Invisalign is an innovative orthodontic treatment that offers patients a transparent and discreet way to straighten their teeth.
The Invisalign system utilises custom-made, clear aligners worn over the teeth to gently move teeth into their desired position. By gradually shifting the teeth into place, Invisalign can effectively address dental misalignment issues such as overcrowding, gapped teeth, and crossbites.
While Invisalign is an effective treatment option for achieving straighter teeth, patients must follow the proper preparation steps to achieve the desired outcome.
From choosing the right dentist to understanding what is involved in Invisalign treatment, here we provide an ultimate guide on how to prepare for Invisalign treatment so you can get that healthy, straight smile you’ve always wanted!
Content Navigation
- 1 Summary of the Content
- 2 Why Is It Important to Prepare For Invisalign Treatment
- 3 Tips on How to Prepare For Invisalign Treatment
- 4 Understand the Treatment Process
- 5 Make Necessary Lifestyle Changes
- 6 Stock Up on Essentials
- 7 Prepare for Initial Discomfort
- 8 Establish a Routine
- 9 Keep Your Aligners Clean
- 10 Attend Regular Check-Ups
- 11 Be Patient and Consistent
- 12 Prepare for Life After Invisalign
- 13 Cost of Invisalign
- 14 Final Thoughts
Summary of the Content
- Invisalign aligners are made of smooth and comfortable plastic, less likely to cause irritation or discomfort than traditional braces.
- Invisalign aligners are removable for easier cleaning and maintenance of oral hygiene, as well as for special occasions or when eating and drinking.
- Invisalign treatment can address misaligned teeth, overbite, underbite, and crossbite.
- Invisalign aligners can be custom-made to fit a patient’s unique orthodontic needs.
- Invisalign treatment usually requires fewer visits than traditional braces, which is convenient for those with busy schedules.
- The cost of Invisalign in Australia can range from $6,000 to $9,000 depending on the severity of the orthodontic issue, treatment duration, and the orthodontist’s experience.
- Some health funds may help reduce out-of-pocket costs for patients.
- Financing options are offered to make Invisalign treatment more affordable.
Why Is It Important to Prepare For Invisalign Treatment
Proper preparation for Invisalign treatment is important to get the most out of your dental experience. Here are a few reasons why preparation is key:
- Understanding the Process:
Invisalign treatment involves a series of aligners that are changed every two weeks. It’s important to understand the process, how long it will take, and what to expect during treatment. - Adjusting to Lifestyle Changes:
Wearing Invisalign aligners requires some lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding certain foods and drinks and wearing the aligners for at least 20-22 hours per day. Preparing for these changes can help make the adjustment period smoother and more successful. - Keeping Up With Oral Hygiene:
During Invisalign treatment, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Preparing for this by establishing good oral hygiene habits before treatment can help ensure that you continue to maintain good oral health throughout the treatment process. - Understanding the Cost and Health Fund Coverage:
Invisalign treatment can be costly, so it’s important to understand the cost of treatment and whether your health fund will cover any portion of the cost. Preparing for the financial aspect of treatment can help you make informed decisions about your treatment options.
Tips on How to Prepare For Invisalign Treatment
Preparing for Invisalign treatment can help ensure that the process runs smoothly and effectively. Here are some tips on how to prepare for Invisalign treatment to achieve your desired results:
Choose the Right Invisalign Provider
If you’re considering Invisalign, opting for the ideal provider is vital. Before making any commitments, review and select a qualified dentist who can deliver high-quality results in your desired timeframe. To make this process seamless, follow these steps:
- Research Invisalign providers in your area.
- Ask for referrals from family and friends.
- Read online reviews of Invisalign providers and check before-and-after photos.
- Check if the provider is certified by Invisalign and has experience with Invisalign cases like yours.
- Confirm that the Invisalign provider takes your health fund or offers financing options if necessary.
Schedule a Consultation
Now that you’ve selected your Invisalign provider, the next step is to schedule a consultation. Most providers accept appointments through their website or by phone. Take advantage of this time and ask any questions or concerns you have with the staff before moving forward – don’t forget to inquire about preparations before your initial meeting!
