Invisalign is a popular non-invasive solution for teenagers and adults looking to straighten their teeth without the time, discomfort, and aesthetics of traditional braces. Before committing to the procedure, patients must ensure that they take proper care of their teeth after using Invisalign in order to preserve its corrective effects. Your dentist in Bellvue, NE, can recommend the best retainer for you.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable, mouthpiece-like aligners to straighten teeth. The aligners are custom-made for each patient in order to ensure a comfortable, precise fit. A major positive is that, unlike traditional braces, Invisalign’s aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating and brushing.
Patients undergoing the Invisalign treatment wear a series of different aligners, for roughly two weeks each, for a period of about 12 to 18 months, depending on the patient and need. Each new aligner gradually shifts the teeth closer until the desired position is achieved. Invisalign can be used to correct a variety of orthodontic issues, including crowded or spaced teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and relapses among patients who’ve previously had braces.
Do Teeth Relapse after Invisalign?
In the absence of proper post-treatment care, teeth may relapse after Invisalign. As teeth have a natural tendency to shift back to their original position, the most important factor in maintaining the results achieved through Invisalign is wearing custom-made retainers as instructed by your dentist or orthodontist.
Additionally, patients must ensure that they are brushing and flossing regularly and generally maintaining good post-treatment oral hygiene, as bacteria buildup and gum disease can weaken teeth and allow them to shift over time.
Other less common factors that can contribute to post-Invisalign relapse include trauma to the teeth or jaw, grinding of the teeth, and nail biting. Anyone experiencing changes in tooth alignment after using Invisalign is advised to contact their orthodontist immediately to prevent further relapse.
Invisalign Dentists in Bellvue
If you’re in the Bellvue, NE area and concerned that you may be experiencing a post-Invisalign relapse, contact dentist Dr. Beth Kampschneider, dentist Dr. Cameron Thomas, and the team at Kennedy Dental to set up a consultation appointment.