It’s common for patients to think about what their teeth will look like after Invisalign treatment is complete – and forget to envision what the actual treatment will look, feel, and be like. Having an idea of what’s to come can help you get through that unusual, unexpected first day of Invisalign.
Know That Things Will Feel Weird
You now have thin, clear plastic trays hugging your teeth – and it’s not a soft hug. Invisalign is firm and the aligners are too – they have to be to move your tooth roots and crowns into their new positions. You’ll find yourself running your tongue over your teeth and aligners many times at the start, especially if you’re sporting attachments too, which will add some bumps to your trays.
Expect to Experience Some Discomfort
Invisalign is going to cause discomfort from time to time, but the worst of it will come on that very first day when you don’t know what to expect. It takes effort and pressure to move teeth into new positions – so pain and discomfort are not unusual. It’s a feeling you want to have because it means the treatment is working and, in a few days, it will subside to a dull ache.
Anticipate That You Will Look a Little Different
Invisalign as an orthodontic treatment does not tremendously alter your appearance. That’s one of the biggest draws of the treatment, after all – to be able to wear clear, discreet aligners on your teeth. But when you look in the mirror and smile at yourself, you will feel like there are huge foreign objects taking up space in your mouth, to your eyes anyway. You will quickly get used to the new you with Invisalign, and when that happens your confidence will click into gear and you will feel comfortable around others while you’re wearing Invisalign.
Remind Yourself That It’s Worth It
Buyer’s remorse isn’t uncommon when it comes to aligning your teeth. Many new wearers of Invisalign wish they could change their mind, forget about the treatment, not have to deal with this nonsense. Remember, there is only one first day to get through – every day after that is easier until you’re used to wearing the trays, and loving how your teeth are straightening up.
Be Patient
Just like anything else new, Invisalign is an adjustment – in feel, looks, and function. The only major changes this treatment will make to your life, though, are that you must brush your teeth more often and take out the trays for meals and snacks. Otherwise you will look and act and be the same person – just with better teeth as time goes on.
Stay Positive
The first set of Invisalign trays will be the toughest ones for you to weather as you adjust to the odd sensation of something attached to your teeth. Whether you’re wearing Invisalign Teen or Invisalign for adults, the process is the same – and you aren’t stuck with uncomfortable brackets and wires attached to your teeth.
You can make it through Invisalign – treatment only takes about a year, sometimes less. Find out if you’re a good candidate by scheduling a consultation with your certified Invisalign provider at Red Bank Dentistry in Red Bank, NJ.
