If you’re wondering whether or not straightening your teeth is worth the investment, then it’s likely you haven’t considered the full costs of living with misaligned teeth. Fair or not, it’s a fact of life that people make judgments based on appearances, so taking care of that gap between your teeth could make all the difference in your next job interview. Aside from affecting your looks, misaligned teeth are harder to clean, which means that they are more vulnerable to decay. Aligning your teeth today could save you from dental bills and physical pain down the road.
While no one wants crooked teeth, most people don’t want braces either. They are far more noticeable than a slight overbite, and they are difficult to clean. Fortunately, there’s an alternative: Invisalign aligners. These “Clear braces” are preferable to traditional wire braces in every way, but they also require some special care and a level of commitment. Since Invisalign is a long term investment, you need an experienced Invisalign dentist who will listen to your needs and concerns. Here are answers to typical questions that patients have about Invisalign aligners.
What is Invisalign?
Unlike traditional braces, which straighten teeth using a system of brackets and metal wires, Invisalign aligners are custom-made, see-through plastic trays that slip over your teeth. They tend to be more comfortable since they don’t irritate the teeth and gums as much, and they can be removed before eating. True to their name, Invisalign aligners are invisible to the casual observer. Best of all, they can straighten your teeth twice as fast as braces.
How is Invisalign fitted?
Since everyone’s teeth are unique, aligners must be carefully crafted to fit in your mouth. In addition to taking x-rays and photos, your dentist will make a mold of your teeth and send it all to Align Technology’s laboratory. The technicians at Align Technology work closely with your dentist to create personalized trays that will push your teeth in the right direction. Once finished, your aligners will be mailed to your doctor’s office for you to pick up.
Who can benefit from Invisalign over traditional braces?
Invisalign aligners can address most problems that traditional braces are typically used for. More severe cases of misalignment may require metal braces, but many patients now can get the same results in half the time thanks to Invisalign aligners. Invisalign was originally only available for fully grown adults, but the company that makes them now also offers aligners for younger patients as well.
Why is Invisalign important to oral health?
Misaligned teeth can harbor bacteria in hard to clean crevices, which can lead to decay, toothaches and expensive dental procedures. Since Invisalign aligners are much easier to clean than traditional braces, they also make it easier to take care of your teeth. Spending some money on your smile now may save you a lot of pain and money later on.
What areas of the mouth can Invisalign be adapted to cover?
Since Invisalign aligners are custom designed, they can be adapted to fit anywhere. Whether you have an underbite, an overbite, gaps, crowding, malocclusion or protruding teeth, most mild and severe misalignment issues can be corrected with Invisalign.
How do I find out if I’m a candidate for Invisalign aligners?
Find a dentist who offers Invisalign aligners, and request an appointment for a consultation. During your initial visit, a doctor will conduct a mouth exam to determine if Invisalign aligners can address your concerns. You may also be asked questions about your schedule and daily routine to see if you can make the commitment necessary to clean and maintain your aligners.
The first step to getting Invisalign aligners is finding an experienced dentist who cares about you as an individual. You will be seeing your Invisalign dentist regularly for up to a year, so establishing a relationship with someone you feel comfortable communicating with is key to seeing the results you want.