As more people look to improve their appearance with a straighter smile, Invisalign® clear aligners have become a popular choice. Many patients seeking orthodontic treatment find that clear aligners offer a more comfortable and convenient experience than that afforded with traditional metal braces.
There are myriad things to consider when deciding on the method to straighten your smile. These five may tip the scales in favor of using invisible aligners.
Regular visits to an orthodontist are a routine part of wearing metal braces. Between maintenance and tightening, patients can expect to see an orthodontist every four to six weeks. A general dentist can coordinate Invisalign® treatments. There is often no need to visit a specialist, and adjustments are made automatically by moving to the next set of aligner trays. Patients simply stop in for a quick recheck and pick up the next several sets of aligner trays.
There are no sudden tightening adjustments that leave patients too sore to eat for a few days. Instead, teeth are gently and gradually moved into the desired position. Each minor adjustment is made over the course of one to two weeks, so patients have time to get accustomed to the new positioning. Trays are carefully crafted for optimal comfort during the process. Patients do not have to worry about sharp edges or metal wires that might scrape or poke against gums.
Oral health is a crucial component of overall health and wellness. Cleaning and flossing around traditional braces can be difficult. At worst, patients stop flossing altogether. With invisible braces, patients can remove trays to keep teeth clean just like before. The trays can be brushed with toothpaste each time. Periodic soaking in a special cleaner helps to keep them fresh and clear.
Traditional metal braces require patients undergoing treatment to make dietary adjustments to avoid damaging the metal components. The result is often a restricted diet that can affect overall physical and dental health. On the other hand, Invisalign® aligners are easy to take in and out, so users are free to eat almost anything throughout treatment. Patients remove them for every meal, snack, or non-water drink, so there are no dietary restrictions associated with their use.
One of the significant benefits of braces is their ability to increase confidence by producing a straighter smile. Yet patients must undergo a year or more of having a mouthful of potentially embarrassing and unsightly metalwork. The virtually clear trays used to correct dental alignment help restore confidence. No one even has to know trays are being worn, making it an excellent treatment option for professionals looking for a discreet solution to misaligned teeth.
Before choosing Invisalign®, individuals often have a number of questions.
During the initial appointment, the dentist will examine the teeth and take X-rays. Based on the results, a customized plan will be mapped out. The aligners are specifically designed to place pressure and the proper force to gently move the teeth into the desired position. The dentist will check the progress at certain intervals and make any adjustments as needed.
The specific timeline varies based on a number of factors, with the severity of the misalignment being a major one. Minor misalignments may only take six months to straighten, while more moderate misalignments may require 12 to 18 months to get results.
Although clear aligners are a good choice for many people, they are not necessarily for everyone. The aligners may not produce the intended results for those with major misalignments, so traditional braces may be a better option.
Even for those with minor issues, wearing the aligners requires dedication and responsibility. Although they are removable, they should be worn at least 22 hours a day for the best results. They can also get lost or thrown away when taken out for eating, so one must keep track of them to prevent loss.
There are many options for teeth straightening on the market today. The Invisalign® system offers a comfortable, convenient method to move teeth safely and gradually. Patients can maintain a standard diet, and the trays are easy to keep clean.
Request an appointment here: https://www.hermannparksmiles.com or call Hermann Park Smiles at (713) 379-2767 for an appointment in our Houston office.
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