Is Invisalign Right for Me?
Understanding the Capabilities of Clear Aligners
At Warnick and Semder Dentistry, we want our patients to feel confident and comfortable in their decision to pursue orthodontic treatment at one of our convenient dental offices. Knowing whether Invisalign is the right solution to treat your crooked or gapped teeth or a misaligned bite cannot be determined until you come in for a scheduled consultation. Once we have the chance to review your smile, we can offer recommendations designed to enhance your aesthetics and improve your oral health. If Invisalign clear aligners prove to be one of the eligible options, we will discuss the process further and provide a personalized treatment plan that outlines your timeline and cost. Our team understands every patient is different, which is why we do not offer “one size fits all” treatments. If you want to find out if you are eligible for Invisalign, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
What Can Invisalign Do?
Invisalign is an extremely versatile method of orthodontic treatment that is capable of addressing various types of dental problems. To be an eligible Invisalign candidate, it is important that you have teeth that are fully developed, so adults and teenagers who prefer a more discreet and faster form of orthodontics will benefit from this type of treatment.
When examining your smile during your initial consultation, our team of experts will be checking to see if you possess any of the following issues. If so, you will likely be eligible for Invisalign:
- Crowded teeth
- Crooked or overlapping teeth
- Spaces between teeth
- Mild overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite
What Can Invisalign Not Do?
While it may seem as if Invisalign can fix all orthodontic problems, this is simply not the case. There are instances where traditional metal braces will prove more beneficial. If your case involves a more complex and intensive repositioning and adjustment of your facial structure (i.e., your jaw), there is a good chance you will need regular braces and possibly headgear to ensure proper realignment.
When discussing with our team, it may be possible to move forward with Invisalign after the complex adjustments are complete. Essentially, once your bite is in proper alignment, Invisalign aligners may be used to shift your teeth into the correct position.
Will Age Affect My Invisalign Treatment?
The reason teens and adults are the best patients for Invisalign is that it does produce better results when teeth are fully developed. Also, clear aligner systems require a level of responsibility and accountability, which can be difficult for younger children. You must remember to take out your trays before eating, drinking, and cleaning them as well as reinsert them as soon as possible. Children may find it difficult trying to remember these steps and accidentally lose or damage their aligners. It is also necessary for patients to wear trays for 20-22 hours each day, which can be a struggle for little ones. Traditional braces will always be a better choice for younger patients, but if you are a teenager or adult who prefers treatment without the bulky metal, Invisalign might just be the right solution for you.