Many people visit their dentist to treat misaligned or crowded teeth with traditional braces. While braces are helpful, there are more modern options available, such as Invisalign. This form of treatment uses a transparent aligner to gently shift your teeth into place.
If you’re interested in Invisalign, what are the pros and cons of this treatment? Continue reading to learn more about Invisalign, including what it is, what it can address, and its pros and cons.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is the brand name of a form of aligner similar to braces. The aligner used in Invisalign is thin and clear, making it barely noticeable. It’s made from a flexible thermoplastic material.
Invisalign treatment gradually straightens your teeth as you wear your aligners. After a consultation with your dentist, they will create a treatment plan and fit your customized aligners.
You wear your aligners between 20 to 22 hours per day, changing to a new pair up to every 2 weeks, depending on your dentist’s instructions. Each set of aligners slowly shift your teeth into the correct place.
There are several conditions Invisalign can address.
When is Invisalign Used?
Invisalign is helpful for many teeth-related issues. This treatment can treat several dental problems, including:
If you’re interested in Invisalign, there are several types of treatment available. Your dentist can help you find the right aligners.
Types of Invisalign
The best type of Invisalign depends on the complexity of your issue. The needed adjustments affect how many aligners you may need and the time to reach your desired results.
Some of the available types of Invisalign include:
Invisalign Full
Invisalign Full is an alternative to traditional braces. It’s the original treatment method; used for more complex adjustments. Someone may wish to use Invisalign Full instead of standard braces for a more discreet look.
This form of treatment typically lasts between 12 to 18 months.
Invisalign Lite
Invisalign Lite is ideal for less complex alignment issues. This type of treatment is best for someone requiring teeth adjustment before receiving cosmetic work such as dental crowns or veneers.
Invisalign Teen
Children’s teeth grow with them as they age into adulthood. Traditional Invisalign treatment isn’t suited for teens, but Invisalign Teen is. This form of treatment can accommodate a teenager’s growing teeth.
Invisalign Teen aligners feature a blue dot indicator to help parents monitor how often their child is wearing them.
Invisalign i7
Invisalign i7 is the newest form of treatment available. It’s suitable for someone needing minor corrections, such as a single crooked tooth or overcrowded teeth. The treatment length for this form of Invisalign is typically shorter than other types of treatment.
While the different types of Invisalign treatments have different applications and use, they have similar benefits. If you’re debating Invisalign, what pros and cons does this treatment have?
What Are the Pros of Invisalign?
Easy Removal
You can’t remove traditional braces when eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth, but you can remove your Invisalign aligners whenever needed. Having removable aligners can make cleaning hard-to-reach places easier.
Virtually Invisible
Traditional metal braces are easily recognizable. While there is nothing wrong with recognizable braces, someone may feel insecure or uncomfortable. Invisalign is ideal for someone looking for a subtle treatment.
Because of the appearance of Invisalign aligners, they’re virtually invisible. Some people may not even notice you have them.
Easier Cleaning
You can easily brush and floss your teeth after removing your aligner. There isn’t a need to clean around the wires and brackets of traditional braces. You can reinsert your aligner after cleaning your teeth.
A 2017 study found that having a removable aligner can improve your health by reducing the number of bacteria that would normally linger on your teeth and gums.
Fewer Potential Problems
Traditional braces use brackets and wires, which may fall off or potentially break. Damaged braces can lead to a last-minute visit to your dentist. The clear aligners offered by Invisalign don’t have this potential problem.
What Are the Cons of Invisalign?
Compliance
You need to wear your aligners for approximately 20 to 22 hours every day during Invisalign treatment. Aligners are removable, so Invisalign may not be the best choice if you think you’ll remove your aligner often.
Food Limitations
Your teeth may feel sore from treatment when you remove your aligner to eat, drink, or brush your teeth. This soreness may limit the foods you can eat. You should avoid eating tough foods.
Removal During Eating & Drinking
While removing your aligner is helpful for cleaning, it can become tedious as you eat throughout the day. Food and drink may get into your aligner if not removed, and this can allow bacteria to grow near your teeth and gumline.
While Invisalign may not be for everyone, it has several benefits over traditional braces. If you’re interested in gentle and subtle treatment, Invisalign may be the right choice for you.
Speak With Your Dentist About Invisalign
Invisalign has many applications regardless of the severity of a dental problem. With a removable, translucent aligner, Invisalign offers several benefits. Your dentist can help you determine if this treatment is right for you.
If you’re interested in Invisalign, contact your dentist.
