Are you unhappy with your smile? Your confidence could be shaken. If you’re unhappy with your teeth, you’re less likely to display a confident smile. Those around you may not even notice the problem with your teeth! On the other hand, people probably notice that you’re not comfortable with your smile.
This is a shame, because we all want to feel good about ourselves! Perhaps you’re considering orthodontics to solve the problem, but find that conventional braces are more noticeable than your malocclusion? Until now, you’ve been hesitant because you haven’t found the ideal solution. Invisalign could be that solution if the treatment is right for you. With Invisalign, you can smile without embarrassment.
Invisalign treatment is beneficial, but it’s not right for everyone. Find out if this invisible orthodontic treatment is right for you and what its benefits are.
Invisalign aligners: How they work and what to expect
You may have already heard about invisible orthodontics — and no, it’s not science fiction!
It might sound too good to be true, but invisible orthodontics is real. Invisalign is a popular treatment that’s called “invisible” because it uses clear aligners that are almost impossible to see. This modern technique helps fix different bite problems without the need for metal braces.
These aligners, or shells, are made from models of your teeth. Your dental specialist prescribes movements to correct your malocclusion, and then the manufacturer creates the aligners. These are made of a durable thermoplastic material. When you first wear your aligners, you may notice that they are almost invisible in your mouth, hence the term “invisible orthodontics.”
You should change your aligners approximately every two weeks. Treatment time varies between 8 and 15 months, depending on your case. Each aligner gradually changes the position of your teeth until they reach the final position prescribed by your orthodontist or dentist. In addition to changing your aligners, you should also meet with your dental specialist every 6 to 8 weeks during your Invisalign treatment for follow-up.
The benefits of invisalign
Invisalign treatment has several interesting advantages. Of course, the most obvious advantage of aligners is that they are very invisible. Invisible aligners allow you to regain your smile as soon as you begin treatment. Since they don’t use metal wires or brackets, aligners are not only “invisible,” but they are also comfortable.
Additionally, the clear aligners are removable. So, while you should wear them as often and for as long as possible, you only need to remove them to eat, drink, and brush your teeth. This means you don’t have to change your lifestyle or diet during your Invisalign treatment. Simply brush your teeth and clean the aligners thoroughly before putting them back in. Invisalign aligners are discreet for both you and those around you!
Another advantage of Invisalign technology is that it allows you to visualize your treatment before you even begin. Through virtual simulations, you can see the corrections that will be made to your teeth. This way, you know what to expect. Knowing the planned results encourages you to wear your aligners properly.
Treatable cases
While Invisalign treatment is popular and an attractive option for many, it’s unfortunately not right for everyone. In some cases, conventional orthodontic treatment is more appropriate to effectively achieve the desired results. For example, this is the case for someone who still has baby teeth or if the movement required is too significant.
Invisalign aligners can still correct several types of malocclusions. For treatment to be effective, you must be disciplined and wear the aligners day and night. Invisalign treatment is likely right for you if you have any of the following alignment issues:
- overlapping teeth
- spaced teeth
- crossbite (lateral misalignment of the jaws)
- overbite (upper teeth covering lower teeth)
- underbite (lower teeth protruding beyond the upper teeth)
However, there are other factors to consider when deciding whether aligners might be right for you. These include
- the space between your teeth
- the space for your tongue
- the movement of your temporomandibular joint with the aligners
The best person to advise you on this is your dental professional.
Signs you’re a perfect candidate for invisalign treatment
If you’re wondering whether Invisalign is right for you, here are some key signs that you could be an ideal candidate:
You’re committed to wearing the aligners
Invisalign success relies heavily on patient compliance. You must wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day to achieve the desired results. Since the trays are removable, it takes discipline to wear them consistently. If you’re someone who can stick to a routine and resist the temptation to leave them out for too long, Invisalign could be a perfect match.
You have all of your permanent teeth
Invisalign treatment is typically recommended for patients who have all their adult teeth. If you still have baby teeth or if your permanent teeth have not fully erupted, your orthodontist may suggest waiting a little longer or considering another treatment approach first.
You maintain good oral hygiene
Because Invisalign trays are in close contact with your teeth and gums, excellent oral hygiene is essential. You’ll need to brush and floss regularly and clean your aligners to avoid plaque buildup, staining, or infections. If you already take good care of your teeth, you’re more likely to succeed with Invisalign.
You’re a non-smoker (or willing to quit)
Smoking can stain your clear aligners and increase the risk of gum disease, making it incompatible with Invisalign treatment. If you smoke, you must remove the aligners when doing so—which can reduce your wear time and affect your progress. If you’re ready to quit smoking or are already a non-smoker, Invisalign is a better option for you.
You’re mature enough to handle the responsibility
Because Invisalign trays are removable, responsibility is key. Teenagers and adults who can commit to wearing, cleaning, and keeping track of their aligners will see the best results. Younger children or individuals who may lose or forget to wear their aligners consistently might benefit more from traditional braces.
You have the patience for gradual results
Invisalign is a process — results aren’t immediate. If you’re patient enough to trust the process and not rush it, Invisalign will work better for you.
The difference between traditional orthodontic treatment and Invisalign
If you’re considering orthodontic treatment to correct your teeth, you’re probably wondering what the differences are between Invisalign treatment and traditional orthodontic treatment. Of course, the most noticeable difference between the two approaches is aesthetics. This benefit may seem superficial, but it’s directly related to self-confidence. Most people struggle to maintain a confident smile when wearing braces.
Beyond aesthetics, aligners offer several advantages. As you now know, Invisalign aligners do not contain any wires or metal components. This means that in addition to being invisible, aligners are much less likely to irritate or ulcerate oral tissue. Aligners are therefore generally more comfortable than braces.
As we mentioned, aligners are also removable. With traditional orthodontic treatment, you have to be careful about what you eat. Braces also make cleaning your teeth more difficult. Invisalign not only allows you to eat and drink what you like, but also to brush your teeth as usual.
Additionally, Invisalign treatment is on average 20% faster than traditional orthodontic treatment. In both cases, you must meet with your dental specialist regularly. However, while braces must be adjusted during these appointments, aligners are simply replaced every two weeks.
Invisalign aligners are obviously a great option, but braces also have some advantages. Conventional braces offer better control over tooth movement. Therefore, in some cases, braces are more effective, while aligners can slip. If Invisalign isn’t right for you, there are also ceramic braces that are less noticeable.
Transform your smile with Coronado Canyon Dentistree
Ultimately, Invisalign treatment helps you feel good about yourself. Don’t let your teeth affect your confidence and feel free to smile or laugh freely. Invisalign can correct your misalignment and give you the confidence to smile with confidence!
At Coronado Canyon Dentistree in Henderson, we make it easy and comfortable to start your journey. Using advanced digital technology, our team creates a personalized plan designed just for you. From your first consultation to your final aligner, we focus on giving you clear guidance, a relaxed experience, and real results.
Curious if Invisalign is the right choice for you? Let’s find out together. Call us at (702) 660-7555 or book your appointment through our online contact form.