While Invisalign is often considered an easier and more discreet alternative to traditional braces, some patients will require appliances called attachments to ensure that their treatment achieves their desired results. Though receiving and removing these attachments can involve some discomfort, it will be mild, temporary, and easy to manage. Here’s a brief guide to how Invisalign attachments work and how you can stay comfortable while using them.
What Are Invisalign Attachments?
While many patients will only need a customized sequence of clear aligners to straighten their teeth with Invisalign, some patients with more severe misalignments will require attachments to address issues like large gaps, extreme crowding, or teeth that are just stubborn about moving. Invisalign attachments are cemented to the teeth so the aligner trays can exert more leverage to shift them into healthier positions.
Invisalign attachments are made from tooth-colored composite resin, which is the same material used for white fillings. Orthodontists typically employ them to execute more complex movements like rotations, extrusions, or intrusions.
Do Invisalign Attachments Hurt?
While you can expect minor discomfort after you first receive your Invisalign attachments, it will be mild and will gradually fade away as you get used to wearing them. This discomfort comes from the additional pressure that the attachments allow your clear aligners to exert upon the teeth, which allows them to complete more dramatic movements. The best way to get rid of this discomfort is to wear your clear aligners for twenty to twenty-two hours a day so you can adjust to them more quickly.
Does Removing Invisalign Attachments Hurt?
Invisalign attachments should only be removed by a qualified dentist, and the process involves using specialized tools to detach the composite resin without harming the enamel. While the process is relatively painless, you may experience some dental sensitivity afterward. You can manage this issue by avoiding hot, cold, acidic, spicy, or sweet foods and using desensitizing toothpaste if necessary.
You can rest assured that Invisalign attachments are an important part of straightening out your smile if your dentist recommends them. By adhering to your treatment instructions and practicing excellent oral hygiene, you can keep your teeth in excellent health while they are being realigned.
About the Practice
Blue Back Dental offers the finest oral health services in Avon. Led by a skilled team of seven dentists, the staff treats each patient with courtesy, respect, and outstanding customer service. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as Invisalign services. To learn more about Invisalign attachments, contact the office online or dial (860) 233-9300.