Impressive technological advancements give local orthodontists more ways to successfully straighten teeth. Align technology puts a great deal of effort into research to improve the way clear aligners shape smiles. Invisalign®’s patented SmartTrack® material helps move teeth more precisely. Newer features allow orthodontists to treat even more cases effectively and cost-efficiently.
As with any dental treatment, however, you should discuss the opportunities with your local orthodontist before making a decision. Here are some points you might want to discuss.
Pros of Invisalign® Aligners
Invisalign® aligners are a removable, discreet orthodontic treatment. They consist of a series of custom-made, clear trays that you wear for several weeks at a time. As your teeth gently move into position, you move on to the next set of trays.
In 2020, over 2,000 Realself reviews revealed that 88% of patients gave Invisalign® treatment a “worth it” rating. Most patients appreciate the pros of Invisalign®, such as:
- Effective: A National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) systematic review of the clinical effectiveness of Invisalign® aligners confirmed its ability to straighten crooked teeth and correct crowding, as well as underbite, overbite, or crossbite dental formations.
- Near invisible: The transparency of Invisalign® clear aligners is a big hit with patients. A nearly-invisible dental straightening approach appeals to everyone, from adults who need to interact comfortably in business and social situations to teens who are looking for a way to discreetly improve their smiles.
- Comfortable: Invisalign® clear aligners are custom fit to each patient’s mouth and dental structure, which make them extremely comfortable to wear.
- Easy to remove: The Invisalign® trays can be removed when eating and drinking and for brushing or flossing.
- More food freedom: Invisalign® aligners allow wearers to continue enjoying all their favorite foods because they are removed when eating. Certain foods, such as chewy or sticky items, are off-limits with traditional braces because they can damage the appliance.
- Easier maintenance: Brushing and flossing can sometimes be tricky with metal braces. With Invisalign® aligners, wearers simply remove the trays to clean their teeth.
Considerations for Invisalign® Aligners
Here are some key points to keep in mind if you are considering this treatment method:
- Consistency: It takes commitment from the patient for Invisalign® aligners to deliver optimal results. They must be worn 20-22 hours per day for maximum effectiveness. Some patients are not able to commit to this level of consistency.
- Cost: Invisalign® treatment is an investment; however, Smile Doctors accepts most insurance and can check to see if a patient’s treatment is covered. Our local orthodontists even offer payment plans to fit within your budget.
- Attachments: There are some attachments, or tiny, teeth-colored dots, that are bonded to your teeth during treatment. They click into your aligners to help with the more complex movements. They are virtually invisible.
- Checkups: You may need to schedule a check-up with your local orthodontist every 6-8 weeks to assess the progress of your teeth realignment. These can easily be done virtually to fit your schedule though.
- Frequent brushing: You might need to carry a toothbrush with you, as your teeth should be cleaned whenever you remove your Invisalign® aligners to eat or drink.
- Staining: Coffee, tea, and soda can stain the aligners, and may need to be avoided during the treatment period.
Inquire About Invisalign® Treatment Today
Your local orthodontist can help weigh the pros and cons of Invisalign® clear aligners to determine if this teeth straightening treatment is right for you.
Talk to one of the skilled orthodontists from Smile Doctors today and find out whether Invisalign® aligners are right for your smile!
Invisalign®, the Invisalign logo, and iTero®, among others, are trademarks and/or service marks of Align Technology, Inc. or one of its subsidiaries or affiliated companies and may be registered in the U.S. and/or other countries.
