Invisalign: Stories

Cons:
* You have to brush your teeth after you eat or drink anything other than water. If you don't, you will get cavities and it will be harder to clean your trays.
* Dry mouth and occasional tooth / gum tenderness.
* They aren't completely invisible and it takes some time getting used to having something on your teeth - especially when you are talking.

Pros:
* Cuts back on snacking.
* The pain is pretty mild - nothing some Advil can't take care of.
* You can take them out but after a while, you'll feel better when they are in.

I felt very restricted - almost a little claustrophobic -at first and it was difficult to talk without a lisp but this went away within the first few weeks. I was freaked out when my dentist filed between my front teeth leaving gaps but they closed in about two weeks. I had to have my teeth filed about 3 times and each time the gaps have closed nicely. My teeth look to be in alignment with the rest of my face so I'm happy with it and fortunately no more filing.

If I know we're going out for a night on the town with lots of food and drink, I will leave my trays at home and put them back on when we get home. This hasn't extended my treatment and is very convenient.

I will wear 29 trays - that's about 60 weeks. I'm on tray #10 after about 4.5 months of treatment. I had to wear the first couple of trays for more than 2 weeks. I'm 1/3 of the way done and I am finally starting to see noticeable results. I can't wait to see how things continue to progress and hopefully by this time next year I'll be done.