Prelude
The blog post "Is Invisalign Right For You?" provides a comprehensive guide to understanding if Invisalign is the right orthodontic treatment option for you. The article explains how Invisalign, a clear and removable alternative to traditional braces, works by gradually shifting teeth into their correct positions. It discusses the benefits of Invisalign, including comfort, convenience, and invisibility, making it a popular choice among adults and teens. However, the blog also outlines some limitations, such as not being suitable for severe orthodontic cases or for patients who might not be disciplined enough to wear them for the required 22 hours a day.
Introduction
Did you know that there are more than four million people in the U.S. who have braces at any given time? And, believe it or not, a fraction of these individuals are adults. While traditional metal braces are common for teenagers, many adults would prefer a more discreet way of adjusting their teeth & achieving a confident smile. However, when you want your teeth fixed, what other option do you have? The answer is Invisalign.
Let’s learn more about this innovative treatment below.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a teeth straightening process that uses clear aligner trays. These trays are custom-fit to the shape of your individual teeth. Throughout the Invisalign treatment, a series of retainers will be provided to you that will work to slowly and gradually adjust your teeth into proper alignment. Generally, you will change out the retainers every week or two.
Invisalign retainers need to be worn for about 20 to 22 hours per day. In fact, the only time they should be removed is when you are eating or drinking (unless you’re drinking water). They are comfortable, virtually invisible, and easy to remove. These trays are easy to maintain and use, and they allow you to continue on with your social life as if nothing has changed.
Benefits of Invisalign
The benefits of Invisalign are almost endless, but let’s take a look at some of the most common and popular benefits.
Invisible – The retainer trays are completely clear so they will never detract from your overall appearance.
Comfortable – The plastic used to make your custom-fit Invisalign trays is smooth. There are no sharp edges that may cut the inside of your cheek.
Removable – Invisalign trays simply pop out and pop right back in. This allows you to continue eating some of your favorite foods while still restoring your smile.
Time-saving – Invisalign is designed so you aren’t sitting in the dentist’s office every couple of weeks. In fact, you generally only need to visit the dentist every six weeks to get your new series of trays. Plus, with Invisalign, the treatment time is considerably less than with traditional braces.
No Food Restrictions – With most orthodontic treatment options, the list of restricted foods is quite long. This keeps you from enjoying some of your favorite foods and snacks. Luckily, with Invisalign, you can eat what you want without having to worry about damaging the trays, as you will remove them first.
Are You a Good Candidate for Invisalign?
There are many things that must be taken into consideration when determining whether you are a good fit for Invisalign treatment. Here are a few of them.
Age – Although not necessarily set in stone, Invisalign tends to be recommended most for adults. This is due to the fact that adults have a stronger commitment and more responsibility to the overall treatment. While teens can get Invisalign, it is important that they are willing and able to follow the treatment directions so the desired results can be achieved in the least amount of time as possible.
Good Oral Care Routine in Place – With traditional braces, you have to worry about the foods you eat. For instance, no more crunchy potato chips or sticky laffy taffy. However, you do need to currently have a solid routine for your oral hygiene, as the Invisalign retainers will need to be cleaned regularly. You will typically be sent home with a cleaning kit to help ensure your trays remain bacteria-free, but you must be committed to keeping the retainers clean as well.
Severity of Dental Issues – One of the most important things to keep in mind when determining if you are a good candidate for Invisalign is the dental issue you want to fix and the severity of the said issue. If your dental case is too severe, Invisalign is not ideal, as more advanced procedures may be necessary. Invisalign can treat underbite, overbite, crossbite, crowded teeth, and gapped teeth, as long as the case isn’t too severe. We can help determine the severity of your oral health issue in a consultation.
Dedication – Overall, the Invisalign treatment process is easy. However, because they can be removed unlike other orthodontic treatment options, it is important that you are dedicated to the treatment. Otherwise, it will not work.
Is Invisalign Right for Me?
Based on the information above, do you believe you would be a good candidate for Invisalign treatment? If any of the aforementioned candidacy points agree with your individual situation, then Invisalign may be a good fit.
To determine whether Invisalign treatment is an option for you, contact us today to schedule a consultation where we will assess your individual situation. In the event you are not a candidate for Invisalign, we are happy to discuss with you alternative treatment solutions for restoring your smile.