We all want that perfect smile, right? It’s a goal that many people have. There are many different types of orthodontic treatments. While the majority of people tend to use traditional methods such as braces, it’s nice to know there are modern solutions. Invisalign, and other clear aligners, are a great way to get the perfect smile and transform your teeth. These clear aligners are discreet and easy to use.
In this guide, we will explore Invisalign and other similar options. Here, you can find the pros and cons, what to expect, and other helpful factors to help you determine whether they are the right choice for your needs. Smith Dental Care is an Invisalign provider and a certified provider of clear aligner solutions. Work with them to get your questions answered and explore your options today.
Understanding the Value of Orthodontic Treatments
Using orthodontic solutions isn’t always just about achieving a beautiful smile. While it certainly does help with this, it also can play a significant role in improving or supporting your oral health. When teeth are properly aligned, they are much easier to take care of. This can help reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues as well.
In addition, aligned teeth could improve your chewing efficiency and help prevent or reduce jaw issues related to misalignment. The boost in self-confidence is certainly a winning factor in a straight smile, but there are many other benefits to be aware of as well.
Invisalign solutions are tailored to your personalized needs for teeth alignment. They’re an effective way to get a customized plan for your perfect smile.
All About Invisalign
You probably have heard the name “Invisalign.” While this is technically a specific brand of clear aligners, many people use it as a category. There are other brands as well. These are clear aligners that are custom designed for your teeth. You wear them throughout the day, removing them to eat. The aligners come in phases as your teeth begin to move.
The goal of aligners is very similar to that of braces. They are designed to help straighten your teeth gradually. The first aligners were developed in the late 1990s, and they have evolved significantly since that time. They are known for offering a discreet solution that provides an alternative to traditional metal braces. Aligners are custom made to each patient, as well as each stage of their correction process.
The Invisalign brand was introduced in 1997. It has become one of the leading names in the clear aligner industry. Again, you will find there are many brands. You will also find that many people refer to all clear aligners as Invisalign, but this is a common misconception of the name details.
When Invisalign and other clear aligners were introduced to the market, they represented a significant shift in the orthodontic industry, providing an alternative that many felt was more aesthetic, particularly adults who didn’t want to wear traditional braces.
These aligners apply controlled force to your teeth. As you progress through the stages, your teeth will gradually move into the desired positioning toward your goals. You will work through a series of aligners, with each one having slight adjustments from the prior trays. The aligners are made of medical-grade plastic materials that are nearly invisible when worn.
If you’ve ever wondered why someone would use clear aligners, it’s typically because they prefer the discreet appearance. Let’s take a quick look at the difference between aligners and braces for treatment.
Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces
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When it comes to choosing the right solution for your needs, it is important to research all of your options and then weigh your goals against the solutions available. Invisalign and clear aligners can achieve many of the same things that braces can. However, you should know that braces are typically better for more complex needs, as they do offer some additional capability.
Both methods are effective for teeth straightening purposes, and both offer pros and cons. These are where you might find the most differences:
- Cost
- Maintenance and care
- Treatment duration
- Comfort
- Visual aesthetics
The costs can vary significantly between the two. Ultimately, your costs are going to depend on a lot of factors, such as your needs or the types of materials you use. Invisalign costs typically range anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000, while braces average around $2,000 to $7,000. Again, this can depend on several factors.
Braces stay on your teeth, so you have to work around them when brushing or flossing. Some people find this difficult, but there are tools out there to help. Clear aligners come out so you can brush and floss your teeth and then clean the aligners based on their instructions. You will find that you have more dietary restrictions with braces, as they can be sensitive to certain foods. With clear aligners, you remove them to eat so there aren’t as many restrictions.
Treatment duration will depend on your needs. However, the treatment timeline with clear aligners is usually faster than with traditional braces. If you wear the aligners as recommended, your treatment will likely be complete within 12-18 months. Braces typically take anywhere from 18-24 months to complete.
Comfort is going to depend on your preferences and sensitivities. Many people feel clear aligners are more comfortable because of the way they fit. They are less likely to cause irritation or discomfort against your gums, lips, and cheeks. However, you may still experience some discomfort from the snug fit of the aligners on your teeth.
Finally, the visual aesthetics are perhaps one of the biggest differences. Those who choose clear aligners often prefer the invisible appearance that is much more discreet. Braces are more obvious and noticeable, although there is nothing wrong with the visibility. Again, this really depends on your personal preferences in terms of visibility and appearance.
