Can I Sleep Wearing Invisalign? Your Questions Answered

13/02/2024

Can I Sleep Wearing Invisalign? Your Questions Answered

If you want to straighten your teeth, Invisalign may top your list as a possible treatment option. This might be because you’re attracted to the subtle and convenient nature of the clear, removable aligner system. 

But before committing to any treatment, it’s important to fully understand how it works and how it will impact your life. 

We’re asked lots of questions about Invisalign. “Can you sleep wearing aligners?” “How long does Invisalign treatment take?” “What happens if I break my aligner?”

Although we’re always happy to answer your questions during your initial consultation or whenever we see you throughout treatment, here are some of the answers to the most commonly asked Invisalign questions. 

Can I sleep Wearing Invisalign?

Yes! Invisalign aligners are made from a smooth, comfortable plastic. When you first wear your aligner, it can take a little bit of getting used to. But most people soon forget they’re wearing an aligner after a day or two. You’ll barely notice it at night.

Invisalign aligners are also perfectly safe. So you don’t need to worry about yours becoming dislodged as you sleep.

How Many Hours Do I Need to Wear My Aligner?

During your initial consultation, we’ll show you how your teeth will look after treatment. To get the predicted results, you’ll need to be strict and wear your aligner as directed. To achieve the expected outcome, you should wear your aligner for at least 22 hours each day. 

Can I Eat With My Aligner In?

No. Biting and chewing could damage your aligner and cause staining. Not only this but food could easily get trapped in your aligner, increasing the chances of decay. 

Invisalign is removable. We recommend removing it and storing it in a case until you’ve finished eating. 

Can I Drink Wearing Invisalign? 

Again, drinking while wearing Invisalign could affect its condition. Hot drinks will warp the plastic, altering its effectiveness. Sugary or alcoholic drinks could discolour the aligner, affecting its clarity. 

Again, we recommend removing your aligner while consuming drinks other than water. 

How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?

The answer to this is different for every patient. If you have a mild misalignment, your treatment can take as few as six months. More advanced cases will take between one and two years. 

We’ll be able to give you a clearer indication of your treatment duration at your initial consultation. 

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign is made from a patented plastic that creates gentle forces against your teeth. Because Invisalign aligners are custom-made for your teeth, the pressure they create is precisely calculated.

During your treatment, you’ll change aligners every fortnight. Each new aligner is very slightly different to the last. 

Will Invisalign Affect My Speech?

Invisalign can affect speech temporarily while you get used to it. Your tongue may find the presence of the aligner strange, and it may cause you to lisp. Persevere with wearing your aligner and speak as usual. You’ll probably get used to the aligner quickly, and most aligner-related lisps disappear after a couple of days. 

What Happens If I Break or Lose My Aligner?

Invisalign aligners are durable, but if you do break yours, or lose it, give us a call. If you’ve recently started wearing it, we may recommend wearing your previous aligner temporarily while we get you a replacement. 

What Is a Retainer, and Do I Need One?

Retainers are used after aligner treatment. They are similar to aligners, but you don’t have to wear them as much. Retainers don’t move teeth — they keep them where they are. 

Although you’ve worked hard to move your teeth, your teeth may not have firmly anchored into your jaw in the new position. Retainers help with this process. 

Invisalign in Sheffield

Invisalign is a simple, subtle, and life-changing teeth straightening treatment. If you have any questions about the process, feel free to ask us. Book your initial consultation appointment today.

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