Because your smile is a representation of your personality, age, and character traits, you want to feel good about what it portrays. Misalignment issues put a damper on the smile and can also diminish your self-confidence. Invisalign may be the ideal solution. You may have heard of Invisalign and know that it is a different kind of orthodontic treatment. But your lingering questions might also keep you from moving forward with a consultation. We’ll answer a few common questions here.
What Makes Invisalign Effective?
Invisalign isn’t braces but it works similarly. Traditional braces work by placing consistent pressure on teeth to move in a certain direction. Invisalign aligners do the same. Aligners are BPA, BPS, latex, and gluten-free. They are made using sophisticated digital software that plans every movement that gets you from point A to point B, a beautiful smile. In two-week increments, your teeth shift as dictated by your treatment plan.
Does Invisalign Work for All Patients?
Many teens and adults are great candidates for Invisalign. Still, there are a few exceptions that should be noted. Invisalign may not be ideal for:
- Correcting severe misalignment of malocclusion
- People who smoke
- Younger patients whose jaw is still maturing
- Patients who cannot dedicate several months to wearing aligners as directed
What Has to Change While I Go Through Invisalign Treatment?
One of the most advantageous aspects of Invisalign is that there is very little lifestyle modification necessary. You insert your aligners, remove them for brushing, flossing, and meals, and insert them again. It’s pretty simple. Because your teeth will be moving, which involves them being slightly loose in the periodontal ligament, you will have to avoid a few foods, such as taffy and hard candies. Other minor changes that are necessary during Invisalign treatment include:
- Avoiding smoking
- Always removing aligners to eat or drink (other than water)
- Do not chew gum when wearing aligners
- Rinsing trays before inserting
- Rinsing the mouth with water before inserting trays
- Wearing trays nearly 24/7
Are Invisalign Trays Really Invisible?
Invisalign aligners are made with ultra-thin, ultra-clear thermoplastic. This preserves the natural appearance of the smile in photos and from across the room. Aligners may be visible to others who are standing very close to you when you talk, laugh, and smile. They are incredibly discreet but not completely invisible.
The best way to determine if Invisalign is right for you is to consult with an experienced dental provider. To schedule a visit to our NYC office, call (212) 974-8737.