Modern orthodontics provides numerous solutions for achieving the perfect smile and straight teeth. Traditional braces are typically the most trustworthy and widely used method by Chapel Hill Dentist. People are wary of Invisalign because they are unsure how it works, who provides it, and if it works as well as traditional braces.
Like any other decision in life, there are advantages and disadvantages to using Invisalign over conventional orthodontic procedures. We want you to be well-informed before deciding on the path to a straight and beautiful smile. Here are some of the major advantages and disadvantages of using Invisalign!
3 Benefits of Invisalign
Comfort
Invisalign is made up of two plastic trays that cover your upper and lower teeth. There are no brackets, cables, rubber bands, or other potentially damaging items in your mouth. You may also effortlessly remove the trays during the day to eat and brush your teeth correctly. This means you won’t have to worry about tooth discoloration caused by brackets. They are also distinct! It’s never been easier to smile at people while straightening your teeth, but you must keep the aligners in your mouth for them to work.
Hygiene
As previously said, you can remove the aligners to clean and floss your teeth as usual. This reduces the likelihood of plaque development, cavities, yellow spots, and gum disease, all of which can lead to a variety of serious problems. People who wear Invisalign are more likely to continue brushing and flossing on a regular basis. You can also quickly clean your trays if they become soiled over time!
From minor straightening to major repairs
Of course, Invisalign aligners can straighten your teeth, but can they also correct other orthodontic issues? Yes, the answer is yes. Most aligners can correct overbites, underbites, crossbites, gapped teeth, open bites, and crowded teeth, and there are even treatment regimens for a combination of baby and permanent teeth. We can provide you with a more detailed treatment plan on an individual basis to determine if Invisalign is correct for you!
3 Disadvantages of Invisalign
Cost
Invisalign is one of the more expensive teeth-straightening treatments. The national average for Invisalign ranges between $3,000 and $5,000. There are ways to reduce the cost, such as checking to see if your insurance covers any of your treatment, paying with pre-tax cash from your HSA or FSA account, and asking your doctor if payment plans are available.
Error in Removability
Although removability was already mentioned as a benefit, it can also cause a few issues. When you remove the aligners, you can eat whatever you want when you want, but you must keep the trays in for at least 22 hours every day. This means you’ll still need them for work, school, meetings, parties, and whatever else you have planned for the day. The American Association of Orthodontics also advises people to use clear aligners to avoid soda, sports drinks, and any other liquid that contains acid or sugar, as they might seep into your aligners and cause decay. They also advise that your teeth and aligners be pristine every time they enter your mouth. Finally, there is the potential for failure.
Attachments
You may enter the Invisalign process believing that the trays are the only items required to get your ideal smile. This may be true, but in some cases, bracket-like attachments will be provided to help move your teeth more effectively. These attachments are enamel-coloured and will blend in with your aligners and teeth, but many people have problems with them staining or changing colour. If you drink your coffee and tea in moderation and brush your teeth afterwards, you should be alright!
What happens next?
Are you ready to move forward with Invisalign, have further questions, or want to learn more about other options for your smile journey? Visit us for a complete consultation.
We can decide on the best treatment strategy for you and your smile together! Our major concerns at Goodridge Family Dentistry are your dental care experience and delivering you with a great result.