There is no doubt that Invisalign is a highly advantageous treatment. It has already helped countless people to straighten their teeth without the inconvenience of traditional brackets and wires. However, just like most other procedures in the world of medicine, it does have some potential downsides. It may even cause some minor complications. In this blog post, you will learn some important facts about how Invisalign works and some potential problems that you might run into.
Discomfort
One of the most common complaints among Invisalign patients is discomfort. While there are no metal parts to irritate your mouth’s soft oral tissues, the aligners are still designed to apply pressure to your teeth. This can cause oral soreness, especially when you first start using a set of aligners. Usually, the discomfort wears off after a few days. In the meantime, over-the-counter pain medications can help to manage the issue.
Cavities and Gum Disease
Oral hygiene is always important, but it is especially so for individuals undergoing Invisalign. If you do not stick to good brushing and flossing habits, plaque and food particles might get trapped against your teeth, increasing your risk of cavities and gum infections. If you have questions about oral hygiene throughout Invisalign treatment, talk to your dental hygienist for advice.
Allergic Reactions
Invisalign trays are made of smooth plastic; most patients tolerate it very well. In rare instances, however, allergic reactions have occurred. Symptoms include itching, swelling, and rashes. If you suspect that your body is not reacting well to your aligners, contact your dentist right away. You might need to start using an alternative treatment.
TMJ Disorder Flare-Ups
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is a condition that occurs when the jaw joints (TMJs) become damaged or inflamed. Unfortunately, because Invisalign can affect the way your upper and lower teeth fit together, it might cause flare-ups of TMD, leading to symptoms like jaw pain, soreness in your facial muscles, and headaches.
The good news is that Invisalign may ultimately reduce or eliminate TMD. As your teeth come into their proper alignment, you may be much less prone to flare-ups.
Speech Differences
As you adjust to Invisalign, you may find that your speech is temporarily affected. You might have a slight lisp, or you may need to speak a bit slower than usual. Most patients adapt within a few days or weeks. If you have ongoing or severe speech challenges, ask your dentist for assistance.
The Benefits of Invisalign Outweigh the Risks
Invisalign has both pros and cons. For most patients, the benefits far outweigh any potential risks or complications. Your dentist can help you gain a fuller understanding of how Invisalign works so you can make a well-informed decision about whether it is right for you.
Meet the Practice
At Willow Run Dental Association, our experienced team is proud to provide Invisalign and a broad range of other treatments for our community. We enjoy open and honest communication with our patients, and we are always happy to answer questions. If you would like to learn more about what to expect as you are straightening your teeth, get in touch with our Auburn, ME, office at 207-352-2825.