Is There a Downside to Choosing Invisalign® Clear Braces? A Dentist Explains

Clear braces like Invisalign® have become one of the most popular ways to improve teeth alignment and for many good reasons. These oral appliances provide a discreet and minimally invasive way to straighten teeth.

Clear braces are a significant improvement over traditional metal braces, which have been used to straighten teeth for over a century. Both apply pressure to the patient's teeth, slowly moving them toward a better position. However, while metal braces are permanently fixed in place, clear braces are removable appliances. Treatments start with several of these aligner trays, and each is used for approximately two weeks. Each aligner pushes the person's teeth closer to the desired alignment.

The disadvantages of clear braces like Invisalign®

While clear braces have many advantages over metal braces, like the fact that they are virtually impossible to notice when a person is wearing one, patients who have worn clear braces also notice a few things they do not like during the course of their treatment. These include:

1. Talking with a lisp

Wearing clear braces makes some people talk with a lisp. It typically gets better or even goes away over time. It is normal for the wearer to notice the lisp more than those they interact with. Still, it is one of the things they should be prepared for during treatment with clear braces.

2. Not being able to sip on beverages all day

Dentists recommend removing clear braces before drinking anything besides water. That might not be an issue for some, but those who love to sip on coffee while working will have to give the habit up during the course of their treatment. Clear aligners can stain clear braces, which makes them more visible in the mouth.

Dentists also recommend cleaning the teeth whenever clear braces are taken out for eating or drinking. The process of having to clean the teeth after drinking anything that is not water can get tiring.

3. Having sore teeth and cheeks

Patients change their aligner trays every two weeks during treatment with Invisalign®. Some patients report feeling discomfort during the first 24 to 48 hours after starting with a new aligner tray. The edges of the trays can rub around the insides of the wearer's cheeks, leading to irritation and soreness. It is not as bad as having to deal with braces, but it is something that patients should keep in mind.

4. Forgetting to wear your aligner tray

It is easy to forget to put in clear braces before leaving the house if the patient has a busy schedule. Doing that often will reduce the effects of the patient's treatment because the aligner trays need to be worn for 20-22 hours to be effective.

5. Making kissing weird

Yes, kissing someone with plastic trays over one's teeth feels a bit weird. It will get better with practice.

Get started with clear braces

Clear braces allow you to discreetly improve your teeth alignment. Call or visit our Emerson clinic to set up an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.emersondental.com or call Emerson Dental Associates at (201) 620-9998 for an appointment in our Emerson office.

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