7 Things You Should Consider Before Getting Invisalign Braces
Invisalign braces are incredible for many reasons. For many adults who don’t want to walk around with the look of metal braces, Invisalign tends to be a great alternative.
However, before you jump on the Invisalign braces bandwagon, there are a few things you’ll want to consider.
So start with the below six tips you should pay attention to before getting your own Invisalign braces.
Things To Know Before Getting Invisalign Braces
Here are the most important things to consider before you get your Invisalign braces:
1. Don’t Lose Them
If you’re someone who tends to be careless and forgetful, you might want to rethink the idea of Invisalign braces. They cost a lot of money to replace.
If you have the budget to replace them on a regular basis, go for it. Just understand that you’ll want to hold on to your aligners for dear life.
Because they are removable, a lot of people take them off when it’s time to eat. However, they forget to put them back on.
You don’t want to be that person rummaging through the local eatery’s garbage bin for your aligners so do what you must hold onto them.
If you know you’ll lose them, it’s probably not a good idea to get them.
2. It’ll Impact Your Speech
Invisalign braces take some getting used to. After all, these are foreign objects in your mouth. Your mouth has to figure out how to operate with this new contraption inside.
You use your mouth to communicate with people on a daily basis. Because you’ll have the aligners in while you’re communicating with others, this will probably impact your ability to speak clearly for a while.
You might have a temporary lisp, which is totally normal. For some people, the speech impediment disappears once they get used to the aligners. For others, the speech impediment stays for the entire time.
3. You’ll Need To Stay On Top Of Changing The Aligners
Dentists agree that for some people, the aligners need to be changed every few weeks. It all depends on the individual and what your dentist recommends.
Realize the commitment involved. You can’t get aligners once and keep them in for an entire year.
This type of process involves frequent, timely visits. You have to stick with the schedule in order to see your results.
If you have a really busy schedule, realize that you can’t send in your assistant to take care of the job for you. This is something you need to show up for on your own.
Stay committed to the dental visits in order to make sure the results are achieved.
4. Thorough Cleanings After Each Meal Are Mandatory
Most people floss and brush their teeth in the mornings and evenings. There are plenty of people who skip lunchtime cleaning.
However, this isn’t possible with those who have Invisalign braces. In fact, you’ll need to thoroughly deep clean your teeth after every meal.
If you have food stuck in your teeth and place the aligners on top of the dirt, the dirt gets impacted into the mold. This will interfere with the smooth, straight look you’re desiring.
To give yourself a sense of ease, consider purchasing a small WaterPic system that’s portable. You’ll be able to clean those difficult places when you’re on the go.
5. You Have To Wear Them Consistently
If you’re someone who doesn’t do well with consistency, you’re going to run into trouble here. The aligners need to be worn the majority of the time. Don’t leave the house without putting them on.
Don’t take them off while you’re at your desk because they hurt. You have to keep them on, no matter what.
Aligners can be tricky because people like to take advantage of the fact that they are removable. However, the point of the aligners involves straightening your teeth. They can’t do the job if they’re sitting in your briefcase.
6. Understand The Financial Commitment
When you sit down with your dentist, take time to consider the financial details. You’ll have to run the numbers with your dentist to find out if insurance covers any part of the process.
You’ll also want to know how much you’ll need to save to make it happen. Realize that it is a financial investment, but it’s a worthwhile one.
7. Consider The Appeal Of The Look
The fact that you’ll be able to smile without anyone seeing metal braces is a major bonus for people.
Metal braces are very popular with young children. However, once adulthood hits, the look of metal braces isn’t quite as appealing.
If you want to forgo the look of an awkward stage for a few months or years, Invisalign braces are excellent to consider.