The Best Benefits of Invisalign Solutions
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There are many great benefits to using Invisalign solutions. Here, we will cover the best-known benefits of using clear aligners.
Aesthetic Advantages
One of the top reasons people choose to use clear aligners is the aesthetic advantage. Some people simply do not like the visible or bulky appearance of braces. Clear aligners provide people who are concerned with visibility with an option that is nearly invisible.
These offer a discreet solution, particularly for adults who prefer the invisible look. These are made with clear plastic materials, yet they are sturdy enough to get the job done for your straightening goals. The discreet and invisible appearance is highly sought after, allowing treatment to take place without the whole world knowing about it. It’s a great choice for adults or professionals who may feel self-conscious about wearing visible braces that are more obvious during treatment.
Comfort and Convenience
Another great benefit is that clear aligners tend to be more comfortable and far more convenient. When you wear traditional braces, there are a lot of restrictions on what you can or cannot eat and drink. You have to worry about tearing off brackets or hurting your teeth. You also have to be mindful of staining and other issues.
Clear aligners are much more comfortable on your teeth, and you have fewer restrictions. You simply remove them when you are eating or when you’re drinking something that could stain, like coffee. Clear aligners fit onto your teeth, almost like a glove. They are formed to your teeth so they are not bulky, poky, or anything else. They are not likely to have wires poking your cheek or parts of the materials that rub on your gums and lips, either. This greatly reduces the possibility of the irritation or discomfort that is often associated with traditional braces.
You may experience some minor discomfort with your clear aligners, particularly when you switch to a new tray. As your mouth adjusts, this discomfort will ease.
Removable as Needed
One of the best things about clear aligners is the ability to remove them when and where you need to. Most of the time, they come with a small case that you can store them in when removed.
You can remove the aligners when you need to brush and floss. There are also very specific protocols for how to properly clean your aligners. You can (and should) remove your aligners when you are eating. These are typically the only times it is recommended to remove your aligners, but you have the ability to remove them if you have another reason that comes up.
Just keep in mind that for the best results, you need to be sure to wear them at least 22 hours per day. Removal should be limited to as needed.
Shorter Treatment Times
The average treatment time for Invisalign customers is about 12-18 months. This can change a little bit depending on your needs and how your teeth progress along the way. You get great results in a faster timeframe than you would with traditional braces.
In addition, you typically don’t have to visit the orthodontist quite as often for clear aligners, although you will get updated aligners on a regular basis throughout treatment. Many advancements through the years have led to people being able to get quicker results using aligners.
Who Should Consider Using Invisalign?
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Invisalign and clear aligners are not perfect for everyone. Those who seek or need orthodontic treatment have unique needs. There are some things braces may be able to do that clear aligners may not be able to.
Aligners are designed specifically for straightening purposes. They can be used for many different age groups. They are perhaps most popular with adults, but there is some popularity with teenagers as well. The most popular age is adults in the professional industry.
Clear aligners are typically recommended for treating mild to moderate orthodontic needs, such as these:
- Crowding
- Spacing
- Overbite
- Crossbite
Whether you’re a teenager who is self-conscious about the idea of braces or you’re an adult who simply never was able to get braces before, they can be a great choice!
When Invisalign May Not Be a Good Fit
While clear aligners are typically great for most needs, there are times when they may not be the practical solution. It’s very important to work with a professional provider who has experience working with Invisalign and other clear aligners to know the best solution for your needs.
Invisalign is not a top choice for someone who needs significant movement or perhaps has severe orthodontic issues. They may not be a strong enough solution for significant needs, which is why consulting with a certified provider is so important.
The Invisalign Process
The process of Invisalign will be tailored to your specific needs. Your journey will start with a consultation at Smith Dental Care. Here, you and the provider can get to know each other, discuss any questions you may have, and determine whether clear aligners are a good solution for you.
The process will look a little something like this:
- Consultation process and assessment
- Digital scans
- Treatment plan and timeline
- Deliver aligners
- Monitoring progress
Let’s look at these steps in a little more detail.
1. Consultation Process and Assessment
A consultation is essential to understand the treatment process and ensure you and the provider are on the same page. The certified provider will assess your teeth and your needs with a thorough examination. They will explain what you can expect as well. This is a good time to ask any questions you may have.
2. Digital Scans
There was a time when molds would be used for preparation, but thanks to technology, 3D digital scanning technology gives the provider all the detail they need. These scans will generally be completed at your initial assessment. They will be used to create and fit your custom aligners.
