Invisalign® is as effective as braces for most dental corrections. In some circumstances, the corrections needed to the alignment of a patient’s teeth may be too complex for Invisalign to correct on their own. Come in for a consultation with one of our dentists to find out if you are a good candidate for clear aligners.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign is one brand of clear aligners, an orthodontic device that corrects crooked teeth. Clear aligners, also known as invisible braces, are custom-made mouthpieces molded from medical-grade plastic that apply pressure to teeth, guiding them to the desired position. Clear aligners are a discreet alternative to traditional metal braces.
Shoppers should consider the benefits and drawbacks of both Invisalign and traditional braces to determine which one is better. Take a look at the pros and cons of clear aligners like Invisalign.
The Benefits of Clear Aligners
Appearance
Unlike metal braces, clear plastic Invisalign aligners closely fit a user’s teeth and are nearly invisible from a distance. A discreet style is one of the main reasons many people choose transparent aligners over braces.
Comfort
Clear aligners fit flush against teeth and don’t cause the cuts or discomfort that braces can. While wearers do experience some discomfort with teeth repositioning, the inside of the mouth is largely spared pain with Invisalign.
Ease of Brushing and Flossing
With clear aligners, users simply remove the mouthpiece and brush and floss normally. No need for a lengthy and challenging dental care process as with traditional braces.
No Danger With Hard or Chewy Foods
Braces wearers should avoid hard and chewy foods, including nuts, popcorn, and bagels, to prevent damage or irritation. But because people with aligners must remove them before eating, they don’t need to avoid these foods.
Fewer Orthodontist Visits
Some patients won’t need to visit the orthodontist as frequently with aligners as with braces. While Invisalign treatments usually require a visit every four to six weeks, some online companies provide customers with clear aligners and zero orthodontist visits, although this isn’t the best option for everyone. For braces treatment, customers must come into the office for every adjustment.
The Drawbacks of Clear Aligners
Not for Complex Corrections
Transparent aligners do not work for every situation and are typically best for people who need only minor straightening.
Must Remove to Eat
Patients may drink water when wearing Invisalign trays but should remove them whenever eating or drinking anything other than water. The plastic is soft and easily damaged by food. Additionally, the clear plastic stains easily and warps with heat, so users should remove the aligners when drinking hot or colorful beverages.
Requires Discipline
People must wear the Invisalign aligner at least 20 to 22 hours daily. Wearing them less often may slow progress or even harm the final results. Because it’s easy to take them out, only people who are disciplined enough to wear them the required number of hours each day should opt for clear aligners. Another concern, especially for kids, is losing aligners, which costs more money and extends treatment time.
More Tooth Brushing
Users with poor dental hygiene should not wear an Invisalign aligner as this can cause bad breath and cavities. After eating or drinking, wearers should ensure they clean their teeth with a thorough brushing. Because most people snack throughout the day, daily brushing time may double or triple when using Invisalign.
May Require Visible Attachments
Some people need small tooth attachments that connect to the clear aligners like buttons. These attachments help control tooth movements and must be attached and taken off by an orthodontist. As a result, users who need attachments may require more consultations than others, and the attachments are visible through the clear plastic.
Fix Your Teeth Without The Metal
Are you one of the millions of Americans interested in getting straight teeth but are not interested in walking around with a mouth full of metal? Our dental team understands. This is why we offer Invisalign® clear aligners to straighten your smile discreetly and comfortably.
The Invisalign system works by using custom-molded plastic aligners that gradually shift the alignment of the teeth. This system is as effective as traditional braces for most dental corrections, such as crowded or gapped teeth.
Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks before a new set is made, allowing your teeth time to adapt and shift into their proper alignment. This process is overseen by our dentists to help ensure your smile is progressing correctly to get you the smile you desire.
Our dentists Dr. Brian L. Porter or Dr. Kelley Joo, work with patients to help them come up with a treatment plan that makes them feel comfortable throughout their procedure. Learn more about dental sedation by contacting Brian L. Porter, DDS at 281-422-3415 today.
Brian L. Porter, DDS
1109 E. James Ave.
Baytown, TX 77520
281-422-3415
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