Traditional braces can often be considered unsightly for many adults. Spending months or years with metal discs and wires in their mouth is not their idea of paradise. Then came the invention of Invisalign – the clear retainer-based correction system. In the years since its inception, our Smyl Manatee dentist practice has often been asked if Invisalign is the right choice for you.
It’s amazing how dental technology has advanced in the availability of different orthodontic options. We recommend speaking with a dentist, orthodontist, or cosmetic dentistry expert trained in the Invisalign system, as they understand the process and have seen the results the system can achieve. Understand that you may not leave with a recommendation to use the system to fix your alignment issues.
Invisalign Facts
How can you determine which braces are right for you? Here are 15 facts about Invisalign that you need to know in order to make an informed decision about your orthodontic treatment.
Fact #1- Invisalign braces generally cost more than regular braces. This is because laboratory fees for Invisalign are more expensive than the fees for traditional braces. Those fees are paid directly to the manufacturer, Align Technology.
Fact #2- Even though the technology is constantly improving, there are some complex orthodontic cases that aligners cannot effectively treat or correct.
Fact #3- Invisalign braces are no more or less uncomfortable or painful than metal braces. All braces cause some level of discomfort because they are designed to apply consistent pressure on your teeth to maximize movement.
Fact #4- It generally takes the same amount of time to treat and correct your teeth, regardless of whether you choose Invisalign or traditional braces.
Fact #5- Invisalign is a specialized tool used for straightening your teeth. The manufacturer, Align Technology, doesn’t diagnose or treat individual cases. Success and/or failure depend on the skill of the orthodontist providing the treatment.
Fact #6- An orthodontist or dentist trained in Invisalign treatment is likely to have successful outcomes with this method.
Fact #7- Over 1,000,000 patients worldwide have been treated with Invisalign, and the number is increasing on a daily basis.
Fact #8- Invisalign trays are removable, giving you the flexibility of eating and drinking whatever you want and brushing and flossing your teeth as you normally would.
Fact #9- There are no wires or metal brackets with Invisalign treatment. This eliminates the need for these types of adjustments at your office visits.
Fact #10- Invisalign braces control both the force and timing of the force application. During each treatment stage, only certain teeth are moved. Your orthodontist determines these movements as they map out your personal treatment plan.
Fact #11- Invisalign aligners are made from thermoplastic material and look like teeth-whitening trays. Your aligners are custom-made and designed to move your teeth in the sequence determined by your doctor.
Fact #12- You should choose an Invisalign treatment provider based on your own personal comfort and confidence levels.
Fact #13- Many patients require retainers after Invisalign treatment to keep the teeth from shifting back to their pre-treatment positions.
Fact #14- You are required to wear Invisalign aligners for between 20 and 22 hours every day. Desired results cannot be achieved when the aligners are not worn for the specified amount of time.
Fact #15- Invisalign aligners are changed about every 2 weeks. Complex movements require 3 weeks of wear and less complex movements require 10 days of wear.
Invisalign is a great orthodontic treatment option to consider.
So if you’re looking for a way to improve your smile without the look of braces, give us a call at ((941)792-7778 to schedule a consultation!
Contact us today or visit our website for more information at www.smylmanatee.com