If a crooked smile is making you self-conscious, there’s no reason to fix it with a solution that only makes the feeling worse. For Invisalign patients, it’s possible to get straighter teeth without visible braces. You can speak, drink, eat, and enjoy your normal routines as your smile improves over time.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Your dentist first creates a digital plan to map out the straightening process. Dental X-rays and impressions are taken of your teeth, after which, a series of special trays are created for you. They’re custom-fitted to your mouth and shift your teeth by applying pressure in the right spots over time. As you progress through the trays, your teeth become straighter, eventually revealing a more attractive smile.
Why Patients Prefer Invisalign
There are many benefits to getting Invisalign rather than traditional braces. Here are the major points to consider when listing your pros and cons.
It’s Discreet
While many patients are fine with traditional metal braces, adults especially prefer Invisalign. The trays are made of a clear, flexible, FDA-approved plastic that is almost undetectable when worn. You can go about your day-to-day without worrying whether your friends, family, and coworkers are seeing you or your aligners.
It’s Comfortable
Invisalign trays are easy to wear. They’re crafted to fit your teeth exactly, with no metal parts to work around, so you don’t have to worry about them poking you in the gums or lips. As your teeth become straighter, you may experience some tension or pressure, but you’ll soon adjust without the need for brackets, wires, or headgear.
Maintenance is Easy
Braces can make it more difficult to floss, brush, and otherwise perform regular dental hygiene. Since Invisalign trays are removable, cleaning and caring for your aligners and your teeth requires the same effort as your normal routine. You can take them out and clean them, and ensure that you’re still able to reach all of your teeth.
Eat and Drink What You Want
While you should always protect your teeth and gums by eating fewer foods high in sugar or starch, it’s still good to know that Invisalign won’t stop you from enjoying your favorite snacks and beverages. Simply remove the trays before you eat or drink anything except water, and you avoid any stuck food situations that you might normally encounter with braces.
Get Straighter Teeth Sooner
Normally, Invisalign takes 9-15 months (12 on average) for best results. In contrast, traditional braces take 12-24 months on average. That means you may be able to enjoy the smile you want in less time, with less fuss, and less discomfort than with braces.
Which Option is Right for You?
Choosing Invisalign seems like a no-brainer, but there are a couple of cons that may give you some concern. Cost, for one, as Invisalign is generally more expensive than braces. And in certain cases, braces may also be the better option for more complex adjustments. Consulting with your dentist is always the primary step in selecting the best tooth straightening option to suit your personal needs.
Learn more about Invisalign at a consultation with Dr. Mullins. Schedule your appointment today.
This blog was originally published on April 24, 2015, but has since been updated.