If your teeth are crowded or if you have an obvious malocclusion like an underbite, then you are probably already self-aware about your smile. And, while you may want to fix your orthodontic problem, wearing bulky metal braces for a couple of years doesn't seem very appealing.
Fortunately, this is not the only option you have anymore.
With the help of clear aligners like Invisalign, people with orthodontic issues can access a type of treatment that is more subtle and comfortable.
But you may have heard that Invisalign doesn't work for everyone.
How can you tell if you're a good candidate? Keep reading to find out!
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses transparent trays to correct your bite and bring your teeth to their correct alignment.
These trays are custom-made to fit your specific needs and are changed weekly or every two weeks to match the progress of the treatment.
Invisalign can successfully treat different types of orthodontic oral health problems, such as open bites, crossbites, and gapped or crooked teeth, to name just a few.
Because the trays are made from transparent plastic and are virtually invisible, a lot of people prefer this type of treatment. Moreover, you can take the trays off when you are eating and for cleaning them (and your teeth).
Is Invisalign for Everyone?
Unfortunately, not everyone can benefit from Invisalign treatment. While the aligners can treat a wide variety of orthodontic issues, their effectiveness largely depends on the severity of the problem.
If your problem is more complex, then you will likely need traditional braces to fix it.
Invisalign in Alexandria also requires quite a big commitment. You must wear the trays for at least 22 hours every day for the treatment to be effective. And, yes, that means you have to sleep with the aligners too. You also need to be diligent about your oral care and carefully clean both your teeth and your aligners. If you are not careful, food particles and bacteria will accumulate in your trays, giving them a yellowish color. And, because your teeth will be coated in the bacteria trapped inside your aligners, your oral health will be at risk too.
How to Tell If Invisalign Is Right for Me
There's only one way to tell if Invisalign is the right treatment for you: talking with a dentist.
If you're interested in clear aligners and would like to learn more about how this treatment works, and if you are a good candidate, get in touch with the team at Kingstowne Dental Specialists.
We will carefully examine your orthodontic issue, listen to your desires and expectations, and together find the best solution for your case. Whether it's Invisalign or traditional braces, you can rest assured you will have a highly experienced team on your side.
Don't hesitate to contact us to schedule your appointment for a thorough evaluation.