Is Invisalign Right For You?
If you haven’t heard of it, Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth. It can be more comfortable than traditional braces because there are no wires or tightening of brackets. However, Invisalign can cause some discomfort in the beginning as teeth shift into place, especially after tray changes. This discomfort should subside over time and can be reduced by using toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth.
During Invisalign treatment, your dentist will scan your teeth with an optical scanner that eliminates the need for impression “goop”. The digital model allows the doctor to create a series of clear aligners that are customized for you and your dental problems. This technology can predict your treatment outcome and fabricate custom trays in one step (think of the scanners at checkout in grocery stores).
Invisalign: The Clear Path to a Straighter Smile
Studies have shown that Invisalign is effective at correcting several types of malocclusions. These include crowding corrections that move teeth to close gaps, spacing corrections that make the front teeth more even, and bite corrections that address an overbite, underbite, or crossbite. However, Invisalign may not be as accurate for movements requiring more force or for bicuspid derotation and root movement.
Generally, Invisalign is a good choice for adults who have healthy teeth and gums. Those with gum disease, untreated cavities, or defective dental work should avoid this treatment. Additionally, it may not be a good option for those who are prone to biting their nails or chewing their tongue as these habits can cause the aligners to break or slip off of your teeth. Moreover, you must remember to remove and replace the aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water. Otherwise, food or drink can get into the trays and lead to bacteria growth along the teeth and gumline or stain your aligners or the teeth underneath them.