Okemos, Lansing, East Lansing MI
Invisalign has revolutionized the world of orthodontic dentistry, offering a discreet, comfortable and convenient way to straighten your teeth without the awkwardness or uncomfortableness of traditional metal braces. If you’re considering Invisalign to straighten your teeth, our Invisalign dentist in Okemos, Dr. Christine Tenaglia, has compiled the following important facts that you should know:
Customized treatment plans
One of the key advantages of Invisalign is its customized treatment approach. During your initial exam, Dr. Tenaglia will take X-rays and digital scans of your mouth and teeth to create a 3D model of your mouth. This allows the Invisalign aligner trays to be custom-made to fit your teeth snuggly and comfortably. This personalized approach ensures optimal comfort and effectiveness throughout your treatment.
Comfortable, removable aligner trays
Unlike traditional braces, which are fixed to your teeth for the duration of treatment, the clear, plastic Invisalign aligner trays can be removed for brushing, flossing, eating and drinking anything other than water. Patients must wear aligners for at least 20-22 hours a day for best results; otherwise, treatment time may be prolonged.
Aligner changes
Unlike traditional metal braces that require adjustments, Invisalign features a series of aligners, each one slightly different from the last to gradually shift the teeth into the proper position. Each set of aligners is usually worn a week or two before moving on to the next set. Our Invisalign dentist in Lansing recommends keeping old sets just in case progress stalls. In this rare case, it will help to go back to a previous set of aligner trays.
Minimal discomfort
While the metal brackets and wires of traditional metal braces are notorious for causing discomfort, Invisalign aligners are made from smooth, tooth-hugging plastic. It’s normal to experience slight discomfort or pressure when starting a new aligner set, but this feeling is mild and temporary and can be alleviated with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Maintaining oral hygiene
Oral hygiene practices don’t change with Invisalign. The aligners are removable so you can brush and floss as usual. Failure to maintain good oral hygiene can lead to plaque buildup, tooth decay and gum disease. Our dentist will explain how to clean your aligners to prevent bacterial growth and odors.
Lifestyle adjustments
Avoid consuming sugary or acidic foods and beverages that can stain or damage your aligners. Smoking while wearing aligners is not recommended because it can cause discoloration. If you play sports or participate in activities that require a mouthguard, you may need to remove your aligners during these times to wear a protective mouthguard instead.
Follow-up appointments
Be sure to attend all of your regular follow-up appointments with our Invisalign dentist office in East Lansing. During these appointments, we will assess your progress, make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan and provide you with additional sets of aligners.
Post-treatment retainers
Once your Invisalign treatment is complete and your teeth have been straightened to your satisfaction, we may recommend wearing retainers to maintain your results. Retainers help prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original position and are typically worn at night while sleeping.
Invisalign in East Lansing and Okemos, Michigan
Invisalign is a convenient, comfortable, discreet and highly effective solution for straightening teeth. If you’re considering Invisalign, give us a call at Tenaglia Smiles, (517) 940-8684, or reach out to us online today.