Although today your dentist can offer Invisalign to help close gaps, reposition overcrowded teeth, and adjust your jaw alignment, it hasn’t always been such a versatile solution. Initially, it could help patients with milder issues, while more significant concerns still required traditional orthodontics.
But thanks to Invisalign attachments, these transparent trays can handle more complex cases than they could in the past. But you’re not alone if you’re unsure what attachments are or are worried that having them placed or removed might hurt. Continue reading to learn more about it so you can set your mind at ease!
How Does Invisalign Work?
Unlike standard braces, which utilize metal brackets and wires, this system relies on a series of transparent trays that fit over your teeth to gently shift them to their ideal places. You must wear them 20 to 22 hours a day to prevent your teeth from shifting back; then, after about a week or two, you’ll switch to the next aligners in your series to keep up with your smile’s movement.
Many patients complete this service in 12 to 18 months, though the exact timeframe depends on your circumstances and whether you follow the allotted wear times.
What Are Invisalign Attachments?
If you have more significantly gapped or overcrowded teeth, or if your dentist is using Invisalign to help reposition your jaw, there’s a chance that your trays might not be strong enough to make the desired changes. In these cases, your dentist may need to place attachments, sometimes called buttons, on your teeth.
This involves placing small bumps of clear or tooth-colored composite resin on your enamel, then hardening them in place with a special ultraviolet light. This creates small, discreet lumps that act as extra anchors to strengthen your trays’ grip so they can make the required adjustments.
Does it Hurt to Remove Invisalign Attachments?
These attachments typically stay in place throughout your treatment, so you likely won’t have to worry about removing them until you’re done wearing your aligners. Then, your dentist can schedule an appointment to carefully remove them.
You’re not alone if you’re worried this process might hurt your teeth, but that’s not usually the case. Your provider uses special dental instruments to gently polish them away without harming your enamel in a straightforward procedure that might take only 15 to 30 minutes. However, if you’re overly anxious, your dentist might recommend sedation, such as nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, to help you feel calm and comfortable throughout your visit.
If you’re unsure whether your treatment might require attachments, your provider can share more details during your Invisalign consultation!
Meet the Author
Dr. Mariya Barnett has nearly a decade of experience helping children and adults build beautiful, healthy smiles. She earned her dental doctorate from the University of Michigan, then completed a one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at the Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry. Today, she works diligently to offer a complete menu of services, including Invisalign, using advanced technology for more comfortable and accurate outcomes. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (469) 874-0469.