Many teens and adults choose Invisalign because the clear trays are much more comfortable and discreet than traditional orthodontics. However, the transparent plastic also doesn’t allow for the same manipulation of movement as the metal brackets and wires do. Historically, that meant that aligners were ideal for patients with mild gaps or overcrowding, and more severe cases required braces.
Thanks to the more recent development of Invisalign attachments, increasing numbers of people have been able to straighten their smiles successfully. However, patients often wonder whether having these bumps removed will hurt. Continue reading to learn more about why you have no reason to fear!
What Are Invisalign Attachments?
These additions are small bumps bonded to your enamel to provide additional anchors for your clear aligners. They are made of the same composite resin as dental fillings but are transparent instead of tooth-colored, making them less conspicuous. They’re designed by Invisalign technology and are strategically placed to allow your trays to grab and pull your teeth more effectively.
When Do Invisalign Attachments Come Off?
Typically, these attachments remain in place for the duration of your treatment, though there may be exceptions. Invisalign technology designs all your trays in advance, and these additions are part of the initial design process. Sometimes, they are intended to be removed when you reach a certain tray number. Otherwise, you can anticipate that they’ll be taken off your teeth once you’ve finished wearing your last set of aligners.
Does Removing Invisalign Attachments Hurt?
It’s natural to worry about associated aches when it comes time to eradicate the lumps attached to your teeth for so long. Your dentist knows that this is a source of anxiety and will do everything they can to set your mind at ease. Fortunately, taking the attachments off is simple, straightforward, and can potentially be completed within 15 minutes or less.
How Are Invisalign Attachments Removed?
For this procedure, your provider uses a specially designed dental instrument with a rounded head, or “bur”, made of diamond or carbide that’s strong enough to gently abrade the bonding material holding your attachments in place. You may feel vibrations in your teeth as your provider works, but because the enamel itself isn’t thinned, the process doesn’t usually result in pain or sensitivity. They carefully guide this device around each attachment to smooth them down, then polish your recently realigned teeth to a shine.
As you can see, there’s no reason to worry about having your Invisalign attachments removed!
About the Author
Dr. Kevin Grill enjoys helping people of all ages build and maintain beautiful, healthy smiles. He earned his dental degree from The Ohio State University and has completed ongoing education in endodontics, oral surgery, and more. Today, he’s Invisalign certified, making him an expert who can help realign your teeth. His family-friendly practice is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to enhance patient comfort while delivering accurate, long-lasting results. You can request a cosmetic consultation on the website or call (937) 843-3932.