Traditional braces can often be considered unsightly for many adults. Spending months or years with metal discs and wires in their mouth is not their idea of paradise. Then came the invention of Invisalign – the clear retainer-based correction system. In the years since its inception, our practice has often been asked if Invisalign is the right choice for you.
How can you determine which braces are right for you? Here are 15 facts about Invisalign that you need to know in order to make an informed decision about your orthodontic treatment
Fact 1
Invisalign braces generally cost more than regular braces. This is because laboratory fees for Invisalign are more expensive than the fees for traditional braces. Those fees are paid directly to the manufacturer, Align Technology.
Fact2
Even though the technology is constantly improving, there are some complex orthodontic cases that aligners cannot effectively treat or correct.
Fact 3
Invisalign braces are no more or less uncomfortable or painful than metal braces. All braces cause some level of discomfort because they are designed to apply consistent pressure on your teeth to maximize movement.
Fact 4
It generally takes the same amount of time to treat and correct your teeth, regardless of whether you choose Invisalign or traditional braces.
Fact 5
Invisalign is a specialized tool used for straightening your teeth. The manufacturer, Align Technology, doesn’t diagnose or treat individual cases. Success and/or failure depend on the skill of the orthodontist providing the treatment.
Fact 6
An orthodontist or dentist trained in Invisalign treatment is likely to have successful outcomes with this method.
Fact 7
Over 1,000,000 patients worldwide have been treated with Invisalign, and the number is increasing on a daily basis.
Fact 8
Invisalign trays are removable, giving you the flexibility of eating and drinking whatever you want and brushing and flossing your teeth as you normally would.
Fact 9
There are no wires or metal brackets with Invisalign treatment. This eliminates the need for these types of adjustments at your office visits.
Fact 10
Invisalign braces control both the force and timing of the force application. During each treatment stage, only certain teeth are moved. Your orthodontist determines these movements as they map out your personal treatment plan.
Fact 11
Invisalign aligners are made from thermoplastic material, and look similar to teeth-whitening trays. Your aligners are custom-made and designed to move your teeth in the sequence determined by your doctor.
Fact 12
You should choose an Invisalign treatment provider based on your own personal comfort and confidence levels.
Fact 13
Many patients require retainers after Invisalign treatment in order to keep the teeth from shifting back to their pre-treatment positions.
Fact 14
You are required to wear Invisalign aligners for between 20 and 22 hours every day. Desired results cannot be achieved when the aligners are not worn for the specified amount of time.
Fact 15
Invisalign aligners are changed about every 2 weeks. Complex movements require 3 weeks of wear and less complex movements require 10 days of wear.
Invisalign is a great option to consider for orthodontic treatment.