Hey there, adults! In your busy day-to-day, you may be wondering if it’s still possible to fix your crooked teeth and get the smile you’ve always dreamed of. Well the team at Premiere Orthodontics is here to tell you “yes”! And even better…you’ll be able to embark on your smile journey using a discreet and comfortable treatment, Invisalign or 3M clear aligners.
Now you may have more questions about this popular orthodontic treatment so we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 3M/Invisalign FAQs, just for you:
1. Are 3M clarity aligners good? How do they work?
While Invisalign® is one of the most recognized clear aligner brands on the market today, 3M™ Clarity™ aligners are increasing in popularity as well! Both of these teeth-straightening systems use a series of clear, removable aligners to apply consistent, gentle force to move your teeth into healthy alignment. Invisalign and 3M aligners are also custom made just for your smile! So each tray will give you a comfortable and discreet fit.
2. How long does Invisalign take to fix an overbite? What about 3M aligners?
While how long you wear your Invisalign aligners varies from patient to patient, Dr. Battle will assess and diagnose the severity of your overbite (and any other orthodontic conditions you may have) at your complimentary orthodontic consultation. During this time, he’ll go over your personalized treatment plan, including your treatment timeline.
3. What are the 3M or Invisalign instructions I need to follow?
Sticking to your treatment plan is an important part of your orthodontic journey. The standard for 3M/Invisalign instructions is as follows:
- Only drink water with your aligners in, other beverages like coffee or juice require aligner removal.
- Only remove your aligners for eating, brushing, and flossing.
- Always rinse off or clean your aligners before putting them back in.
- Clean your aligners daily using safe and approved methods.
4. How long per day should I wear my clear aligners?
On average, you should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day. Dr. Battle will include your unique timeframe in your treatment plan. Complying with your wear time is going to give you the best possible smile results – and when your aligners aren’t in, they’re not applying the forces needed for healthy tooth movement.
5. What is the average treatment time for Invisalign? How long does 3M aligners take?
Just like how long you’ll wear your aligners on a day-to-day basis, the length of Invisalign or 3M treatment varies by case. While the average clear aligner treatment time length is 12 to 18 months, Dr. Battle will include your treatment estimate in your personalized treatment plan.
6. I had braces before and didn’t wear my retainers. Can clear aligners help me?
Yes! Invisalign or 3M aligners can be a simple and discreet way to correct any shifting due to orthodontic relapse. Just be sure to wear your aligners as prescribed to reveal that beautiful, healthy smile again!
7. Why should I choose an orthodontist over DIY/mail-order companies?
Orthodontists are experts in diagnosing and treating the root cause of malocclusions (or misalignments in the teeth or jaws). By finding the right orthodontist for your family, you’ll receive the comprehensive and individualized care you and your smile deserve. DIY and mail order aligner companies lack doctor-monitored treatment and care and can lead to tooth loss.
8. How do I know if I can benefit from clear aligner treatment?
Invisalign or 3M (in the right hands) can treat a wide range of orthodontic problems, from mild to moderate. If you have crowded teeth, spacing, overbite, or any other common orthodontic condition and are ready to fall in love with your smile again, we invite you to schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Battle. He will assess your smile health and determine if Invisalign treatment can benefit you.
9. Are there any restrictions on what I can eat or drink with Invisalign/3M?
No, there are no food restrictions when it comes to clear aligner treatment. You’re able to enjoy all your favorite foods and snacks; just simply remove your aligners first and be sure to brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in. As for drinking, we recommend that you remove your aligners before drinking any other beverage than water. This will help prevent staining and plaque-build up from acidic or sugary drinks.
10. Will Invisalign/3M affect my speech?
During your first few days with clear aligners, you may experience a slight lisp as you adjust to your new orthodontic appliance, especially with the “sh”, “ch”, and “th” sounds. But within the week, you’ll be used to your aligners and speaking as normal.
Still have more questions about adult clear aligner treatment?
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions. We provide the highest quality care in the area, and we’d be more than happy to discuss your options with you! Get started today by requesting your complimentary consultation with Dr. Battle, a top orthodontist in Waterford Lakes (Orlando) and Winter Springs/Oviedo!
