Are you considering ways to straighten your teeth without the hassle of traditional metal braces? If so, Invisalign could be the solution for you. Using comfortable transparent aligners to move teeth into position gradually, Invisalign treatment provides an attractive and discreet alternative that looks better and allows for more freedom during treatment than permanent metal braces. Let’s look at how Invisalign treatment works and why it may be right for you!
Definition of Invisalign Treatment
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to move teeth into the desired position gradually. It is an alternative to traditional braces with no metal brackets or wires and can be easily removed when eating, brushing, or flossing. The aligners are custom-made for each patient based on their unique dental situation and needs.
Who is a Candidate for Invisalign?
Adults with minor dental issues such as crowding, spacing, or overbite can be ideal candidates for Invisalign treatment. However, it may not be suitable for those with severe misalignment issues or complex bite problems that require special attention and care from an orthodontist. It also should not be used by young children whose mouths are still developing.
Types of Invisalign Treatments
A. Clear Aligners
These are the most common type of aligners used in Invisalign treatment. They consist of clear plastic trays that fit directly over the teeth and slowly move them into the desired position.
B. Lingual Braces
This type of Invisalign treatment uses brackets and wires on the back side of the teeth to gradually move them into alignment. It is a great option for those who want to keep their braces hidden from view, as it is less noticeable than traditional braces.
C. Removable Retainers
These retainers can be placed after treatment with clear aligners is complete to maintain the newly straightened teeth in place. They should be worn at night or during periods when the aligners are not worn.
D. Veneers and Crowns (Cosmetic Dentistry)
These can be used with Invisalign treatment to improve the overall look of your teeth. Porcelain veneers are thin shells that fit over the front surfaces of your teeth, while crowns are custom-fitted caps that provide additional strength and stability to weakened or damaged teeth.
Pros and Cons of Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces
A. Pros of Invisalign
1. Clearness and discretion
The clear plastic trays used with Invisalign make it much less noticeable than traditional braces, allowing you to maintain your professional appearance throughout treatment.
2. Comfort and Easiness to Put On/Take Off
The aligners are much more comfortable than traditional braces, as no metal brackets or wires cause irritation and discomfort. In addition, the aligners can easily be removed when needed for eating, cleaning, or other activities.
3. No Metal Brackets or Wires
Since no metal is involved with Invisalign treatment, it eliminates the risk of injury from sharp edges or poking wires. This also prevents damage to teeth from bands, wires, and brackets that may occur during traditional braces treatment.
4. Damage to Teeth from Bands, Wires, and Brackets
Another benefit of Invisalign compared to traditional braces is that it does not cause any damage to teeth from the bands, wires, and brackets used.
Cons of Invisalign
1. Costly for Some Patients
While Invisalign is usually more expensive than traditional braces, some insurance companies may cover part. However, it is still important to remember that treatment may be costly for some patients.
2. Not Suitable for Severe Dental Conditions
As mentioned before, Invisalign may not be suitable for those with severe misalignment issues or complex bite problems that require special attention and care from an orthodontist.
3. Long Treatment Periods (12-24 months) vs. Traditional Braces (6-18 months)
Since Invisalign treatment is typically more gradual than traditional braces, it usually takes longer for the teeth to be moved into their desired position. The average treatment time ranges from 12-24 months, compared to 6-18 months with traditional braces.
Common Problems with Invisalign Treatments
A. Poor Fit of the Aligners Causing Pain or Discomfort
If the aligners do not fit properly, they can cause pain and discomfort to the mouth and gums, which may require adjustments or multiple sets of aligners to achieve a better fit.
B. Difficulty Keeping Aligners Clean
Over time, plaque and bacteria can build up on the aligners if they are not kept clean, which can cause teeth and gum sensitivity and bad breath. It is important to brush and floss regularly and rinse the aligners with a special cleaning solution designed for Invisalign treatment.
C. Difficulty Wearing the Aligners for the Recommended Length of Time
As mentioned before, it is important to wear the aligners for at least 22 hours per day to be effective. This can be difficult for many patients due to their busy lives or forgetting to put them back in after eating or drinking.
D. Crowded Teeth Are Difficult to Move with Invisalign
For those with very crowded teeth, moving them into alignment using Invisalign may take longer because of the need for multiple sets of aligners.
E. Sensitive Teeth or Gums Due to Pressure from the Aligners
As with traditional braces, Invisalign can cause teeth and gums to become sensitive due to the pressure from the aligners. It is important to be aware of any discomfort caused by this and talk to your orthodontist about ways to reduce it.
Conclusion
Invisalign clear aligners offer an alternative to traditional braces and are a great solution for achieving a straighter and brighter smile. They come with several benefits, such as being comfortable, convenient, and fast-acting compared to braces. Additionally, they require fewer visits to the dentist. Therefore, with this information in mind, you must book a dental visit with the best dentist in Chino to determine whether or not Invisalign is right for you. The team of experts at this dental office has all been trained on how to properly fit, adjust and monitor your treatment process while helping you achieve the smile you desire. So don’t hesitate any longer – decide today to benefit your life tomorrow by booking an appointment with the best dentist in Chino for Invisalign clear aligners!