Candidates for Invisalign
1. Mild to Moderate Misalignments
Invisalign is designed to address mild to moderate dental misalignments effectively. These alignments typically include:
Crowded Teeth
Crowded teeth occur when there’s not enough space in the mouth for all the teeth to fit properly. This misalignment can cause teeth to overlap or twist. Invisalign is great for moving crowded teeth into their proper positions without the need for extraction or major surgery.
Gaps Between Teeth
When there is extra space between teeth, it can lead to discomfort, food traps, and an
increased risk of tooth decay. Invisalign can gently close these gaps by gradually moving the teeth into a more aligned position.
Overbite and Underbite
An overbite happens when the upper teeth extend too far over the lower teeth, and an underbite occurs when the lower teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth. Invisalign can correct these misalignments by repositioning the teeth gradually and with precision.
Crossbite
A crossbite occurs when some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth instead of outside. This can lead to uneven wear on teeth and affect your jaw alignment. Invisalign can help realign your teeth so that they sit properly together.
In cases of severe misalignment or complex bite problems, traditional metal braces or other orthodontic solutions may be necessary to achieve the desired results.
2. Commitment to Wearing Aligners
One of the key
factors for success with Invisalign is your commitment to wearing the aligners. To be effective, the aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. That means you will only remove them when eating, drinking (other than water), brushing, and flossing.
While Invisalign offers flexibility compared to traditional braces, it requires discipline. If you are someone who can stick to this regimen, Invisalign will likely work well for you.
The aligners need to be changed approximately every two weeks, and you’ll need to keep them in for the majority of the day to see steady progress. If you are someone who can remember to wear them consistently and follow the instructions, Invisalign can be highly effective.
3. Fully Erupted Permanent Teeth
Invisalign is most suitable for individuals whose permanent teeth have fully erupted. This typically applies to adults and older teens. If your child has not yet developed all of their adult teeth, Invisalign may not be an option until they have all of their permanent teeth in place.
While Invisalign can be effective for teens, younger children who still have baby teeth may not benefit from this treatment. It's essential that your dentist or orthodontist assesses whether your child’s teeth are ready for Invisalign.
4. Healthy Gums and Teeth
Before starting Invisalign treatment, it’s important that your gums and teeth are in good health. If you have cavities, gum disease, or other
dental problems, your dentist will recommend addressing these issues before starting the treatment.
Since Invisalign works by moving your teeth into new positions, it’s vital that your teeth are strong enough to handle the shifts. If you have any active dental issues, it’s important to get them treated first to ensure the best results from Invisalign.
5. Non-Smoker or Willing to Quit
Smoking can significantly affect the quality of your Invisalign treatment. Not only does smoking stain the clear aligners, but it also increases the risk of gum disease and other oral health problems, which could hinder the success of your treatment. Since Invisalign is designed to be discreet, smoking may undermine its cosmetic benefits by causing the aligners to become discolored.
While smoking doesn’t completely disqualify you from using Invisalign, it is recommended that you quit smoking before starting treatment or at least avoid smoking while wearing the aligners.
6. A Desire for a Discreet Treatment Option
Invisalign is perfect for individuals who want to straighten their teeth without the conspicuous appearance of metal braces. The aligners are virtually invisible, making them an excellent choice for adults, professionals, and teenagers who don’t want to draw attention to their orthodontic treatment.
In addition, Invisalign aligners are removable, so you can take them out for photos, meetings, or social gatherings. This level of flexibility and discretion makes Invisalign an appealing choice for many patients.
7. Ideal Age and Maturity
Although there is no upper age limit for Invisalign treatment, it’s essential to consider the patient’s maturity level. Teenagers and adults who are responsible enough to wear their aligners as prescribed will typically benefit most from Invisalign.
For younger children, traditional braces might be a better option. The removable nature of Invisalign requires responsibility to ensure that the aligners are worn for the recommended amount of time each day.
How Invisalign Works: An In-Depth Look
Invisalign works through
a series of custom-made clear aligners that are designed to gradually shift your teeth into their optimal position. Each set of aligners is slightly different from the previous one, with each new set moving the teeth closer to their final position.
The process begins with a consultation with an Invisalign-trained dentist or orthodontist. They will take digital impressions or physical molds of your teeth and map out a detailed treatment plan. This plan is used to create your aligners, which you will wear in a specific order over the course of your treatment.
Typically, patients wear a new set of aligners every two weeks, but your dentist may adjust this schedule depending on your progress. The treatment duration typically lasts between 6 and 18 months, depending on the complexity of your case.
Why Invisalign Might Not Be Right for You
Invisalign is a great solution for many people, but it isn’t the right choice for everyone. For individuals with severe misalignments, especially issues related to the bite or teeth that are significantly crooked, traditional braces may offer more predictable and faster results. Additionally, if you are unable to commit to wearing the aligners consistently, or if you have difficulty following the instructions, Invisalign might not be the best option.
Invisalign works best for patients with mild to moderate orthodontic issues. If your dentist or orthodontist determines that your condition requires more advanced treatment, they may suggest other orthodontic options.
Conclusion
Invisalign is an excellent solution for many individuals looking to straighten their teeth in a discreet and comfortable way. If you have mild to moderate misalignments, are committed to wearing your aligners for the prescribed amount of time, and have healthy teeth and gums, you could be a great candidate for Invisalign treatment.
At
Green Pond Dental, we specialize in providing personalized Invisalign treatments that fit your unique dental needs. Our team of experts will work with you every step of the way to ensure that you get the best results possible. Ready to start your Invisalign journey?
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out how Invisalign can transform your smile.
FAQs
