If you’re like most people who are considering orthodontic treatment, you’re probably thrilled to have a discreet, comfortable option like Invisalign in Westminster. But one of the first questions many people have is, “I’m not sure if I’m a good candidate or not. Will it work for me?” Keep reading to find out which issues Invisalign can correct and learn about the many benefits it provides, besides the most obvious advantage of being invisible!
What Are the Benefits of Invisalign?
- Flexibility– To get your results on time, you have to wear your trays for 22 hours per day. However, you do have the flexibility to remove them for special events such as a wedding or job interview, and you won’t have any dietary restrictions the way you would with traditional braces.
- Results are usually faster – Oftentimes, Invisalign is faster than traditional braces (the averageis 9-18 months, as opposed to 12-24 months for metal braces).
- Cleaner teeth and gums – Since you’ll remove your trays beforehand, brushing and flossing is so mucheasier than in metal braces. When your treatment is done, you’ll be more likely to have a smile that’s both healthy and beautiful.
- Comfort– Invisalign aligner trays are smooth and comfortable, so you won’t have to deal with irritation to your lips and cheeks.
What Kind of Issues Can Invisalign Correct?
Invisalign works on the same principle as regular braces by applying pressure to the teeth, moving them into their ideal positions over time. It can correct many different mild to moderate alignment issues, including:
- An overbite or underbite
- Crowding
- Gaps
- Open bite
- Mildly rotated teeth
Are You a Candidate For Invisalign?
Everyone has a unique case, so the best way to determine if Invisalign is right for you is to schedule a consultation with an Invisalign-certified dentist. Here are some of the factors they’ll look at before making a recommendation:
- Severity– For more severe issues, traditional braces may be necessary to give you the best results. Examples include severely rotated teeth or cases in which the lower jaw itself needs to be significantly shifted.
- Oral health– If you have untreated cavities or active gum disease, a dentist will likely recommend addressing those needs first.
- Age & Compliance – Since it’s critical to wear the aligner trays at least 22 hours a day, discipline and a commitment are important. That’s why, generally speaking, Invisalign is a better choice for adults or young adults rather than young teens.
Fortunately, Invisalign works for the majority of patients. But regardless of which type of orthodontic treatment is right for you, straightening your smile is a great decision that will pay off for life.
About the Author
Dr. Joanne Bancroft is an Invisalign-certified dentist in Westminster who is thrilled to offer an alternative to traditional braces that still provides fantastic results. In her 15 years of practice, she’s used Invisalign to correct a variety of bite and alignment issues with great success. If you have any questions about Invisalign or want to schedule a consultation, she can be reached via her website.