5 Reasons to Consider Invisalign®
Invisalign® is a brand of clear, custom-fit aligners (sometimes called trays or retainers) that, for some people, are a great alternative to traditional braces. Using a 3D scan to help us map out a custom treatment plan, clear plastic aligners are created to gently and progressively apply pressure to your teeth, gradually shifting them.
Whether you’re a teen dreading the thought of braces, a curious parent, or an adult who may be looking for a more discreet option, it’s easy to understand why you may be wondering if Invisalign® is right for you. Here, we share some reasons to consider Invisalign®, as well as a few notes on why it doesn’t work for everyone.
You Can Eat Whatever You Want
Many orthodontists ask patients who wear traditional braces to avoid hard or sticky foods, such as certain kinds of candy, popcorn, nuts, corn on the cob, and whole apples. Because you remove your Invisalign® trays every time you eat, you can eat what you want! You just need to make sure you brush your teeth before popping your trays back in.
They Can Be More Comfortable
The brackets and wires on traditional braces can sometimes irritate your cheeks. But Invisalign® trays are made from smooth plastic that’s fitted to your mouth. You also don’t have to worry about loose wires poking your cheeks. An added bonus? Invisalign® retainers can also help if you grind your teeth at night.
It’s Easier to Clean Your Teeth
Since you can remove your trays when you brush and floss your teeth, you don’t have to work around any brackets and wires. We do recommend brushing your teeth every time you eat, though. Although you may find yourself brushing more often, a dentist would never consider that a bad thing!
They’re Nearly Invisible
Many kids, teens, and adults prefer more discreet orthodontic treatment. Whereas braces require wires, bands, and brackets that protrude from the mouth, Invisalign® trays are clear and custom-fit your mouth, making them nearly invisible to other people.
Invisalign® Has History
You may consider clear aligners new technology, but Invisalign®, the oldest clear aligner system, was invented in 1997 and launched into the U.S. market in 1999. Here are some stats according to recent market research:
- Invisalign® is the largest producer of clear aligners.
- By 2018, 5 million people had used it.
- The clear aligner market is expected to reach 32.2 billion by 2030.
But wait: Invisalign® Isn’t for Everyone
For effective treatment, you must wear your aligners 20 to 22 hours a day. If you’re a parent, that means you’ll need to decide if your child can be trusted to wear them consistently. If you’re an adult, you need to be honest with yourself. Will you wear them as much as you should?
Certain types of previous dental work and some orthodontic issues, such as severely rotated teeth, complex teeth crowding, or an extreme bite, may require traditional braces. If you’re curious if Invisalign® would work for you, schedule an appointment for an exam. Your dentist can tell you whether you’re a good candidate.
Find Out if Invisalign® is Right for You!
If you’re curious about Invisalign®, Hammock Bay Dental is ready to help. We’ve worked hard to make our consultations as stress-free as possible, with a luxurious and relaxed setting—and a team that cares.