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December 20, 2019For many people with crooked teeth, traditional metal braces are simply not an option. We understand that the idea of attaching metal appliances to the front of teeth doesn’t exactly appeal to everyone. Many adults and teenagers are seeking a more discreet way to straighten their teeth; that’s where Invisalign® comes in!
Clear aligners are the only wire-free, bracket-free option when it comes to braces. Wondering if you’re a candidate? Invisalign is a great option for almost all patients, but there are some cases that Invisalign won’t work for. The best way to find out if clear aligners will work for you is to schedule an initial consultation with your dentist.
Here are five other benefits that Invisalign offers:
1. Effective results
Invisalign wouldn’t be nearly as popular if it didn’t actually deliver beautiful smiles. An astounding seven million people have experienced the life-changing results of clear aligner treatments since Invisalign was first used in 2009. Made with SmartTrack® material, these aligners are proven to create more predictable, controlled tooth movements so your teeth are constantly being pushed in the right direction.
2. Faster treatment
Of course, treatment time is ultimately based on the patient’s needs, but Invisalign treatments are usually shorter than alternative options. Invisalign treatments typically last between 6 and 18 months compared to two years with traditional metal braces.
If time is an important factor for you, ask your dentist which option will help you achieve straight teeth faster.
3. More comfort
Aligners made by Invisalign are specifically created for each patient. The aligner is trimmed based on the wearer’s gum line to increase comfort.
One of the most unpleasant things about traditional metal braces is having the wires poke your cheeks after having them tightened. With Invisalign, you don’t have to worry about the pain of wires and brackets. You will also never need your braces tightened.
Invisalign offers much more comfort than traditional braces, however, the first few hours with a new aligner may cause slight discomfort while your teeth adjust.
4. No diet restrictions
Your clear aligners should be removed only while brushing your teeth and while eating. It may be slightly embarrassing to remove your aligners at lunch with coworkers, but the good news is that you can eat whatever you want! Plus, you can always go to the bathroom to take out the aligners or discreetly pull a napkin over your mouth.
Hard, sticky, and sweet foods aren’t off limits like they would be with traditional braces. We do encourage patients to maintain a healthy diet for the sake of your oral and overall health, but your aligner won’t be damaged due to certain foods.
5. Cleanliness
Invisalign trays are extremely easy to clean. When you brush your teeth in the morning and evening, simply remove the tray and rinse and brush it with your toothbrush. When you finish brushing your teeth, place the clean aligner back over your teeth.
Brackets and wires can make it difficult to properly clean your teeth. This often results in pockets of discoloration once the brackets have been removed. Thankfully, with Invisalign, you don’t have to worry about anything prohibiting you from maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile.
Learn If Invisalign® Is Right for You
Candidates for Invisalign include teens and adults with minor to moderate cases of gapped or crowded teeth, overbite, underbite, or crossbite. Severe cases will typically require an alternative treatment option.
Because Invisalign trays are removable, Invisalign patients should also be responsible and dedicated to improving their smile.
Schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Abbey Lee at Smiles 4 Grant Park today to begin your journey to a straighter smile. Call us at 404.328.7177.