The Invisalign method of teeth straightening is the preferred method of treatment for many adults with crooked teeth and others who hope to avoid traditional metal braces.
Using a series of clear — almost invisible — custom-fitted straightening trays, Invisalign offers a path to straighter teeth that is much more subtle in appearance and way more comfortable to wear. Plus, they make oral hygiene a snap!
However, there are several questions about Invisalign treatment it might be helpful to ask yourself and your dental professional before pursuing this treatment option.
Am I a Candidate?
Most people with straightforward orthodontic cases, such as overbites, underbites, gaps and overcrowding are candidates for this type of treatment. Your dental professional can determine this for sure.
How Much Does Invisalign cost?
Just like with traditional braces, the cost of tooth straightening with Invisalign can vary greatly depending on the severity, amount and type of correction needed. However, the cost of Invisalign is comparable to that of metal brackets (between $2,500 and $5,000) and is often covered by dental insurance. Pay rates are dependent on your plan.
Does Invisalign Hurt?
While there is generally some soreness directly after graduating to a new tray that coaxes teeth closer to their correct positions, most people find Invisalign much more comfortable than metal braces. There are no pokey brackets that break or wires that cause sores or ulcers on the inner cheeks, lips or tongue.
Am I Responsible Enough?
Unlike with traditional braces, Invisalign requires a certain level of commitment on the part of the patient in order to be successful. Since the trays are removable for eating and cleaning, the onus is on the patient to put them back in and keep them in the required number of hours per day, as well as keep up with them when eating in places other than home. In addition, the patient must keep track of when to graduate to the next tray in the series.
Is my Lifestyle Invisalign Friendly?
Invisalign treatment trays must be worn the majority of the day and only removed when eating or cleaning the teeth and/or trays. This means smoking and chewing gum are no longer options. Tobacco products can stain the clear trays making them look dingy against your teeth, and chewing gum — even the so-called non-sticky brands — can damage the trays and leave a residue that attracts bacteria. If you remove the trays numerous times a day outside of meal times to smoke or chew gum, you interrupt the correction process and increase the likelihood of losing your trays.
If you are interested in straighter teeth and want to see if you are a candidate for Invisalign, contact Oak Hill Dental today. We are happy to answer these common questions about Invisalign, as well as any others you may have.