Does life change with Invisalign?

Here at Weybridge Orthodontics, we understand that all our patients have different needs and requirements when it comes to getting the smile they have always wanted. For many, Invisalign Weybridge is a great option as it offers excellent results while being completely invisible to others. Here, we explain what this treatment is and explore whether the life of the patient must change during the process.

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What is Invisalign Weybridge?

Invisalign Weybridge is considered by many to be the ultimate modern solution to correcting teeth that are not quite as straight and uniform as they should be. It is a type of orthodontic treatment that takes the form of completely transparent trays of very soft plastic. These trays are known as aligners and are placed over the teeth. They are swapped for a new set every few weeks, and thus gradually move the teeth into a more desirable position.

Does the patient have to change what they eat?

One of the great advantages of opting for clear aligners over other options such as fixed braces is that there is no need for any changes to the diet of our patients. This is because these braces are designed to be removed for eating. A patient simply removes them before a meal, then brushes their teeth afterwards before putting the aligners back in. This means that they can continue to eat whatever they fancy, and do not have to make any special concessions when it comes to certain foods.

However, it is worth noting that though the patient can eat as normal, snacking should be kept to an absolute minimum. This is because the braces must be worn for most of the time every day: ideally 22 out of every 24 hours. If the patient is taking them out throughout the day for frequent snacks, then they cannot expect the best possible results at the end of the treatment period.

Can the patient drink whatever they like?

The beverage of choice for the person wearing invisible braces should be water. This is because other drinks such as cola, coffee, tea, red wine and so on can stain the braces with the result that they are no longer invisible. If the patient wishes to consume anything other than water as a drink, they should limit this to during meals only when the aligners have been removed. This will protect them and ensure that they remain completely transparent.

Can the patient still play sports or musical instruments?

Yes! This is a great advantage of clear braces. Other forms of orthodontic treatment can make playing contact sports or musical instruments difficult if not impossible, because they are permanent fixtures for the duration of treatment. However, because Invisalign can be taken out for matches and for music lessons or performances, then the patient can enjoy their usual activities as normal.

Wearing invisible braces does not mean that the life of the patient has to change drastically.  They can still enjoy all their favourite foods and many hobbies and the advantage of the fact that no one needs to know they are being treated with aligners. However, there is an element of self-discipline required that should be considered carefully before embarking on treatment, something we invariably point out to our prospective Invisalign patients.