Invisalign is a discreet, comfortable, and effective orthodontic treatment for adults. However, it’s not the right solution for everyone. It requires compliance to work, so patients with poor discipline might be better off with more traditional braces. It also may not be effective for severe crowding, spacing, overbite, or underbite. For more information on whether Invisalign might be suitable for your specific needs, you can check out our Invisalign FAQ section.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment for straightening crooked teeth and aligning the bite. It uses a series of custom-made clear plastic trays that you wear over your teeth, shifting them slowly until they straighten.
You’ll likely experience some discomfort, just as you would with traditional braces, while your teeth move into place. This will diminish after every tray change.
You’ll need to clean your trays on a daily basis, usually at the same time you brush and floss. This will remove bacteria that could cause odours and staining of the trays or the teeth they touch.
How long will Invisalign take?
During the initial consultation, a digital scan and impressions will be taken of your teeth. These will then be used to create your customized aligners.
The duration of your treatment will depend on the severity of your alignment issues. Simple cases, such as minor crowding, may resolve more quickly than complex issues like severe overbites or underbites.
Your compliance will also impact how long it takes for you to straighten your teeth. It’s important to wear your aligners for the recommended 22 hours per day, removing them only when eating or brushing.
It’s also helpful to return for regular checkups, which can help keep your progress on track. Your orthodontist will be able to tell you if your aligners have done all they can and it’s time for a new set.
How do I know if I’m a good candidate for Invisalign?
If you have crooked teeth or bite problems that require attention but do not prevent eating or speaking, then you might be a good candidate for Invisalign. People of any age can benefit from the straightening treatment, but teens and adults are most commonly patients because they are more likely to be responsible about wearing the trays and only taking them out for meals and oral care.
People who smoke or have a habit of regularly removing their trays for snacking may not be good candidates because this can stain their teeth and irritate the gums. The most important thing is that you visit a qualified orthodontist to find out if you are an Invisalign candidate.
How do I know if Invisalign is right for me?
Invisalign can be a great option for people with mild to severe misaligned teeth. It can treat crooked teeth, overcrowding, gaps, and even jaw issues like an overbite or underbite.
The only way to know if you are a good candidate for Invisalign is by speaking with a dentist or orthodontist. They will be able to assess your smile and recommend the best course of treatment for you.
Some people may not be candidates for Invisalign because they do not wear their aligners as instructed. They should only be removed when eating or drinking (except water). If they are not worn as directed, the treatment will take longer than expected.
How do I know if Invisalign is right for my child?
Only you know whether your child is mature enough to handle wearing and caring for Invisalign. Kids can be forgetful, misplacing their aligners or even leaving them off for long periods of time. This can affect the results of their treatment and the quality of their smile.
Kids can feel self-conscious about wearing braces, but the invisible Invisalign solution can correct teeth misalignments and give them a beautiful smile for life. The best way to determine if Invisalign is right for your child is to schedule an orthodontic consultation.
Orthodontics is typically covered by dental insurance, Flex Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts or by a payment plan.
How do I know if Invisalign is right for my family?
There are a few key factors that determine whether or not Invisalign is the right treatment for your child. One is their commitment to wearing them as prescribed, for at least 22 hours a day. They also must remember to remove them before eating or drinking, and to put them back in immediately afterward.
Invisalign does require a certain level of discipline, but the benefits are well worth it. Invisalign is more comfortable than traditional braces, and the results are fast-paced. Many patients see changes within just two days of starting the process! The aligners can be expensive, but they are often covered by dental insurance and can be paid for using a Flex Spending Account (FSA), Health Savings Account (HSA), or payment plan.