Invisalign: What to Expect
From the first consultation to your retainer, here is how clear aligner treatment usually goes.
Invisalign straightens teeth with a series of clear, removable aligners. At Your Olathe Dentist in Olathe, we want you to know what the months ahead look like before you start, so there are no surprises.
Starting With a Consultation
The first step is a visit with Dr. Tony to talk about what you would like to change, whether that is crowding, gaps, or teeth that have shifted over the years.
He will examine your teeth and gums and take records, such as digital X-rays, photos and impressions, to see whether Invisalign is a good fit. Any decay or gum problems are usually treated before aligners begin.
If aligners are right for you, your custom trays are planned from those records. Read more about Invisalign at our office, or ask about insurance and payment options at your consultation.
Wearing Your Aligners
Aligners only work while they are in your mouth. The commonly cited guideline is about 20 to 22 hours a day, which means you take them out to eat, to drink anything other than plain water, and to brush and floss.
That is the biggest adjustment for most people. Snacking all day gets harder, and it helps to carry a case so the trays do not end up wrapped in a napkin and thrown away. Brush, or at least rinse, before putting them back in so food is not trapped against your teeth.
Switching Trays and Check-Ins
Each set of aligners moves your teeth a small amount. You switch to the next set on the schedule your dentist gives you, often every week or two.
You will also come in for check-ins so Dr. Tony can see how your teeth are tracking and give you your next sets. If a tooth is not moving as planned, the plan can be adjusted.
Some patients need small tooth-colored bumps, called attachments, bonded to certain teeth. They give the aligners something to grip so they can move those teeth more effectively, and they are removed when treatment is finished.
Soreness and Speech
It is common to feel pressure or mild soreness for a day or two after switching to a new set. That usually means the aligners are doing their job. Many people switch trays at bedtime so the first few hours pass while they sleep.
Softer foods can help on those days, and an over-the-counter pain reliever, taken as directed, can take the edge off.
Some patients notice a slight lisp during the first few days with aligners. It usually fades as your tongue gets used to them. If an edge rubs your cheek or tongue, let us know and we will take a look.
Keeping Aligners Clean
Rinse your aligners whenever you take them out, and brush them gently with a soft toothbrush and cool or lukewarm water. Hot water can warp the plastic.
Avoid wearing them while you drink coffee, tea, soda or anything colored or sweet, since these can stain the trays and hold sugar against your teeth. Keep them in their case whenever they are out of your mouth.
After Treatment: Retainers
When you finish your last aligner, your teeth still tend to drift back toward where they started. A retainer holds them in their new position.
Your dentist will recommend the type of retainer and how often to wear it. Many people wear one full time at first, then only at night. Wearing it as directed is what protects your results over the long run.
To find out if Invisalign is right for you, call (913) 780-0011 or use the contact form.
Book an Invisalign Consultation
We will look at your smile, answer your questions, and tell you honestly whether aligners are a good fit.