Invisalign is a world-leading clear aligner treatment. Since it launched in 2000, Invisalign has realigned millions of smiles. Its clarity, comfort, and convenience mean it has become immensely popular with patients.

Using clear aligners, we can fix crowded, crooked, and protruding teeth while closing gaps in your smile. Because Invisalign is so beautifully simple, it’s easy to make assumptions about what it can and cannot do.

But following these misconceptions could mean you miss out on a treatment that could change your life.

In this guide, we separate fact from fiction and straighten out some of the myths and untruths about Invisalign.

MYTH #1 – Invisalign Can Only Treat Minor Malocclusions

Because Invisalign seems so simple, it’s often assumed that it can only treat straightforward cases. While Invisalign is great for correcting mild alignment issues, we can use it to tackle moderate spacing and bite issues too.

The principle behind Invisalign is similar to fixed braces—the aligners create a constant force against your teeth. This causes slight tooth movements. By changing your aligner every two weeks, we can make incremental adjustments of a fraction of a millimetre. Over time, these slight adjustments add up to amazing, very visible changes.

MYTH #2 – Invisalign Causes Lisps

Wearing an aligner over your teeth can take a little bit of getting used to, and moving your tongue as you speak can feel unnatural for a while. During this time, many patients find they develop a temporary lisp.

This is usually short-lived. Most people adjust to wearing the aligner after a few days. As you get used to wearing your aligner, your tongue naturally returns to its normal position when forming sounds and words.

MYTH #3 – Invisalign Is Only for Teenagers

The teen years are perfect for orthodontic treatments because the jaw typically reaches its adult size, and all of the permanent teeth have arrived. However, orthodontic treatments are by no means restricted to teenagers. Adults and younger children can both have Invisalign treatment.

Adults often love how discreet Invisalign is. The removable aligners make it easier to receive treatment without having to adjust to fixed braces too.

MYTH #4 – Invisalign Is Expensive

Invisalign involves wearing a series of bespoke aligners for between six months and two years. During this time, you’ll change your aligner every fortnight. Due to the custom nature of the treatment, it’s easy to assume Invisalign is expensive.

While the exact cost of your treatment will vary depending on your circumstances, Invisalign isn’t as expensive as you might expect. Not only is it more cost-effective than some teeth straightening treatments, but monthly payment plans and finance options are available.

MYTH #5 – Invisalign Causes Bad Oral Hygiene and Tooth Decay

For Invisalign treatment to be effective, you must wear your aligner for 22 hours each day. During this time, your aligner will be pressed against your teeth. You might expect that this means you’re holding plaque bacteria in position, increasing the risk of tooth decay.

While that might be a risk factor, as long as you maintain good oral hygiene and keep your aligner clean, you can avoid any issues.

Because Invisalign is removable, brushing your teeth is as easy as normal, and you can wash your aligner thoroughly too.

MYTH #6 – You Can Order Aligners Online

Several aligner brands advertise online treatment without the support of a dentist. While these may seem cheaper and more convenient, you won’t get the same level of care or accuracy. The results are typically not as good.

Although we send scans of your teeth off to the Invisalign laboratory to have your custom aligners made, seeing us throughout your treatment is essential as we’ll check on your progress and provide valuable support when required.

MYTH #7 – You Need To Make Diet Adjustments

It’s easy to assume you need to avoid eating certain foods during treatment; after all, particles often get trapped in brace wires. You can take Invisalign out at mealtimes. This means you can eat whatever you like.

Similarly, you should take your aligner out when drinking anything that’s not water. Warm or sticky fluids can damage or stain your aligner affecting its clarity and effectiveness.

Invisalign at Canon House

Invisalign is a simple teeth straightening treatment that’s perfect for any age. Call us today and book your Invisalign consultation to learn whether it’s right for you.