Those who are thinking about straightening their crooked teeth, especially adults, may want to speak with their dentists about Invisalign. The device is a clear, removable tooth alignment device that gently shifts teeth into a more appropriate position without having to undergo a permanent installation of metal braces. There are a number of advantages to using Invisalign, but it does not come without a few faults. Dentists believe it is a great alternative to braces and can help adults who never underwent tooth straightening create a beautiful smile without feeling self-conscious wearing braces. According to Dr. Farshad Bakhtyari of Premier Dental Care in Northern Virginia states, “Invisalign is a great way of straightening, closing spaces, or fixing crowding with a series of clear removable plastic trays that you wear on your teeth. The length of treatment depends on the case, but typically we can achieve the desired result from 6 months to a year’s time. The beauty of Invisalign is that the patient can remove the trays to eat, drink and clean their teeth as opposed to conventional braces.”
In addition to comfort when eating and drinking, Invisalign is cosmetically superior to braces. The device is transparent so it is difficult to determine whether or not someone is wearing it. Some believe Invisalign is also more comfortable than braces, which can sometimes pinch and stick if wires get twisted or are not installed properly. There are some side effects of traditional braces that are not a problem with Invisalign. They are easier to clean, they do not exert as much force when moving the teeth cutting down on pain, and you will not have to limit what you eat since the device is removed when dining.
Some believe Invisalign works quicker than traditional braces. As Dr. Bakhtyari reported, within a year, the patient’s teeth will more than likely be as he wants them. As many people will tell you who spent their adolescence in braces, it can be a long endeavor with painful adjustments and personal horror stories involving wires, chewing gum, and an unappealing smile.
Improvement at a Price
Invisalign, while typically considered an improvement over traditional dental adjustment options like braces and retainers, is not without its faults. For starters, it is typically more expensive than metal braces. In most cases, insurance companies are unwilling to assist much with the cost of braces, but this is especially true with Invisalign. At most, they would pay the cost of traditional braces and the patient would make up the expense for the convenience and aesthetic beauty of the transparent device.
Another disadvantage of Invisalign corresponds with its most impressive benefit:”Because you can remove the device, this means it is not working at all times. Patients need to be consistent with their wearing of Invisalign and replace the device immediately after eating or cleaning it. You should also make sure you clean your teeth after eating before replacing the device. While most dentists recommend brushing after each meal, it’s even more necessary when wearing Invisalign.
What Invisalign May Not Do
Some tooth problems will not be conquered by Invisalign. Your dentist will work with you during the decision-making process to determine if the device will be the best choose for fixing your problem areas. Patients who grind or clench their teeth may have a problem wearing Invisalign because these actions can damage the device. This is not a common problem, but if you deal with stress in this manner, or it is simply a habit, speak with your dentist about its impact on any corrective procedures. They may also have some suggestions for breaking the grinding or clenching habit, which can be detrimental to your oral health in other ways.
Invisalign is a great option for many adults who are considering correcting their problem with crooked or misaligned teeth. No one wants to deal with the hassle of braces, especially those who are older and may feel embarrassed or self-conscious wearing something typically associated with children and adolescents. If you are ready to improve your smile, and you would like to do it in the least noticeable, most comfortable way available, speak with your dentist about Invisalign.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
