The idea of avoiding standard metal braces and yet having a perfectly aligned smile is exciting. The chances are high that you have heard some great things about Invisalign and are wondering whether the treatment is right for you. The best way to get a fair answer is to visit your Transcona dentist for a consultation. They will do the required imaging tests and a detailed oral exam to determine if Invisalign will work for your orthodontic concerns. Here are some essential things to know.
What exactly is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a specific brand name for clear aligners. Instead of standard braces, which usually have wires and brackets, Invisalign involves using clear plastic aligners that almost feel invisible – Hence the name! Invisalign was the first company to offer the treatment, although there are many other options now.
How do Invisalign aligners work?
Compared to conventional braces, Invisalign aligners are different and almost look like retainers. The trays are customized for each patient and are made of a strong plastic material. The aligners put gentle pressure on the teeth to shift them to the desired positions. Your dentist will usually use 3D imaging technology to identify orthodontic concerns and how aligners should be designed to achieve the desired results. You can also get a mockup review of your smile after the end of the treatment. Many patients decide to use Invisalign after seeing the potential results.
Invisalign treatment involves getting a set of numbered aligners, and these aligners must be replaced as suggested by your dentist after approximately two weeks. You are required to wear these aligners for at least 22 hours each day, and the good news is these are removable, so you can eat and drink everything you like and continue to maintain your oral hygiene habits. Discipline is everything when it comes to deciding and committing to Invisalign treatment.
Is Invisalign ideal for all orthodontic issues?
Not entirely. Invisalign is usually recommended for mild to moderate misalignment issues. Generally, Invisalign is ideal for treating overcrowded, gapped, and misaligned teeth. Malocclusion, which refers to misalignment of teeth, is often treated with Invisalign.
Know the benefits
Expectedly, for many adult patients, the ability to have straight teeth without metal braces is the foremost reason to consider Invisalign. Because the aligners are removable, there are no diet changes. Invisalign treatment is also flexible. Let’s say you have to be at a work meeting and don’t want to show your braces. You can remove the aligners as required. Unlike dental veneers that also fix gapped teeth, Invisalign actually straightens your smile to offer permanent results, which means the outcome is not just cosmetic.
On the flip side
Invisalign is expensive compared to traditional braces, but you can always use flexible payment plans to cover the costs. The treatment requires commitment because unless you wear the aligners for at least 22 hours, you cannot expect to see results. In short, Invisalign is not for forgetful people. Also, in extreme cases, the treatment is not ideal.
Meet your dentist for Invisalign today
Now that you know the basics, start by meeting your dentist. They will first check your bite, the orthodontic concerns you have, and whether Invisalign is a good choice. If they find that the existing issues can be fixed with clear aligners, they will proceed with additional imaging tests. You can always discuss instructions and other aspects that matter for the treatment. Getting the perfect smile with Invisalign can take time, and you have to be very particular about regular appointments, as your dentist will want to check the progress. You can find an Invisalign dentist in Transcona through an online search.