Have a Dental Health Assessment
During your Invisalign consultation, the dentist will assess your oral health, dental history and medical history. The Invisalign process will also be explained, including how Invisalign works, how long it takes to see results and other information you should know before starting treatment. Your dentist will also take photos or X-rays for diagnostic purposes.
If you are experiencing any dental health issues like tooth decay or gum disease, your dentist will recommend that these be addressed before starting Invisalign.
Discuss Health Fund Coverage
Discussing Invisalign costs and health fund coverage with your Invisalign provider is important. Some cases may be covered by health funds, so explore all your options before deciding on a treatment plan.
Understand the Treatment Process
If you are considering Invisalign, you must know what to expect during the treatment. While Invisalign can be a convenient and effective alternative to traditional braces, it requires some lifestyle changes and careful attention to maintenance and care.
Here are some essential factors to remember when undergoing Invisalign treatment:
Duration of treatment
You must wear Invisalign for 20-22 hours daily, changing them every 1-2 weeks as directed by your dentist. The duration of Invisalign treatment can vary depending on several factors. This includes:
- Complexity and severity of the patient’s orthodontic problem
- The age of the patient
- The patient’s compliance with the treatment plan
Mild crooked or misaligned teeth cases can generally be addressed with Invisalign treatment in as little as six months. Meanwhile, more severe cases may require up to 18 months or more of treatment. Some patients may need additional orthodontic treatments before or after Invisalign. All this affects the overall treatment timeline.
Maintenance
Invisalign aligners require regular cleaning to prevent discolouration and odour. You can clean them by brushing them gently with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste, Invisalign cleaning crystals or Steraligner cleaning solution. It is also important to brush and floss your teeth to prevent plaque buildup on your teeth and aligners, which can lead to tooth decay.
Potential Complications
While it is generally considered a safe and effective treatment, some potential complications and side effects may arise from Invisalign. These include:
- Discomfort and pain:
As with any orthodontic treatment, patients may experience discomfort, pressure, or soreness when adjusting to new aligners or following adjustments. - Tooth sensitivity: Some patients may experience temporary tooth sensitivity to hot or cold substances during treatment.
- Speech difficulties:
Some individuals may initially have trouble speaking clearly, as they adjust to wearing the aligners. - Allergic reactions: Rarely, patients may experience an allergic reaction to the material used in the aligners, leading to irritation or swelling in the mouth.
- Gingival irritation: The aligners may cause irritation or inflammation of the gums, particularly if they are not properly trimmed or fitted.
Regular Dental Appointments
You must see your dentist regularly to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. These appointments usually occur every 6-8 weeks.
Retainers
After orthodontic treatment, teeth have a natural tendency to shift back towards their original positions. Wearing a retainer helps stabilise the teeth in their new positions, preventing them from relapsing.
