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As UK Dental Specialists, we want all our patients to have a smile they can be proud of and offer a choice of solutions to help achieve that. One of those solutions is Invisalign in St. Albans, a type of braces that has become increasingly popular in recent years. This is a guide for those considering these braces, exploring what they involve and how to get started, along with some detail on what life is like for the patient during treatment.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a particular orthodontic treatment that is a popular alternative to traditional braces. Also known as clear or invisible braces, it comes in the form of transparent trays (aligners) of super soft plastic that are worn as a covering over the teeth. Invisalign in St. Albans is similar in structure to a retainer or mouthguard.
Getting started
The first step in getting Invisalign in St. Albans is to make an appointment with us to find out about suitability for this treatment. If we decide to go ahead, then we then need to take a comprehensive record of the mouth that includes the exact position of each of the teeth. This record allows us to create aligners that are tailor made and fit the patient perfectly.
When the first set of aligners is issued, we show the patient how best to put them in and how to remove them. We also offer guidance and the opportunity to ask questions or discuss any concerns that the patient may have.
Does it hurt?
When the treatment begins, some patients experience a little discomfort as they get used to wearing their braces. There can also be some discomfort when the aligners are changed every couple of weeks or so. Fortunately, this is usually relatively minor and can be treated using over the counter painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen.
Taking care during treatment
It is important for the patient to take good care of their teeth and gums during treatment. This involves brushing in the morning and evening and after eating before replacing the braces. Brushing after meals is very important because food can become trapped between the teeth and the braces, and this can cause decay and deterioration of the teeth.
Eating and drinking with Invisalign
It is essential to take the braces out for mealtimes, as they are not designed to be worn while eating. Meals and snacks should be consumed within a two-hour period each day, with the patient wearing the aligners the rest of the time. This may mean limiting the amount of food that can be eaten, especially if the patient is used to having regular snacks.
The only beverage that should be consumed while wearing invisible braces is water. Any other drinks, such as juices, fizzy drinks, tea, coffee and alcoholic drinks should be reserved for mealtimes when the aligners have been removed. This is important as drinks other than water can stain the braces and mean that they are no longer invisible.