Invisalign has taken the world of modern dentistry by storm, and these days, more patients than ever before are opting to straighten their teeth with these impressive clear aligners! However, some people who wear Invisalign become a little confused when they’re told that they need “attachments” to complement their clear aligners. Just what exactly are Invisalign attachments, why would they be needed, and does any part of the process hurt? Here’s everything you need to know.
How Do Invisalign Attachments Work?
Invisalign relies on a system of custom-made, clear plastic aligners that fit snugly over the upper and lower arches of your teeth. The aligners are worn almost 24/7 and are only taken out for oral hygiene and meals. As they’re being worn, they apply gradual pressure to your teeth, encouraging them to slowly move into healthier, straighter positions.
However, sometimes the clear aligners on their own aren’t enough to achieve your ideal smile. This is especially true for more advanced cases, where more moderate issues are being addressed. In these cases, your orthodontist may decide to apply attachments to your teeth to give your trays a little extra help.
These attachments, often in the shape of small bumps or buttons, are made from a tooth-colored material called composite resin, which is the same thing used for dental fillings, cosmetic bonding, and other treatments. You can expect a little discomfort in the days after they’re placed, not because of the attachments themselves, but instead, the increased orthodontic force that they’re applying.
Why Would I Need Invisalign Attachments?
Not every patient will need Invisalign attachments, but they can be useful in certain situations:
- Complex movements are needed – Aligners push teeth; they don’t pull them. Attachments act as handles and provide extra anchor points to help rotate or tilt certain teeth.
- Better tray retention/tracking – Attachments help to keep your aligners snugly sealed against the teeth so they don’t slip or lift.
- Predictable results – Teeth can be stubborn and don’t always move as anticipated. Invisalign attachments can help make their movements more precise and efficient.
Does It Hurt to Have Invisalign Attachments Removed?
You’ll be happy to hear that the process for removing Invisalign attachments is both quick and painless; in fact, it doesn’t even require your mouth to be numbed. Your provider will gently buff the composite resin off using a specialized dental tool, with no drilling necessary. Though you’ll feel some vibration and pressure, as well as hear an unusual scraping sound, you will not feel any outright pain. It actually feels similar to having your teeth polished during a routine cleaning, and the entire process only takes around 10 or so minutes!
Many patients love Invisalign because it lets them achieve the smile of their dreams without many of the hassles that are associated with traditional braces. That said, if you need attachments with your Invisalign, know that they’re just a small, simple addition that keeps things moving along smoothly!
About Simply Orthodontics
Our team has proudly served the needs of patients and families all around New England for several years, offering a wide range of orthodontic services for all ages. If you’re hoping to straighten your smile with Invisalign clear aligners, you can trust our experts to guide you through every step of the process. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, you can reach out online or call today for more information or assistance.
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