Advantages and Disadvantages of Invisalign

If you’re looking for a solution to crooked and misaligned teeth, Invisalign may be the right solution for you. Invisalign is a system of see-through aligners that are fitted to your teeth to align them.

Invisalign, also known as clear aligners, exerts pressure on the teeth, moving them slowly in the right direction and straightening them. Unlike regular braces, Invisalign helps you achieve a perfect smile without the use of brackets and wires. It’s no wonder it’s a popular orthodontic treatment option for teenagers and adults.

Invisalign treatment has a lot to offer, but like with any other procedure, it has both pros and cons. This blog will discuss both the benefits and drawbacks of getting Invisalign treatment so that you can make an informed choice.

Advantages of Invisalign

1.Virtually invisible

One benefit of getting Invisalign is that the aligners are invisible. They are fitted to your teeth perfectly, so people are unlikely to notice them. This allows you to go on with your personal or professional activities normally while still straightening your teeth. You can talk, eat, and laugh without visible braces covering up your smile.

2.No diet restrictions

Unlike with traditional braces, you’re not limited to what you can eat and drink. With Invisalign, you can eat or drink what you want. However, you will have to remove them before eating and brush your teeth right after eating to prevent cavities and stains on the aligners.

3.Convenient

You can remove the aligners if you need to. However, for them to work effectively, you should only remove them when it’s necessary. For instance, when eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth. Each set of aligners should be worn for at least 20 to 22 hours a day for effectiveness.

4.Faster treatment time

Some straightening methods, such as metal braces, take up to five years to straighten your teeth. Fortunately, with Invisalign, it only takes about one and a half years to align your teeth.

5.Enhanced self-esteem and confidence

Since Invisalign treatment is discreet, patients will gain self-esteem and confidence as their teeth are gradually straightened.

6.Fewer required visits to your dentist

For those with a busy schedule, Invisalign is a great choice. Unlike other dental procedures, you won’t have to make frequent visits to your dentists. Invisalign treatments and appointments are scheduled every six weeks.

7.Fixes several dental issues

Invisalign can be used to treat patients who have crowded teeth, crooked teeth, misaligned teeth, or gaps in their smile. It can also be used to treat bite issues such as an overbite, underbite, open bite, or crossbite.

To start your Invisalign journey, contact Westwood Dental Group, formerly the Office of Donald J. McLellan, DDS, today to schedule a consultation.

Cons of Invisalign

1. Requires consistency

For maximum effectiveness, you have to wear the Invisalign braces for 20 to 22 hours. This only leaves about two to four hours a day for eating and other activities. Patients must be able to wear their aligners consistently for the treatment to work.

2.Food limitations

While your dentist won’t give you a list of foods to avoid, like with traditional braces, you may experience some soreness when you first change to a new set of aligners. This may briefly limit your food choices, especially hard foods.

3.Removal when eating or drinking

Removing the aligners may be inconvenient and embarrassing, especially when eating or drinking in public. If you eat or drink without removing them, drinks and food particles can get into them, encouraging bacteria growth, which may lead to cavities.

How to Care for Your Invisalign

Caring and maintaining Invisalign is easy and straightforward. Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions. They include:

• Don’t eat or drink with your aligners on.
• Brush your teeth after eating and drinking.
• Clean your aligners as instructed by the dentist and avoid using hot water, as it can distort the plastic. This can deform the fit and affect the effectiveness of the aligners.

Schedule a Consultation

Invisalign is indeed an excellent solution to straightening your teeth while still maintaining your smile and confidence. Reach out to Westwood Dental Group, formerly the Office of Donald J. McLellan, DDS, today to schedule a consultation for Invisalign treatment.