Many people wonder if it is possible to see Invisalign buttons once they are installed. To get a better understanding, we will start with a brief introduction to the Invisalign product.
Invisalign has been around since 1997. Since its inception, millions of teens and adults have straightened their teeth in a comfortable, discreet way. Compared to traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners are clear and virtually invisible to the naked eye. They don’t involve any obtrusive metal or brackets.
Best of all, Invisalign aligners are removable. This means you can take them out to enjoy a meal or care for your teeth. If you follow your dentist’s recommendations and keep your aligners in your mouth for at least 22 hours per day, you can achieve the smile of your dreams. In most cases, Invisalign treatment takes about one year to complete.
What are Invisalign Buttons?
Some patients with Invisalign require buttons to ensure their treatment works properly. Also known as attachments, buttons are tiny, tooth colored bumps that are bonded to the teeth. If you require buttons, your dentist will place them at precise locations so that the aligners grip better and direct movement forces with greater accuracy.
Who Requires Invisalign Buttons?
Not every Invisalign patient needs buttons. If your case is a bit more complex, however, your dentist may recommend them. They may be a good option if your teeth have rotated, angled in a unique way, or aren’t above the gumline as much as they should be.
In the past, these issues would disqualify teens and adults from Invisalign and force them to undergo traditional metal braces. Thanks to the technology and innovation of buttons, Invisalign may still be an option for those with complex cases. During an Invisalign consultation, we’ll be happy to let you know whether or not you’ll need buttons.
Are Buttons Visible?
When we tell patients they need buttons, many of them worry that they’ll be obvious. After all, Invisalign’s discreet nature is one of its most noteworthy benefits. Fortunately, buttons are tooth colored, meaning nobody will realize you have them unless they are very close to you or you tell them. Buttons can still allow you to straighten your teeth and achieve your dream smile discreetly.
Do Buttons Change Invisalign Treatment?
Fortunately, you can still go about Invisalign treatment normally with buttons. You may remove your aligners when you eat, drink, brush, or floss. The only caveat, however, is that it may take longer to do so since buttons make the aligners fit more snug against your teeth.
We suggest that if you do receive buttons, practice taking out your aligners so you can get used to it. If you’re struggling, we can make some suggestions and even provide you with a special tool to make the process easier. Rest assured that buttons don’t hurt. While they may feel a bit uncomfortable when a dentist first applies them, this discomfort should fade quickly once your teeth get used to them.
Schedule an Appointment at Tryon Family Dentistry
If you’re wondering whether you need buttons with Invisalign, we’ll be happy to let you know. We encourage you to schedule an appointment at our office to find out. Call us at 919-249-6799 today! Our dental team can’t wait to meet you!
