Is Invisalign Treatment Right for You?
If you’re considering Invisalign as an orthodontic treatment option, you’ll want to consult with our dentist in Hilliard to ensure that you’re an ideal candidate. Invisalign is a popular and effective alternative to traditional metal braces, providing a more discreet and comfortable solution for many orthodontic issues. However, not everyone is a good candidate for Invisalign.
To learn more about Invisalign treatment and if it’s right for your smile goals, contact Fishinger Dental at (614) 771-6060 today to schedule a consultation.
Who Is the Ideal Invisalign Candidate?
The ideal Invisalign candidate is someone who has mild to moderate orthodontic issues. This includes crooked teeth, crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, and mild bite problems. Invisalign can also fix some cases of overbites, underbites, and crossbites.
Invisalign is particularly popular among adult and teenage patients who want to straighten their teeth discreetly without the metal wires and brackets associated with traditional metal braces. It’s also a good option for those with good oral health who are committed to wearing the aligners for the recommended 20 to 22 hours per day.
What Invisalign Can Fix
Crooked and Crowded Teeth
If your teeth are crooked or crowded, Invisalign can gradually straighten them out over time. Crooked teeth can cause issues with biting and chewing, as well as negatively impact your overall appearance. With Invisalign, treatment can help straighten your teeth and improve your oral health, while also giving you a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
Gaps Between Teeth
Invisalign trays can also close gaps between teeth. Gaps can cause food to get stuck between teeth, increase the risk of gum disease, and affect your smile. Invisalign can help move your teeth closer together and close the gaps between permanent teeth, leading to improved oral health and a more confident smile.
Overbite
If your upper front teeth overlap your lower front teeth excessively, this is called an overbite. An overbite can cause issues with speaking, eating, and jaw pain. Invisalign can correct this issue by gradually shifting your teeth into proper alignment, improving your bite, and reducing discomfort.
Underbite
An underbite, where your lower front teeth protrude past your upper front teeth, can lead to issues with chewing, speech, and jaw pain. Invisalign trays can correct this issue by gradually shifting your teeth into proper alignment, improving your bite, and reducing discomfort.
Crossbite
If some of your upper teeth bite inside your lower teeth, this is called a crossbite. A crossbite can cause tooth wear, jaw pain, and even make your face look asymmetrical. Invisalign can fix this issue by gradually shifting your teeth into proper alignment, improving your bite, and reducing discomfort.
Who Doesn’t Qualify for Invisalign?
While Invisalign is an excellent orthodontic treatment option for many people, it may not be suitable for everyone. You may not be a good candidate for Invisalign if:
- Severe Orthodontic Issues: If you have severe orthodontic issues, such as a significantly large overbite or underbite, traditional metal braces may be more effective than Invisalign.
- Young Children: Invisalign is generally not recommended for young children whose permanent incisors (front teeth) have not fully erupted. However, Invisalign Teen aligners may be an option for younger teenage patients with all their adult teeth.
- Complex Dental Issues: If you have complex dental issues, such as missing teeth, Invisalign may not be the right treatment.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Invisalign requires good oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing after every meal and snack. If you struggle with these habits, Invisalign may not be the right choice for you.
- Active Gum Disease: If you have active gum disease or other severe oral health issues, your orthodontic professional may recommend resolving these problems before starting Invisalign treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do I need to wear my Invisalign aligners?
To achieve the best results, it’s recommended that you wear your Invisalign aligners for at least 22 hours a day. You’ll need to remove them when eating, brushing your teeth, and flossing. Outside of those situations, wear them consistently as directed by your dentist to ensure that your treatment progresses as planned.
Will wearing Invisalign aligners affect my speech?
You may experience a slight lisp or difficulty pronouncing certain words during the first few days of wearing Invisalign aligners. However, most people quickly adjust to wearing the aligners, and any speech issues are temporary. If you do experience persistent speech issues, be sure to talk to your dentist.
Can I get Invisalign instead of braces?
Yes, you can choose Invisalign over traditional braces, depending on your orthodontic needs. Invisalign offers nearly invisible alignment, comfort, removability for eating and oral hygiene, and reduced office visits. However, for complex orthodontic cases, such as severely crooked teeth or a misaligned bite, traditional braces might be more effective.
Achieve Straight Teeth Through the Invisalign Process Today
Invisalign treatment can transform your smile and improve your quality of life. If you think you may be a candidate, contact our Invisalign provider today at (614) 771-6060 to schedule a consultation. Our Hilliard dental team is dedicated to helping you achieve the perfect smile of your dreams, and we are here to answer any questions you may have about Invisalign candidacy and treatment.
Take the first step towards a brighter, more beautiful smile, and get Invisalign today! We welcome new and returning patients from Columbus, Dublin, Upper Arlington, Grove City, Westerville, and surrounding areas in Ohio.