You’ll find the answers to some of the most common questions about Invisalign on our site, but as you can imagine, we can’t fit every question people have about this treatment on a single page. Otherwise, you would be scrolling forever! Fortunately, in today’s blog, we’re going to respond to some of the less popular frequently asked questions about Invisalign so you can have all the information you need before deciding whether or not it’s right for you.
1. What is the best way to remove Invisalign trays?
The simplest method involves using a fingernail to grab the back edge on one side of the tray and slide it down, which should help the rest of it slip off easily. It’s important to remember to always wash your hands before putting them in your mouth. If you keep your fingernails really short, this approach might not work, however. Invisalign offers a product that can assist with removing trays, but a small crochet hook works just as well, plus it tends to cost much less!
2. If my Invisalign tray has a sharp edge, can I fix it myself?
Each Invisalign tray is custom-shaped for a patient to guarantee a comfortable fit, but sometimes, a thin or uneven edge can lead to irritation. While this might seem like a small issue you can handle yourself with some sandpaper, only your orthodontist should make adjustments to your trays. Slightly altering the shape or changing the edge too much can affect a tray’s ability to shift the teeth correctly, which can potentially throw off your treatment timeline.
3. Will Invisalign change the way I talk?
Right after starting Invisalign, a patient may notice a slight change in the way they speak, and some even develop a minor lisp. Thankfully, this is typically short-lived, as the tongue is quickly able to adapt to the trays being in the mouth. To help this process go by quickly, we recommend reading aloud with the trays, and singing in the shower works just as well!
4. Can I drink tea or coffee while wearing Invisalign?
You should take your Invisalign trays out if you’re eating or drinking anything other than unflavored water. While you can drink tea or coffee while wearing your trays, this will likely cause them to stain. Plus, these beverages (along with their sugar) can become trapped between your teeth and trays, increasing your risk of cavities. The few seconds it takes to remove your trays can save you a lot of headaches throughout the course of your treatment!
5. Can I kiss normally with Invisalign?
Yes! Whether you’re kissing a “boo-boo” to help your child feel better or you’re smooching your spouse, nothing should feel different for either you or them. The smooth trays lay flat against the teeth, so they won’t affect your lips in the slightest.
Have we answered all of your Invisalign questions yet? If not, then you are always welcome to give Shirck Orthodontics a call. We’re happy to share any information you need so that you or your child can begin the journey toward a beautiful new smile with complete peace of mind.
About the Author
Dr. Jeffrey Shirck is a board-certified, award-winning orthodontist who graduated from The Ohio State University. An Elite Invisalign Provider since 2017, he’s always willing to sit down with patients and go over their treatment so they know exactly what to expect each step of the way. Want to know more about how our team could help you or your child? You can schedule a FREE in-person consultation by clicking here.