Invisalign is a highly sought-after orthodontic treatment that allows you to gain a beautiful, straight smile with the help of clear, removable aligners.
Are you a candidate for Invisalign?
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign uses clear aligners to correct orthodontic issues while straightening your teeth.
Using 3D imaging, your orthodontist will be able to visually create each step that will take place to transform your smile from what it is today to the perfect smile it will become after treatment. This will be done as you work your way through the series of customized aligners. The more complex your need, the more aligners you may have, and the longer the overall treatment.
Each aligner is worn for about two weeks, or at an interval best determined by your orthodontist. As you place the new aligner in your mouth, it will feel a bit snug at first. This is normal as it is meant to encourage the teeth to move.
Follow-up visits with the orthodontist throughout treatment will ensure treatment is moving in the right direction.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for Invisalign?
An ideal candidate for Invisalign is someone who has healthy teeth and gums. This does not mean you will be excluded from treatment if you currently have dental concerns that need to be addressed. Rather, it simply means that once you take care of them, then you may be eligible for Invisalign.
Ideal candidates will be in need of mild to moderate orthodontic treatment. For instance, some of the most common issues that are treated with Invisalign include:
- Overcrowding
- Gaps between teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Overbites
- Crossbites
- Underbites
- Misaligned bites
For individuals who have more complex orthodontic needs, Invisalign may not be the best option. A thorough evaluation with your orthodontist will be a great way to find out if this treatment will be effective.
Because the soft plastic aligners impact the placement of the teeth, but do not influence the jaw development in any way, teenagers are considered ideal candidates as long as they meet the other criteria.
As for adults, anyone who has good oral health and is in need of mild to moderate orthodontic care will usually be a good candidate and find success with treatment.
Wearing Aligners
Most patients wear Invisalign aligners for about 12 to 18 months —- some shorter or longer depending on their orthodontic issues. The key, however, is to actually wear the aligners.
Being able to remove them whenever you want makes it easy to forget to put them back in. In order to stay on schedule with treatment, the aligners must be worn at least for about 20 to 22 hours a day. Not doing so will result in delayed or failed treatment.
So, to be an ideal candidate for Invisalign, you have to be willing to commit to wearing the aligners as instructed by your orthodontist.
Learn More About Invisalign
To learn more about Invisalign and see whether or not it is the best option for your child’s dental needs, contact the team at Suffolk Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. We have watched many smiles be transformed using these invisible aligners — and we’d love to help you, too.
Contact us today to book an appointment at one of our convenient locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will aligners affect my hygiene habits?
Aligners will not affect your hygiene habits. They can be easily removed, allowing you to brush and floss as normal.
Can I take a selfie with Invisalign?
Yes, you can take a selfie with Invisalign. Because they are made of clear plastic, they do not show up in pictures — unlike traditional metal braces.
