Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that can help you achieve a beautiful smile without the need for traditional braces. However, like any other dental treatment, there are some risks associated with Invisalign that you should be aware of. Long-term damage to your teeth and gums is one of the most common risks associated with Invisalign. If you wear your aligners for more than a year, they can chip your teeth or cause other long-term damage.
Additionally, Invisalign can contribute to gum recession and exposure to the roots of the teeth. Sensitivity and discomfort are also natural for first-time Invisalign users. The discomfort will last a few days while your mouth gets used to the aligners. Once this goes away, you should start to feel more comfortable during the rest of your treatment.
However, some people make the mistake of trying to speed up Invisalign treatment by changing their aligners on time. This can have serious consequences, such as relapse, bone loss, or requiring new treatment due to atypical tooth movement patterns. When you first start wearing your aligners, you may experience some discomfort and difficulty speaking. This is because the retainer is pressing against your lips and tongue. As you get used to the presence of the retainer in your mouth, you should be able to speak without any inhibitions.
Additionally, some patients may accidentally bite their cheeks or cut their tongues with the retainer as they adapt to its presence in the mouth. It may take a while for you to adapt to the position of your new teeth to avoid accidental biting. If this happens, it is essential to rinse your mouth and use an antibacterial mouthwash to prevent infections or other irritations. Allergic reactions are another risk associated with Invisalign treatment. The polyurethane and isocyanate components that make up Invisalign retainers can cause mild irritation of the gums and mouth or more serious effects such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat or lips, blisters, or anaphylactic reactions.
If you experience any discomfort or irritation associated with an allergic reaction, it is important to talk to your orthodontist immediately. Removable dental aligners offer a low-visibility solution but they can also increase the risk of tooth decay if not worn properly. Tooth decay is a common complication of Invisalign that occurs when plaque and tartar build up on the teeth due to poor oral hygiene or not cleaning the aligners regularly. Symptoms include toothache, bad breath, and sensitivity to hot and cold beverages. Gum disease is another risk associated with Invisalign treatment. It occurs when plaque and tartar build up on the teeth and irritate the gum tissue.
This can cause gum swelling, redness, and bleeding if not handled right away. Mouth sores are also common when aligners rub against the gums and cheeks due to improper fit. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and pain. Smoking or using tobacco can also interfere with healing and increase the risk of infection after dental procedures. If you smoke, consider quitting or reducing your use of tobacco. Invisalign offers many benefits such as restoring confidence and improving oral health by making it easier to clean your teeth and gums when they are in the right position.
This reduces the risk of developing gum disease. Additionally, Invisalign is a comfortable alternative to conventional orthodontic appliances since there are no wires or metal supports that could rub against your gums and tongue. If you are allergic to this material, Invisalign may not be a good option for you and you should consult your dentist about alternative treatments. Even with Invisalign treatment, it is important to go to the dentist for professional cleanings and checkups every six months. Studies have found that patients with Invisalign are less at risk of developing periodontal disease than other treatments with fixed orthodontic appliances such as braces. Your dentist will examine the previously affected area and determine if your mouth is suitable enough for Invisalign treatment.
If so, they will inform you that your nerves are at risk of being damaged during treatment.
