According to the American Association of Orthodontics, an estimated 4.5 million Americans wear braces. While many assume that braces are only for children and teenagers, one in five orthodontic patients are over the age of 18. In fact, many adult orthodontic patients are able to achieve their desired results without ever wearing metal braces. How? Invisalign is an invisible alternative that requires fewer lifestyle changes. In this post, you’ll learn how Invisalign can brighten your smile today!
What exactly is Invisalign?
Just like traditional braces, Invisalign is designed to straighten your teeth, which improves your smile and oral health. However, it does away with the traditional metal brackets and rubber bands. Invisalign treatment consists of clear plastic trays — custom made for your mouth — worn over the teeth. These trays gradually move your teeth, applying pressure to guide them towards their ideal position.
For the best results, Invisalign is worn for 20 to 22 hours per day. The price of both treatments varies, but in mild-to-moderate cases, Invisalign can cost the same as traditional braces.
What are the benefits of Invisalign?
The best orthodontic treatment option is decided on a case-by-case basis, but there are some universal advantages of Invisalign:
Less noticeable
Braces are often associated with adolescence, and not in a flattering way. Invisalign offers an invisible alternative that many adults may prefer. The clear aligners can boost your self-confidence as treatment progresses, allowing you to obtain your dream smile without compromising your appearance for years.
Flexibility
Traditional braces must be worn 24/7, but Invisalign can be removed whenever necessary. This allows you to brush and floss your teeth without obstruction, keeping them healthier during your orthodontic treatment. Because they are removable, the alignment trays themselves are easily cleaned. You can also take the aligners out during meals, which means you don’t have to change how or what you eat. It should be noted that you need to be disciplined enough to put your aligners back in to achieve actual progress.
Comfort
Straightening your teeth with any method will result in some discomfort as your mouth adjusts. However, because Invisalign is made of smooth plastic, it is more comfortable for your mouth. You won’t have to deal with the cuts or sores that come with traditional braces. Invisalign also lets you skip the discomfort of brace tightening — your dentist will simply give you new alignment trays as treatment progresses.
Is Invisalign more effective than braces?
Neither option is strictly better than the other, but there is generally a difference in treatment time.
In most cases, Invisalign will yield the desired result in a shorter period of time than traditional braces. Invisalign treatment time generally ranges from 6 to 18 months, while braces are usually worn for two years. However, with more complex orthodontic cases — such as those involving back teeth, bridgework or tooth rotation — traditional braces may be the only option.
Orthodontic treatment may seem like a hassle, but braces aren’t your only option. Invisalign can help fix your teeth without requiring you to make drastic lifestyle or appearance changes. Talk to your Willow Grove dentist today about comfortably achieving your dream smile.
About the Author
At Advanced Smile Design, Dr. Isdaner provides personalized care that emphasizes a stress-free experience. He has over 45 years of experience in dental care and is a member of the American Dental Association and the Pennsylvania Dental Association. Dr. Isdaner is a certified Invisalign provider and loves the ease it grants patients. If you have further questions about orthodontic treatment, he can be reached through his website or at 215-659-3334.
