It is common knowledge that Invisalign uses a series of custom-made clear plastic aligners to straighten teeth. However, the aligners are sometimes just one part of the equation. After a thorough evaluation, your dental team might determine that you need Invisalign attachments. What are Invisalign attachments? Do they hurt? What else should you know about them? This blog post provides helpful information.
What Are Invisalign Attachments?
Invisalign attachments are small, tooth-colored bumps that get bonded directly to specific teeth. (This distinguishes them from aligner bumps or bite ramps, which are built into the aligners themselves.) Their main role is to help guide and focus the gentle pressure applied by the aligners, making it possible for your teeth to move in ways that would be difficult or impossible without them.
Attachments are bonded onto your teeth for the duration recommended by your dental professional. Many patients must wear them for the entirety of their treatment, but in some cases, they can be removed earlier.
The Placement and Removal Process
The process of placing Invisalign attachments is straightforward and comfortable. Your dentist will first clean the surface of your teeth, then use a dental adhesive to bond the attachments in the precise locations needed. Most patients experience little to no discomfort during this procedure.
When your treatment is complete or your dentist decides the attachments are no longer necessary, they will be removed using a specialized dental instrument. Any adhesive residue will be smoothed and polished away, leaving your teeth clean and unharmed. You might notice a slight sensation of pressure during both placement and removal, but most patients describe the experience as painless.
Living with Invisalign Attachments
You may feel a mild pressure or tenderness after the attachments are placed, especially as your aligners get to work moving your teeth. This discomfort usually fades within a few days. Once you become used to them, the attachments will likely go unnoticed during your daily activities. They are designed to be discreet; they match the shade of your teeth so your smile remains as natural-looking as possible.
In terms of daily life, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Attachments should not affect your ability to eat a wide range of foods, but it is wise to avoid sticky or very hard items that could loosen them.
- Practicing thorough oral hygiene is of critical importance because food particles and pigments can build up around the attachments, leading to discoloration.
- Limiting highly pigmented foods and beverages, such as coffee or red wine, can also aid in reducing staining potential for your attachments.
- Your hygienist should be able to remove stains that might develop.
Invisalign attachments can be a valuable part of your experience with Invisalign! Ask your dental team if you have questions about them and their role in straightening your teeth.
Meet the Practice
At Family Dental Practice of Newington, our team of general dentists and specialists proudly offers top-quality services in a welcoming environment, including Invisalign. If you have questions about it or what else may be involved in straightening your teeth, we would be happy to speak with you. Contact our office at 860-856-6201.