Make Necessary Lifestyle Changes
Invisalign treatment involves the use of clear aligners to straighten teeth. Here are some lifestyle changes required for a successful Invisalign treatment:
- Wear aligners for 20-22 hours a day –
To keep your Invisalign treatment on track, it’s crucial to wear your aligners for the recommended amount of time daily. You must remove them only for eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth. - Clean aligners regularly –
Invisalign aligners require regular cleaning to prevent discolouration and odours. You should clean them daily by gently brushing them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. You may also use Invisalign cleaning crystals or aligner cleaning solutions like Steraligner. - Avoid food and drink that can stain aligners or teeth –
Coffee, tea, and red wine can stain your aligners and teeth. Avoiding these items or consuming them in moderation during Invisalign treatment is recommended. - Brush and floss regularly –
Proper oral hygiene is crucial during Invisalign treatment to prevent plaque buildup and tooth decay. Brush your teeth at least two times and floss every day to keep your teeth and gums healthy. - Be mindful of activities that could damage aligners –
Take out your aligners during activities that may cause damage, such as playing contact sports. You should also remember to remove the aligners before eating to avoid damaging them. - Quit or limit smoking
– Smoking can discolour aligners, lead to bad breath, and increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
Stock Up on Essentials
Preparing for your Invisalign treatment by stocking up on supplies can help smoothen the process. Here are some supplies you should consider having on hand before you start your treatment:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste –
A soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste are essential for maintaining good oral hygiene during Invisalign treatment. - Floss or Interdental Brushes –
Floss or interdental brushes can help clean the areas between teeth to prevent plaque buildup, which can cause tooth decay. - Aligner Case –
An aligner case is a small, portable container where you can safely store your aligners while eating or drinking. - Travel Toothbrush and Toothpaste –
If you’re on the go, a travel toothbrush and toothpaste can help you maintain your oral hygiene routine while away from home. - Pain Relief Medication –
Some patients may experience discomfort or soreness during the first few days of wearing new aligners. Over-the-counter pain medication can help alleviate discomfort. - Cleaning Supplies –
Invisalign aligners require regular cleaning to prevent discolouration and odours. Consider using Invisalign cleaning crystals or cleaning solutions such as Steraligner. - Chewies –
Chewies are small, soft plastic cylinders that help seat your aligners evenly on your teeth during Invisalign treatment. Biting down on chewies reduces discomfort. It also helps your aligners apply consistent pressure to your teeth.
Prepare for Initial Discomfort
The initial period of Invisalign treatment can be uncomfortable or even painful for some patients. This happens as the aligners are shifting the teeth into their new positions.
Here are some ways to help you prepare for the initial discomfort:
- Take over-the-counter pain relief medication –
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen and other over-the-counter medications can help alleviate discomfort or soreness during the initial period of Invisalign treatment. - Use orthodontic wax –
Apply orthodontic wax to areas where the aligners rub against the gums. Doing so reduces irritation and discomfort. - Start with soft foods –
Eating soft foods during the first few days of wearing the clear aligners can help reduce discomfort. This puts less pressure on the teeth and gums. - Follow the recommended wear time –
Wearing the aligners for the recommended time (20-22 hours per day) can help your treatment progress as planned. Doing so minimises the need for extending Invisalign treatment. - Maintain good oral hygiene –
Proper oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly, can help prevent discomfort and complications during Invisalign treatment.
It’s important to remember that some discomfort or soreness is normal during the initial period of Invisalign treatment, but it should improve over time as your teeth adjust to the aligners. If you have any concerns or experience prolonged discomfort, consult with your dentist.
Establish a Routine
Establishing a routine can help ensure a successful Invisalign treatment. Here are some tips for establishing a routine that works for you:
- Set reminders –
Use your phone or a calendar to remind you when to switch to a new set of aligners, when to brush and floss, and when to schedule your next dental appointment. - Keep your aligners with you –
Bring your aligner case and cleaning supplies wherever you go so you can clean your aligners and maintain proper oral hygiene throughout the day. - Plan meals and snacks –
Plan your meals and snacks around your Invisalign wear schedule. Avoid foods and drinks that can stain or damage your aligners. - Stay hydrated –
Drink plenty of water to keep your aligners and mouth hydrated, which can reduce discomfort and help prevent dry mouth. - Use your aligner case
– Always store your aligners in their case when not in use to prevent loss or damage. - Stick to your treatment plan – Follow your dentist’s instructions for proper care and maintenance of your aligners and any additional orthodontic treatments.
Keep Your Aligners Clean
Cleaning your Invisalign aligners regularly is essential to maintaining good oral hygiene and ensuring the success of your treatment. Here are some ways how to properly clean your Invisalign aligners:
- Brush your clear aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste –
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to remove food debris and plaque without causing any scratches. Rinse the aligners with lukewarm water. Don’t use hot water, as it can damage the aligners. - Use special cleaning crystals or solutions –
You can also use cleaning crystals designed specifically for Invisalign aligners. Dissolve the cleaning crystals in a cleaning tub and soak your aligners for the recommended time. - Rinse your aligners thoroughly –
After cleaning them, rinse them with lukewarm water to remove any remaining cleaning solution or residue. - Avoid coloured or scented liquid soaps –
Coloured or scented liquid soaps can discolour and damage your aligners. Use clear, mild liquid antibacterial soap for cleaning aligners. - Clean your aligners regularly –
Aim to clean your aligners at least once daily to prevent bacteria and odour buildup.
