Want the Perfect Smile? Invisalign May be the Answer
The Benefits of Invisalign and Why It May be the Right Choice for You
Maybe you’ve been unhappy with your smile for years and are just now considering a way to straighten those pearly whites. Or, perhaps your child’s dentist recommended orthodontic procedures that will improve common alignment issues, like overbites, crowded teeth, or gaps between teeth. Regardless of what circumstance has landed you on this page, you’re likely grappling with one question: braces or Invisalign.
For years, traditional metal braces were the answer to many tooth alignments issues, and they remain a valid and effective option. But over the last two decades, research and technology both within and outside the field of dentistry have given patients like yourself a new option: Invisalign.
What is Invisalign?
Simply put, Invisalign is a transparent aligner that slips directly over your teeth. With consistent use, the aligner gently shifts teeth into their proper place. The result is a happy and healthier smile without many of the drawbacks associated with traditional metal braces.
Over time, more and more people are choosing Invisalign over traditional braces. In the last 20 years, Invisalign has helped over 7 million people, including 1.4 million teens, perfect their smiles. But is Invisalign the right choice for you or your child?
What are the benefits of Invisalign?
Many patients are drawn to Invisalign because it offers a subtle approach to straighter teeth. Without obvious brackets, wires, or bands, it’s easy to hide Invisalign aligners. That makes Invisalign a popular choice for adult patients who want to improve their smile without drawing attention to their efforts. The same is true, however, for younger patients, particularly teens, who don’t want to spend their high school years with a mouth full of braces.
Even though many people consider Invisalign for its appearance – or lack thereof – that’s not the only benefit this modern approach to orthodontics has to offer. Here are a few additional things to keep in mind if you’re considering Invisalign.
Comfort
One of the leading complaints about braces is pain and discomfort. Brackets, which are affixed to the teeth, can rub up against the soft inner lip and cheek tissue, causing sores and pain. And, because braces are typically adjusted every six weeks, the adjustments often require more force, increasing the amount of pressure and pain felt by a patient.
Invisalign, on the other hand, is composed of patented SmartTrack® material and allows for a smooth exterior and a snug, comfortable fit. And even though Invisalign aligners do rely on a gentle, constant force to position teeth, adjustments are made on a weekly or biweekly basis. That schedule allows for more gradual movement, and patients will feel less discomfort throughout their treatment.
Flexibility
Many patients are also quick to point out the limitations of braces, specifically when it comes to eating. Chewy bagels, crunchy apples and carrots, popcorn, hard pretzels and nuts, and of course candy, are all on the list of “foods to avoid with braces.”
Because Invisalign is removable, patients have more freedom to eat the foods they enjoy without worrying about the negative effects (e.g., broken brackets, lodged food particles, etc.) often associated with braces.
Invisalign’s flexibility isn’t limited to eating, however. We recommend that patients wear their aligners 20 – 22 hours a day, but that doesn’t mean they can’t remove them when necessary. For some patients, that may mean removing their aligner(s) for meals. Others may choose to momentarily remove their aligners for other reasons, like senior photos, work presentations, or other social engagements.
Improved dental health during and after treatment
In addition to flexibility and comfort, Invisalign also offers patients a better oral health experience. There’s no need to worry about permanent enamel damage when braces are removed. And, since the aligner can be removed, patients can easily maintain healthy cleaning habits, like flossing and brushing. For that reason, Invisalign often makes it easier for patients to prevent common dental issues, like cavities and gum disease.
The benefits of Invisalign don’t end once you’re finished with treatment. Straighter teeth are easier to clean and care for, which means healthier enamel and gums. Improved alignment can also reduce unnecessary wear and tear, improving speech, and lead to overall improved health.
Faster & more personalized experience
Everyone’s mouth is different, and though braces do offer a largely personalized experience, Invisalign takes it one step further. Built on years of research and technology, Invisalign offers a truly unique experience throughout the entire process.
Instead of traditional molds, Invisalign relies on a smile scan that can quickly and accurately create a 3D image of your teeth. From there, your customized aligners are created using state-of-the-art 3D printing technology.
Once you receive your first aligner, we can work together to fine-tune the path forward using Invisalign ClinCheck® imagine software. This allows for more control and predictability throughout the process, meaning you get a truly personalized experience that ends with the smile you or your child always wanted.
How much does Invisalign cost?
Most patients see cost as a primary factor in their orthodontic decisions. Because Invisalign offers a more modern approach to orthodontics, it’s easy to assume that it’s a more expensive option. However, patients who select Invisalign often find that the total cost is similar to that of braces.
Every individual is different, and so there is no one-size-fits-all estimate. The total cost of treatment will depend on a variety of factors including your unique orthodontic needs, your age, and your health insurance.
At Nataupsky Family Dentistry, we strive to provide every patient with the best dental care available, but we also recognize that your budget can and often does play a big role in the treatment plan you choose. For that reason, we’re happy to offer financing options for patients considering Invisalign.
We pride ourselves on offering comprehensive treatments that consider all aspects of treatment and the unique needs of each patient. If you’re considering Invisalign, we would love to meet with you to discuss your options and establish an effective, positive, and affordable path forward. Just give us a call today as (570) 331-8100 or contact us online to set up an appointment and take the first step towards that perfect smile.