The Difference Invisalign Can Make

You may have heard of the Invisalign system that has transformed the world of orthodontics, and about how teens are increasingly opting for this tooth straightening treatment as an alternative to conventional braces. However, you may be unaware of the difference Invisalign can make in fixing orthodontic problems for adults.

Having just one or two crooked teeth can lower your self-esteem in both your private and professional life. But wearing conspicuous traditional braces can make adults feel just as self-conscious as kids, if not more so.

The solution? Invisalign clear aligners¹, which are practically invisible – as the name suggests – and provide a highly effective method of resolving orthodontic issues in youngsters and adults alike. Invisalign works on the same principles as standard braces, by applying pressure to gradually move teeth into proper alignment. Dr. Trivedi adds that Invisalign helps people who are nervous about traditional braces get the orthodontic treatment they need.

The difference with Invisalign is that there are no unsightly metal components, which means greater comfort as well as eliminating embarrassment when you smile, laugh or eat. This makes Invisalign the orthodontic treatment of choice for many adults living busy lives in public-facing roles.

Invisalign appliances are also removable, unlike fixed metal and ceramic braces. This not only avoids the oral hygiene issues associated with regular braces but also allows you to pop your aligner out for meals, sports and important events in your life.

Benefits of Invisalign State-Of-The-Art Technology

The makers of Invisalign, U.S.-based global medical appliance giant Align Technology², say the difference Invisalign can make is reflected in its status as the most advanced clear aligner system in the world.

Dentists use Invisalign to treat both simple and complex cases. The system features a proprietary SmartTrack device that provides a more controlled and predictable movement of teeth.

Align Technology describes Invisalign as a “modern, fully-digitized experience”. It adds that Invisalign treatment costs about the same as that of conventional braces and is covered by many orthodontic insurance plans.

Benefits of Invisalign compared with standard braces include:

• No risk of injury from broken wires or brackets.
• No discomfort from sharp wires.
• Results that are easy to see during each phase of treatment.
• Greater convenience, with fewer visits to the dental office.

Problems Invisalign Can Fix

Adults typically have to juggle many commitments and activities, with family and work taking priority. But that doesn’t mean you have to forsake your smile and dental wellbeing in your busy schedule.

One of the main differences Invisalign can make to your orthodontic treatment is making it easier to achieve improved appearance and health without disrupting your life.

Invisalign offers a solution for many orthodontic issues, including:

• Crooked teeth, which can result in tooth decay, bad breath, headaches, jaw disorders, and gum disease.
• Overcrowded teeth, which can cause teeth to become severely crooked.
• Gapped teeth, which make you more vulnerable to gum disease.
• Protruding teeth, which are particularly susceptible to injury.

Invisalign can also address problems with your bite function, such as:

• Underbite, when the lower teeth project beyond the upper teeth.
• Crossbite, when upper teeth bite on the inside of lower teeth.
• Overbite, when the front upper teeth overlap the lower front teeth.
• Open bite, when your upper teeth don’t make proper contact with your lower teeth.

Why Adults May Need Invisalign Treatment

As we get older, everyday wear and tear takes its toll on our teeth, potentially increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. This threat is magnified if you have an irregular bite caused by crooked teeth, which makes it easier for bacteria, food debris, plaque and tartar to accumulate on your teeth and gums.

A further problem with unresolved orthodontic issues is the possibility of a jaw complaint called Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Syndrome, which can cause headaches and earache as well as jaw and neck pain.

Studies suggest adults are just as likely to require orthodontic care as kids, and many adults take into consideration the difference Invisalign can make in addressing issues arising from factors such as:

• Not having braces as a child. If you had orthodontic problems that went untreated while you were young, this can result in your teeth becoming more crooked over time.
• Natural movement of teeth. If you did get orthodontic treatment in the past, teeth still have a natural tendency to shift slightly in adulthood.
• Physical trauma. Sports mishaps and accidents such as traffic collisions can knock your teeth out of position instantly or cause them to move out of alignment later.

Another orthodontic problem for young adults is issues in the way wisdom teeth grow in. Wisdom teeth often emerge at the wrong angle, which can push other teeth out of place, even if you previously had orthodontic therapy.

It’s Never Too Late to Get the Smile of Your Dreams!

You may have shied away from orthodontic treatment as an adult, thinking back to the cumbersome, slow-working metal braces that may have been prevalent in your younger days. Discreet Invisalign appliances can straighten your teeth in about 12 months – potentially twice as fast as regular braces.

Invisalign treatment takes the form of a series of aligners, each worn for around two weeks for 20 to 22 hours a day. With Invisalign, not all teeth are moved at the same time. This affords much more control than traditional braces.

Compared with regular fixed braces, Invisalign aligners make it much easier to get on with your everyday life – with confidence and in comfort. Invisalign can restore your smile while playing a crucial role in safeguarding your dental health. According to the American Dental Association³ (ADA), fixing crooked teeth can dramatically improve your oral health.

One possible drawback of Invisalign for kids is that they may lack the perseverance to ensure they keep their aligners in place for the recommended time each day, which will lengthen the duration of treatment. This should be less of a problem with adults, with a greater maturity and ability to demonstrate commitment and focus – hopefully!

Invisalign means you’re never too old to get the smile of your dreams – without lengthy treatment involving clunky bits of metal in your mouth. If you’re considering taking advantage of the difference Invisalign can make, schedule a consultation with a dental practice experienced in Invisalign for adults.

Resources

1. https://www.sanforddentalexcellence.com/Invisible-Wireless-Braces
2. https://www.aligntech.com/
3. https://www.ada.org/