Searching for teeth-straightening solutions as a teen or an adult can mean
choosing between traditional metal braces, and a revolutionary clear solution called
Invisalign®, a cosmetic solution to gradually adjust the alignment of the
teeth. The clear aligners, or trays, are swapped out for a new set every couple
of weeks, and can be removed for eating and cleaning.
Similar to traditional braces, Invisalign addresses a number of
orthodontic-related issues, leaving patients with straighter smiles. When
choosing your orthodontia, consider the following benefits associated with
Invisalign®:
Clear Trays: Traditional
braces are known for their unsightly and uncomfortable metal wires and braces.
However, Invisalign® trays can hardly be detected by others, making your
orthodontic experience discreet. Unlike the rather bulky hardware associated
with traditional braces, Invisalign® uses clear plastic trays are custom fit to
your teeth, providing a greater level of comfort and no chance of damaging the
gum or the inside of the mouth.
Less Dental Office Time: On average, traditional orthodontia treatment can take a several years to complete. With Invisalign ®, patients can correct
bite misalignment in as a few months to a year. As the aligners are created ahead
of time, Invisalign® patients visit their orthodontist fewer times, typically
to ensure treatment is going according to schedule and to receive their next
set of aligners
.
Convenience: One of the great
benefits of Invisalign® is that the clear plastic trays can be removed. This
allows the wearer to eat without limitations, thoroughly clean their teeth, and
clean the appliance itself. Keeping teeth clean and free of bacteria is important
at all times, but doing so is challenging when teeth are fitted with metal
braces and brackets.
Dedication: Invisalign® is
available for teens and adults who are dedicated to their treatment plan. While
the success of the Invisalign® relies on the patient’s dedication to their unique
treatment plan, patients who to voluntarily wear their clear aligners for 22
hours a day often enjoy long-lasting results.
Responsibility: Invisalign®
aligners are transparent and if misplaced can be difficult to locate. One
challenge is the possibility of losing an aligner when it is removed for meals
and cleanings. When aligners are lost, patients have to cope with added costs
to have them replaced, which may also delay the completion of their treatment.
While all these points can impact your experience, the best course of
action is to talk to your dentist about which teeth straightening solution is
right for you. At South Bay Dentistry and Orthodontics, our dental team is
dedicated to helping patients discover the best treatment for correcting their
smile. Contact our Gardena dental office today for more information about the benefits of
clear orthodontia and Invisalign®.