When should I think about starting clear aligners?
There are several advantages to choosing clear aligners over traditional braces: these include fewer dental visits, easy cleaning, and greater convenience.
Invisalign* treatment involves wearing a series of clear, removable aligners or mouth guards that gradually straighten your teeth. There are no brackets or wires, which avoids the restrictions that come with metal braces. As the name suggests, they are virtually invisible.
Some of the world’s biggest music and movie stars haven’t always had bright Hollywood smiles. Pop star Katy Perry famously sang about her ‘Teenage Dream’, but there was no mention in the hit song of her self-esteem suffering because of her wonky bottom teeth. Katy eventually enhanced her gorgeous grin with aligners at around age 32. There’s no limit to the age you can straighten your teeth and achieve the smile you dreamt of.
What is the first step to straighten teeth?
An initial consultation with an Invisalign specialist or an orthodontist is crucial to determine the best time to start a journey towards a brilliant smile and total self-confidence.
The teenage years are the most common time for Invisalign or clear aligners treatment, but the beauty of its simplicity is that it can be initiated later in life with the same success. The best time for treatment is when the time is right for you! Aligning teeth can be the first step in oral restoration if you are looking into treatments like veneers or crowns for broken teeth to address the underlying cause.
Some discipline is required for the treatment to be effective. It’s a big commitment because the aligner must be worn for at least 20-22 hours a day and only removed for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing.
Are clear aligners a suitable replacement for braces?
Braces have gained a poor reputation over time, often connected to experiences of food getting stuck and other awkward moments. The anti-braces movement stems from concerns about hygiene, appearance, and discomfort.
Metal braces effectively straighten teeth and are recommended when clear aligners aren’t suitable. The popularity of clear aligners has grown significantly in the past decade and is a fantastic choice for adults who are looking for a more discreet way to straighten their teeth.
If you are interested in the differences between clear aligners and braces and want to compare your choices, you can either ask your dentist at your next appointment or read up on the differences in this article.
What are the pros and cons of Invisalign
Pros
Floss like a boss – You can remove your aligners to brush and floss like normal.
Comfort for the soul – Unlike braces, there are no inside-cheek cuts and grazes and no salt washes. If there are any sharp edges on your retainer, you can smooth them back with fine sandpaper or an emery board for ongoing comfort. Your dentist will show you how during your treatment plan.
Nice to eat you – Aligners need to be worn 20-22 hours a day, but the best thing is you can take them out to enjoy your food.
Family photos – Smiles go viral as Invisalign is literally invisible, which is great for those Insta posts and important occasion photos with family and friends.
Cons
Total cost – The big question. Is Invisalign cheaper than braces? The technology and materials needed to produce the retainer can sometimes add up to a similar cost to braces. Your dentist will help you decide the best course for you or your child.
Follow the rules – Discipline is needed to wear the aligner for the required hours each day and to remember to put them back in after cleaning and eating. The number one reason for treatment delay usually relates to not sticking to the basic instructions.
Treatment detour – Even after completing Invisalign treatment, there can be a need for braces in the final stages of tooth positioning. It’s not the norm, but it does and can happen.
A fantastic smile for life
There is a lot to consider when it comes to the alignment of your teeth at any age. No matter if the treatment is for yourself, a teenager or another family member, being armed with the positives and negatives of each option will help you make an informed decision when your dentist gives their recommendations.
If you’re interested in brightening your smile, make an appointment with a nib dental Invisalign or clear aligners specialist today.
* Invisalign® is a registered trademark owned by Align Technology, Inc.
Resources:
https://www.invisalign.com.au/how-it-works
https://www.theorthodontists.com.au/blog/invisalign-vs-braces-the-pros-and-cons-of-each
