Clear aligner orthodontic treatment has grown in popularity over the past couple of decades and is a great option for patients of any age who do not want to have traditional braces. One of the original clear aligner therapy companies is Invisalign, which is also probably the most widely known. Invisalign was introduced to the market in 1998 and since then, more brands have come on the scene such as ClearCorrect, Spark, and uLab. In this section, we are going to focus on Invisalign.
Invisalign uses a series of clear, BPA free plastic trays that gradually shift and rotate the teeth into an ideal position. Clear aligners are much more comfortable and less noticeable than metal wires and brackets.
What types of dental issues can be corrected with Invisalign?
Invisalign can be used to fix a number of dental problems, including crowding and spacing issues as well as some moderate bite problems including:
* crowded teeth
* gapped teeth
* bite issues (overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite)
In order for Invisalign to work effectively, it is important to wear the aligners at least 22 hours per day. The only time your aligners should be removed is for eating and oral hygiene, and cleaning your trays.
What are the pros and cons of Invisalign treatment?
Your dentist will review the pros and cons of Invisalign treatment before you decide if it is right for you. Below, we have listed a few topics your dentist might hit on when discussing your options.
Pros of Invisalign
* Aesthetics: This is one of the biggest reasons patients choose Invisalign over traditional braces. It is especially beneficial for adults who do not want a mouthful of metal to have virtually undetectable orthodontic treatment.
* Removability and oral hygiene: Having the ability to remove your trays to properly brush and floss your teeth is a huge benefit for clearline or therapy. It can be very difficult for patients with metal wires and brackets to adequately perform their oral care routine. This will also help avoid any trapped food particles that can cause staining or tooth decay. brackets.
* Fewer visits to the dentist: You will still need to visit your dentist occasionally to make sure that your treatment is on track and that everything is moving as it should but unlike traditional braces, there is no potential for a broken bracket or popped wire to cause unplanned visits or damage.
Cons of Invisalign
* Compliance: In order for Invisalign to be effective, it is crucial for the patient to comply with the directions of wearing the retainers at least 22 hours per day. If you believe you might not wear them as directed, your treatment will take longer or may not be successful at all.
* Eating: You cannot eat with your aligners in, they have to be removed. Additionally, some of your favorite foods may have to be avoided, especially when a new tray is inserted. The same problem exists with braces, every time your braces are tightened, your teeth are a little sore for a few days.
* Complex cases: If you have extreme crowding or bite issues, Invisalign may not be the best option for you. Patients with bridgework may also be disqualified as a candidate for Invisalign since the trays will not be able to shift the missing tooth that the bridge replaced.