In these last 24 years, Invisalign® has completely taken the world by storm.
Since the clear aligner’s invention in 1997, several more clear aligner brands have entered the market.
But Invisalign is the original and most established company.
Plus:
Their treatment system utilizes something most other brands don’t: attachments.
We’ll tell you what attachments are, how they work, and how they benefit your treatment in this quick blog.
What are Invisalign attachments?
Invisalign attachments, also known as buttons, are dots of composite resin that your dentist may place on your teeth.
They’re bonded to stay securely on your teeth during your Invisalign treatment.
Composite resin is a tooth-colored material, so the attachments are virtually invisible.
Each attachment is uniquely shaped and strategically placed to help your aligners properly straighten your teeth.
Are attachments necessary for Invisalign?
They aren’t always necessary, but you may need attachments if your treatment requires more complex tooth movement.
With attachments, your aligners will lock onto your teeth and fit more snugly.
Attachments help you progress through your treatment plan efficiently because they’ll:
- Prevent unwanted tooth movement
- Prevent your aligners from sliding around
- Make your treatment results more predictable
- Allow your dentist or orthodontist to have better precision control
Your dentist will decide if attachments are in your best interest.
How many Invisalign attachments will you need?
The amount of attachments needed depends on your case and diagnosis.
Many patients require somewhere between four to twenty attachments on their top and bottom teeth.
Do Invisalign attachments hurt?
The attachments themselves don’t hurt.
However:
It’s normal to experience some discomfort when you initially switch to new aligners due to the new amount of force being placed on your teeth to move them.
It may take you a day or two to get used to new attachments too.
If you experience discomfort with Invisalign, you can take over-the-counter pain medicines like Motrin or place an ice pack on your face to soothe the soreness.
Can Invisalign attachments be removed?
Generally, Invisalign attachments stay on your teeth throughout treatment.
Occasionally, your dentist may remove, alter, or add new ones throughout the straightening process.
But:
Once your treatment is complete, all attachments are removed.
On average… This text opens a new tab to the Invisalign website…, Invisalign treatment takes 12 to 18 months, but your dentist will determine the length of your treatment based on your needs and smile goals.
You should never try to remove your attachments at home, as that may cause damage to the tooth enamel that the attachment is anchored to.
Do Invisalign attachments cost extra?
Not necessarily.
Invisalign attachments are included in the total cost of your treatment.
To find out how much Invisalign will cost you, contact your nearest Invisalign provider for a consultation.
If you’re worried about costs:
We recommend checking if your dental insurance covers orthodontics before starting the treatment.
You can also ask your dentist if they offer payment plans.
Want to learn more about Invisalign?
Contact Schur Orthodontics, your trusted Invisalign Preferred Provider in Bellevue, WA!
Dr. Jeff Schur is a certified orthodontic specialist with over a decade of Invisalign experience.
Plus:
He’s completed several hours of continuing education with The Invisalign Orthodontic Master Program.
Please reach out any time if you have any questions or if you’re considering getting Invisalign in the Greater Seattle Area!
- Book a virtual consultation
- Request an appointment
- Call us at (425) 747-4477
- Email us at info@schurorthodontics.com
Our office is located in Bellevue, WA… This text opens a new tab to our office on Google Maps… and sees patients from all over the area, including Redmond, Kirkland, Seattle, Renton, Eastside, and Woodinville.