A confident smile can change everything, from your self-esteem to your interactions with others. If you’re thinking about straightening your teeth, you’ve likely heard of Invisalign, the clear aligner system that has become a popular alternative to traditional metal braces. But Invisalign isn’t for everyone. Your eligibility for treatment depends on several factors, including your dental needs, lifestyle, and expectations. Understanding how Invisalign works and what it offers can help you make an informed decision.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually move your teeth into their desired position. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are made of smooth, BPA-free plastic and are custom-designed to fit snugly over your teeth. Because the aligners are nearly invisible, many adults and teens choose Invisalign for a more discreet treatment option. They’re also removable, which means you can take them out for eating, brushing, and flossing, something that’s not possible with metal braces.
Who Can Benefit from Invisalign?
Invisalign is a great option for people with mild to moderate orthodontic concerns. It could effectively treat issues like crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. For more complex cases, traditional braces may still be necessary, but advances in Invisalign technology have made it suitable for a wider range of patients than ever before. Teens and adults alike could benefit from Invisalign, especially those who are self-conscious about the appearance of braces. It’s also a popular choice for professionals or public-facing individuals who prefer a subtle solution to orthodontic correction.
Lifestyle and Commitment
While the aligners are removable, Invisalign still requires a strong commitment. For the treatment to be effective, the aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. This means you need to be disciplined about putting them back in after meals and cleaning. The convenience of removing the aligners to eat whatever you like is a major benefit, but it also means you’re responsible for keeping track of them and ensuring they’re not lost or damaged. If you’re someone who tends to forget or misplace things, this aspect might be challenging.
Oral Hygiene Considerations
One of the standout benefits of Invisalign is that it allows for easier oral hygiene. Since the aligners are removable, you can brush and floss normally without navigating around brackets and wires. This reduces the risk of plaque buildup, gum disease, and other oral health problems that can sometimes accompany braces. However, you’ll also need to clean the aligners themselves and rinse them regularly to avoid discoloration and odor. Neglecting this part of the routine can lead to hygiene issues that defeat the purpose of wearing clear aligners in the first place.
Expectations and Results
Invisalign typically produces results in 6 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of your case. You’ll switch to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, and have periodic check-ins with your orthodontist or dentist to track your progress. Consistency is key. If you don’t wear your aligners as prescribed, your treatment could take longer or fail to produce the desired results. When worn properly, Invisalign can deliver outcomes that are just as impressive as traditional braces.
Invisalign Treatment in Long Beach, CA
At Garlington Orthodontics, we understand the need for discreet treatment. With clear aligner treatment, you could see an improvement in your smile without the embarrassment or hassle of traditional braces. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and see if Invisalign is right for you.