Invisalign is for patients who want straighter teeth without the problems associated with traditional braces. Invisalign is more comfortable and more discreet than ordinary braces.
However, only some patients are good candidates for this product. We will explain which patients should consider Invisalign and which should consider other orthodontic correction types.
Good Candidates for Invisalign
People who are good candidates for Invisalign have the following:
- Minor to moderate dental alignment issues
- Generally good oral health with no untreated cavities or active gum disease
- Ability to follow instructions and wear the aligners as directed for a minimum 22 hours a day
- Ability to care for the aligners properly with regular cleaning
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign treatment involves changing aligners every two weeks to nudge the teeth into their best positions slowly. Invisalign may cause some discomfort when you change the aligners, but overall, it will be less noticeable than with conventional braces.
Invisalign allows patients to correct their orthodontic alignment without drawing attention to themselves. As your smile slowly shifts, your peers will not notice the aligners but will see your improved appearance.
Patients Who May Need Other Methods
Patients who need extensive orthodontic correction may do better with traditional braces. Invisalign can correct minor to moderate malocclusion and bite issues, but traditional braces are more appropriate for more complex cases.
Expert Tips for Successful Invisalign Treatment
- Be sure to wear your aligners for a minimum 22 hours per day. You must remove your aligners to eat, drink anything other than water, and care for your teeth. Otherwise, the aligners need to stay in.
- After Invisalign treatment, wear a retainer. Your new tooth alignment may slip back to where it was before if you skip this step, wasting your investment in straighter teeth.
Contact Dr. Suzanne Stock, Orthodontist
Invisalign can be an excellent tool to improve your appearance and your oral health. Contact us to set up a consultation to assess your orthodontic needs and determine whether you are a good candidate for Invisalign.