Top 10 Invisalign Facts You Need to Know

Are you thinking about Invisalign as the discreet solution to your orthodontic needs?

This technique has altered not only the way dental alignment is corrected, but also how orthodontics is practiced by patients and dental professionals. But despite it gaining popularity as a clear aligner method, it's important to understand its ins and outs before getting started.

Let's go over 10 things you should know about Invisalign.

Invisalign Facts You Should Know

1. Invisalign Isn't Just for Teenagers

   Invisalign is often perceived as most useful for younger people who don’t want to deal with the appearance and discomfort of metal brackets. However, it’s as effective for adults. Its clear, removable, and comfortable form makes it ideal for anyone seeking a straighter smile without the inconvenience associated with traditional braces.

2. The Invisalign Process is Highly Personalized

   Invisalign's effectiveness comes from its unique methodology. Your Invisalign treatment begins with a consultation, during which a 3D picture of your teeth is developed. This enables a precise, personalized treatment plan that predicts the movement of your teeth and provides a clear timeline for your orthodontic journey.

3. Aligners Exert Gentler Force to Move Teeth

   Traditional braces apply more force to the teeth and are regularly adjusted by a dental professional. On the other hand, Invisalign aligners apply gentle force to the teeth to gradually move them to their ideal position over time. This gentle, continuous pressure makes the experience more comfortable.

4. Invisalign Straightens Teeth in a Subtle Way

   The clear plastic aligners are meant to be discreet, making them ideal for individuals who want to straighten their teeth without drawing attention to themselves. That said, this method offers a more subtle way to attain a beautiful smile than metal braces.

5. Invisalign Is Removable, But There Are Limitations

   Invisalign aligners can be removed so you can eat, clean your teeth, and celebrate special occasions without interruptions. But for best results, they must be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day or as your dentist prescribes. Commitment and discipline are crucial to see your desired outcome.

Invisalign Offers Health Benefits Beyond Cosmetics

Invisalign offers a lot more than cosmetic enhancement. It allows you to bite more evenly, which can help ease jaw pain or misalignment difficulties. In addition, as the tooth alignment improves, the risks of gum disease and tooth loss also decrease.

7. The Invisalign Treatment Duration Varies

   The Invisalign treatment duration varies according to the severity of the misalignment and the individual’s commitment level. No journey is the same. Mild cases may only take a few months to treat, whereas more severe cases may require more than a year. Your dentist will give you a realistic timeline so you can set your expectations and make decisions accordingly.

8. Pre-Treatment Check-Ups Are Essential

   You must first undergo a full dental checkup to see if you're a good candidate for Invisalign treatment. Your dentist will check for problems such as decay or gum disease that may need to be addressed as they can jeopardize the success of your treatment. This makes Invisalign all the more effective as the procedure is guided by dental professionals.

9. Patients May Experience Speech Changes

   When patients start using Invisalign, it's common to observe a little change in their speech patterns. Most people only notice this in the early stages of each new set of aligners, and it’s usually only temporary as your mouth is still adjusting to the aligners.

10. Post-Treatment Retainers Are Non-Negotiable

    After completing your Invisalign treatment, you’ll need retainers to keep your teeth in their newly aligned position, just like with traditional braces. Your dentist will advise you on how often to wear your retainer to keep your smile straight and beautiful.

The Silent and Pleasant Way to Straighter Teeth

Invisalign's quiet, pleasant, and effective approach to teeth straightening makes it an appealing choice for many people wanting to improve their smiles.

Whether you're a busy professional, an adult seeking a more comfortable alternative to traditional braces, or a teen looking for a solution that won’t interfere with your lifestyle, Invisalign could be an ideal solution.

Consult a certified Invisalign practitioner to see if this is the best choice for your orthodontic goals. Chinook Village Dental in South Calgary Alberta is glad to assist you in getting started.