. And, here’s a little pro tip: drink plenty of water! Water helps rinse away some of the nearly 6 billion bacteria that can accumulate in our mouths.
#5 – Even kids can use Invisalign!
Traditionally, dental professionals have recommended Invisalign for appearance-conscious adults and teens. However, Invisalign® First is a specially-designed orthodontic treatment for little smiles between the ages of 6 and 10.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should start receiving orthodontic treatment no later than 7 years of age. Early Invisalign treatments don’t just straighten children’s smiles–they also prevent further painful, complicated dental issues from occurring later in their development.
Invisalign in Austin, TX
If you’re ready to get the smile you’ve always wanted, then it’s time to schedule your consultation with Dr. Helen Ragsdale. She and her team will guide you along every step of your treatment journey. So, get started today by calling 512-346-4690 or booking online here.
