Truths and Myths About Invisalign® Aligners

If you are considering getting Invisalign® aligners to straighten out your teeth, you have probably heard both positive and negative things about them. However, Invisalign can be an effective treatment for a variety of orthodontic conditions. It can also be shorter than other treatments. Read on to learn what is true and what is not.

Myth: Invisalign® aligners are more uncomfortable

This is a myth because Invisalign can be just as comfortable, if not more comfortable, as braces. While no orthodontic treatment is fun, Invisalign aligners can be easier than other orthodontic devices. For example, patients can take out the aligners while eating, allowing the patient to eat sticky and hard foods that would normally be off-limits with braces.

Because the Invisalign process uses few or no brackets, patients also will not have to worry about sores developing on the cheeks or lips. The lack of wires makes it easier for patients to keep their teeth clean.

Myth: Invisalign® is not effective for severe problems

Many people mistakenly believe that Invisalign is only for those who have minor orthodontic problems. However, this is not true. Because the Invisalign set is customized to each patient’s needs, the set can treat a variety of orthodontic problems, including:

• Crossbites
• Overbites
• Gaps
• Crowding
• Underbites
• Open bites

Invisalign can help patients with these problems or other ones.

Truth: Invisalign® takes less time than other treatments

Generally, the Invisalign aligners are more effective than traditional braces. The average time needed for Invisalign aligners to work is about 12 to 18 months. In contrast, traditional metal braces generally take about two years.

This is assuming that a patient will wear each aligner for 22 hours a day. If patients do not wear aligners at least 22 hours a day, the treatment may take longer. However, this is true for metal braces as well – failing to follow the orthodontist’s instructions with metal braces can also extend the required treatment time.

Truth: proper cleaning is important

Patients with Invisalign should continue to brush and floss the teeth as normal. However, patients should also brush the teeth after eating or drinking beverages that can cause stains, such as coffee and red wine. If the teeth are not brushed after these beverages, both the teeth and the aligners can become stained.

Because the aligners can trap food particles on the teeth, it is a good idea to brush after eating as well. If this is not possible, patients should try to at least rinse out the mouth and the aligners after eating. Regular dental visits will continue to be important so individuals can work to maintain their smile.

Visit a dentist today

If you want to fix overcrowding, an open bite or any other orthodontic problems, the first step is to visit a dentist. Invisalign can be an effective solution if you want to be able to clean your teeth as normal. Invisalign can also be more aesthetic than other treatments. Visiting a dentist will help you get started.

Request an appointment here: https://www.lilburnfamilydentistry.com or call Lilburn Family Dentistry at (770) 800-0178 for an appointment in our Lilburn office.

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