Attend Regular Check-Ups
Attending regular check-ups with your dentist after Invisalign treatment is essential for several reasons:
- Monitoring progress –
Regular check-ups with your dentist can help monitor your treatment to ensure that it is progressing as planned. - Addressing issues –
Regular check-ups can help address issues that arise during Invisalign treatment. This may include prolonged pain or poor fit of aligners. - Preventing future issues –
Regular check-ups can also help prevent future issues by identifying potential problems early on and addressing them before they worsen. - Maintaining oral health –
Your dentist can evaluate your teeth and gums for signs of decay, gum disease, or other issues. They can provide professional advice on maintaining good oral hygiene.
Be Patient and Consistent
Consistency and patience are key to achieving your smile goals through the Invisalign treatment. Bear in mind that Invisalign treatment is a gradual process without any shortcuts. It requires consistent wear of the aligners to shift teeth into their proper positions.
It is important to trust your dentist and trust the process. It takes time and commitment to complete your smile makeover. So celebrate small milestones along the way.
Being patient and consistent with Invisalign treatment can prevent complications, save time and money, and maintain good oral health. Consistent oral hygiene and regular orthodontist check-ups can help prevent decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. With all this in mind, you will be on your way to bringing your dream smile to life.
Prepare for Life After Invisalign
Preparing for life after Invisalign treatment is just as important as preparing for Invisalign treatment. Here are some tips for preparing for life after Invisalign:
- Use retainers –
Your dentist will fabricate a retainer to help maintain your teeth in their new positions. Wearing your retainer as directed is essential to prevent your teeth from returning to their original positions. - Explore post-treatment options –
You may have several options for additional cosmetic or restorative dental procedures to further enhance your smile. These may include dental bonding, veneers, or teeth whitening. - Practice good oral habits –
Most importantly, to maintain good oral health, continue practising good oral hygiene habits, such as regular brushing and flossing.
Cost of Invisalign
The cost of Invisalign treatment in Australia can vary depending on several factors. On average, Invisalign treatment can cost anywhere from $6,000 to $9,000. Some cases cost more depending on the complexity of the treatment.
The following are the factors that can affect the cost of Invisalign treatment in Australia:
- The severity of the orthodontic problem
– The severity of the orthodontic problem being addressed can affect the cost of Invisalign treatment. More complex cases require a longer treatment time and more aligners, increasing costs. - Treatment duration –
The length of the treatment can affect the cost of Invisalign treatment. A longer treatment requires more aligners and can result in higher costs. - Dentist experience –
The dentist’s background can also affect the cost of Invisalign treatment. More experienced orthodontists may charge more for their services. - Geographic location –
The cost of living and dental services can vary by location, affecting the cost of Invisalign treatment. - Health fund coverage
– Some insurance plans may provide coverage for Invisalign treatment. This helps reduce out-of-pocket costs for patients.
Note that the cost of Invisalign treatment may include additional expenses such as x-rays, retainers, and dental visits. To get a more accurate quotation, visit your dentist for a consultation.
Final Thoughts
Invisalign treatment can be a life-changing orthodontic procedure for those seeking a straighter smile. Following the tips outlined in this guide, you can prepare for Invisalign treatment and achieve your desired results.
From preparing your home for the treatment to understanding the process and committing to a routine, these tips can help make your Invisalign journey as smooth and successful as possible.
Schedule an appointment with AP Dental today if you’re ready to take the first step towards a straighter, more confident smile. Our experienced team of dental professionals can help determine if Invisalign is the right option for you. We will provide you with the support and guidance you need throughout treatment.
With our state-of-the-art technology and commitment to patient care, you can feel confident in your decision to pursue Invisalign treatment with AP Dental. Start your journey towards a beautiful, healthy smile.
