Overview
Invisalign is a groundbreaking dental treatment for straightening teeth. Dental Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners instead of metal braces. The aligners are custom-made to fit over the teeth snugly. The aligners gradually move the teeth, resulting in a straight, attractive smile.
The Advantages of Dental Invisalign
Invisalign aligners look better than braces, which is why they’re popular. Unlike metal braces, often viewed as unsightly, Invisalign aligners are almost invisible. They allow users to improve their smiles without drawing unnecessary attention. Invisalign aligners are also removable. This trait provides a significant convenience factor. You should wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours daily, but you can take them off while eating, brushing, or flossing. This freedom makes oral hygiene easier. Compared to traditional braces, keeping teeth clean is relatively easy and convenient. The comfort with Invisalign further amplifies its appeal. The aligners gently shift teeth to their proper position. Traditional braces don’t have metal wires or brackets that can irritate your mouth. In many cases, Invisalign treatment is shorter than braces. The duration of Invisalign treatment varies for each person. On average, it takes 12 to 18 months, while traditional braces may take two years or longer.
Regular Maintenance and Monitoring
An essential aspect of this dental treatment that requires attention is the need for regular maintenance and monitoring. Invisalign aligners should be cleaned daily to prevent discoloration and odor. You need check-ups every 6-8 weeks for treatment progress and new aligner sets. Invisalign is flexible, but you must commit to aligner care and dentist visits.
Addressing the Drawbacks of Invisalign
Despite many advantages, Invisalign also has its downsides. Invisalign is a big challenge as it needs patients to be very compliant. Since the aligners can be removed, the wearer must keep them on for the required hours each day. If you don’t wear the aligners as told, your treatment may be delayed or fail. In addition, Invisalign is typically more expensive than traditional braces. Invisalign costs vary on alignment issues and number of aligners needed. Some dental plans cover Invisalign, but it may be too expensive for some patients. Limited treatment capabilities are another obstacle with Invisalign. Invisalign is great for mild to moderate alignment issues but not severe ones. Traditional braces are better at fixing severe dental problems. Each new set of aligners can cause discomfort. Some patients feel temporary discomfort when they use new aligners in treatment. It is usually more comfortable than traditional braces. However, this discomfort usually subsides in a few days.
Striking a Balance
Invisalign is popular for improving smiles discreetly and comfortably. Before deciding, it’s crucial to fully understand the treatment’s pros and cons. Consider your dental needs, lifestyle, and budget to decide if Invisalign suits you. Discuss these factors with your dentist to decide on a confident smile.
Book an Appointment
If you would like to book an appointment with one of our dentists and teams at Grand Family Dentistry, we invite you to contact us in Mandeville, Louisiana. We are here to help with all your Invisalign therapy needs!