3. Treatment Plan and Timeline
When digital scans are complete and your provider has analyzed your straightening needs, a treatment plan is created just for you. This plan will outline the expected movement of your teeth throughout the process. It also will provide a general guideline for the estimated duration of treatment. Treatment plans and timelines are specific to the needs of the patient. Your aligners will follow a series of aligners designed to progressively move your teeth into the desired position.
4. Deliver Aligners
When scans are complete and a treatment plan is created, these details will be sent to an Invisalign or alternative clear aligner producer. They will use the scans and treatment to create custom aligners. Those aligners will be delivered to you with specific instructions for the sequence of trays and when to progress to the next set. Follow all provided instructions for wear and care to ensure you get the results you are looking for.
5. Monitoring Progress
As you progress through your treatment plan, you will need to have regular checkups with the dentist. This allows them to ensure that you are progressing as you should be. They can also make any necessary adjustments to keep you on track with your treatment plan. While regular check-ins are required, you will find that they go relatively quickly and they are not required quite as often as braces appointments typically are. This offers some convenience.
Living with Invisalign
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When you start wearing aligners, there will be an adjustment period. Your mouth may be sore for the first few days as it adjusts. Speaking may take a couple of days as well, since you have something foreign in your mouth. Stay hydrated and stick it out, because the results are well worth it!
Side effects are rare and discomfort is typically mild and temporary. You can use over-the-counter pain relief as needed, but if you experience persistent pain be sure to speak to your dentist. Make sure you practice good oral hygiene habits during your treatments. Brush and floss twice per day, and clean your aligners following the instructions provided.
Common Questions About Invisalign
- How long does treatment take? Invisalign treatment averages 12-18 months.
- What if I lose or damage my aligners? Speak to your dentist as quickly as possible and they can advise you on what to do in this scenario.
- Can I still play sports or a musical instrument? Yes, you can. You can remove your aligners as needed for these purposes. However, you should also consider wearing them during these times and adjusting to them if able to do so.
- Will aligners affect my speech? You may notice a difference in your speech when you first start wearing aligners. This typically only lasts a few days as your mouth gets used to wearing the aligners and adjusts.
- What do I do for special occasions or social events? Invisalign and other aligners are clear, making them nearly invisible. They likely won’t be noticeable by others at special occasions or events. However, you can remove them for short periods for these events. Just keep in mind that you need to wear your aligners at least 22 hours per day.
Preparing for the Cost of Aligners
The costs for aligners can vary depending on the brand that is used, the treatment needed, and several other factors as well. Your provider will be able to give you a detailed estimate of costs to expect. On average, aligners cost anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000, with most treatments falling somewhere in the middle.
Your costs will depend on your unique circumstances, but this average could help set your expectations for planning purposes. The costs are very similar to braces, although they can be more expensive in some cases.
Some dental insurance plans provide coverage for Invisalign and other orthodontic treatments. This is going to be specific to your insurance. You can plan ahead by checking out your insurance to see if they cover treatment and how much they will cover. You may need to be prepared for out-of-pocket expenses. There are also some dental plans that provide little to no orthodontics coverage, which is why it is so important to check your insurance details for clear expectations.
Some dental offices provide financing solutions or payment plans due to the high costs for orthodontic treatments. Check with your dental office to see what is available.
Choosing a Great Invisalign Provider
Having a great experience really depends on working with a provider who is qualified and great at what they do. Whether you choose Invisalign or another clear aligner brand, work with a provider who is certified and trained to work with clear aligners.
Check for providers who have appropriate experience and qualifications. When you have your consultation, you can ask questions about their experience, their processes, whether they have a portfolio, and get to know everything you need to put your mind at ease.
Maintaining a Smile Post-Invisalign
When you finish your Invisalign treatment, the job isn’t done. You’re going to need to follow all tips and recommendations from your provider in order to maintain your stunning new smile. Most people have to wear a retainer. You may also get a permanent retainer to hold your teeth in place. Your provider will instruct you.
Just be sure to follow all instructions and get follow-ups as recommended for monitoring purposes.
Choosing Your Best Option
Invisalign and other clear aligner solutions are a great choice for a discreet, quick treatment to create your perfect smile. If you’re considering aligners, let Smith Dental Care help you out! Our office has extensive experience working with aligner solutions and can help you choose the solution that is best for your needs. Contact us today to get started.
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