Invisalign is a flexible, nearly invisible way to straighten your teeth without the look or feel of braces.
It fits easily into your daily routine, letting you eat what you love and smile with confidence throughout treatment. At Elite Dental Arts in Millburn, NJ, our team is here to answer your most common questions so you can feel informed before getting started. Schedule your Invisalign consultation today and take the first step toward a straighter, more confident smile!
How Long Do I Wear Aligners Each Day?
Invisalign aligners work best when worn consistently throughout the day. The more regularly you wear them, the more effective your results will be. It’s a small commitment that makes a big impact.
- Wear them most of the day: Aligners need to be worn 20 to 22 hours every day to guide tooth movement properly.
- Remove only when needed: Take them out for meals, brushing, flossing, and drinking anything besides water.
- Stick to your schedule: Staying consistent helps ensure each aligner works as intended.
Can I Eat With Invisalign® In?
While Invisalign lets you enjoy your usual diet, you’ll need to remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. This keeps them from getting damaged and helps maintain good oral hygiene. Once you adjust to the routine, it becomes second nature.
- Always remove before meals: Chewing with aligners in can lead to cracks, warping, or food debris buildup.
- Eat what you want: Enjoy crunchy, sticky, or chewy foods without the restrictions that come with braces.
- Brush before reinserting: Keeps your aligners clear and helps avoid plaque or staining buildup.
What Happens If I Lose A Tray?
Losing a tray doesn’t mean your treatment is derailed. A quick call to your dental care provider can get things back on track with minimal disruption. Acting fast is key.
- Call the office right away: Informing your provider quickly helps avoid gaps in treatment.
- Wear the previous tray: This can prevent teeth from shifting while waiting for next steps.
- Order a replacement: A new aligner can usually be made and delivered quickly to resume treatment.
Will Invisalign® Affect My Speech?
You might notice a slight change in the way you speak when you first begin wearing aligners. Most people adjust within a few days as their tongue and mouth adapt to the trays. It’s usually a temporary experience.
- Mild lisp is normal: Certain sounds may feel tricky at first, but often improve quickly.
- Practice helps: Reading aloud or repeating common words can help your tongue adapt.
- Speech improves fast: Most patients notice clear speech returning within a few days.
Is Invisalign® Painful?
Invisalign isn’t typically painful, but you may feel some pressure when starting a new set of aligners. That’s a normal sign that the trays are doing their job. The pressure usually fades quickly as your mouth adjusts.
- Mild pressure is expected: Most patients describe it as tightness rather than discomfort.
- Smooth and comfortable: The trays are custom-molded to minimize rubbing or irritation.
- Less discomfort than braces: No wires or brackets mean fewer sore spots or emergency visits.
Know It Straight, No Compromises
Invisalign lets you straighten your teeth discreetly and comfortably, without the limitations of traditional braces. You’ll still enjoy your favorite meals, speak confidently, and smile throughout the entire process. At Elite Dental Arts in Millburn, NJ, our team is here to guide your clear aligner journey from start to finish with expert care. Call today to schedule your consultation and let’s get your smile on the right track!