Amazing Benefits of Invisalign That You Need To Know

If you are like most people, you probably think of braces as a rite of passage for kids. But what you may not know is that Invisalign can provide just as many benefits as traditional braces — and it’s for adults, too!

Invisalign is one of the most popular methods of straightening teeth, and for a good reason! In addition to being virtually invisible, Invisalign has many other benefits that you need to know about. Keep reading to learn more about why it could be the right choice for you!

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a type of brace that is clear and almost invisible. The aligner is made with a smooth, comfortable medical-grade plastic that does not irritate your gums like metal braces.

Invisalign is an excellent option for people who want to improve their flawed smiles without the hassle of traditional braces.

The invisible aligners address a wide variety of dental problems, including crowding, spacing, and bite alignment issues. This revolutionary treatment involves a multi-step process that begins with a consultation with your dentist.

During the consultation, your dentist will take 3D scans and images, which will be used to create a treatment plan for your Invisalign aligners. Once the treatment plan is created, Invisalign will create a series of custom-made aligners based on your case. The aligners will gradually move your teeth into their proper position.

Invisalign offers many benefits. However, it is not recommended for people with severe dental problems. If you have complex dental issues, you should see a dentist discuss your options.

What Are The Benefits Of Invisalign Treatment?

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses clear plastic aligners to straighten teeth. Compared to traditional braces, Invisalign has a number of benefits:

• Invisalign is more aesthetically pleasing.
  With conventional braces, metal brackets and wires are clearly visible on the teeth. With Invisalign, the clear plastic aligners are barely visible, making them a popular choice for adults and teenagers alike.
• Invisalign is more comfortable.
  Traditional braces can cause discomfort and pain, especially during the initial adjustment period. Invisalign is much more comfortable, as there are no metal brackets or wires to cause irritation. With Invisalign, you can get beautiful teeth with less pain.
• Invisalign is more discreet.
  As mentioned before, traditional braces are highly visible and can often attract unwanted attention. Invisalign is much more discreet and can be worn without anyone knowing that you are undergoing orthodontic treatment.
• Invisalign is more efficient.
  Unlike traditional dental braces, which can take years to achieve optimal results, Invisalign can often achieve similar results in a shorter period of time.
• Invisalign is easier to maintain.
  Traditional braces require regular brushing and flossing to keep the teeth clean and healthy. Invisalign can be removed for brushing and flossing, making it much easier to maintain good oral hygiene habits while undergoing dental treatment.

Why Would I Need Invisalign?

Invisalign is indicated for mild to moderate dental issues. These include:

• Crooked teeth:
  This is the most common reason people seek out Invisalign treatment. Crooked teeth can be caused by several factors, including genetics, thumb sucking, and injury.
• Overcrowded teeth:
  Crowded teeth occur when there is not enough room in the mouth for all of the teeth. This can cause many problems, including tooth decay and gum disease.
• Gaps in teeth:
  Often, people have gaps between their teeth that they are self-conscious about. Invisalign can close these gaps and give you a beautiful, attractive smile.
• Overbite:
  An overbite is when the top teeth protrude over the bottom teeth. This can make chewing difficult. It can also increase a person’s risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
• Underbite:
  An underbite is when the bottom teeth protrude in front of the upper teeth. Like an overbite, an underbite can cause chewing difficulties and increases the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
• Crossbite:
  A crossbite is when the teeth do not line up correctly when you bite down. This can cause some problems, including difficulty chewing and an increased risk of developing cavities and periodontal disease.
• Open bite:
  An open bite is when there is a space between the teeth when you bite down. Like underbites and crossbites, unmanaged cases of this condition have the same consequences.

Invisalign can also be used to rotate teeth or tilt them into better alignment. You may be a good candidate for Invisalign if you have a mild to moderate case of misaligned teeth, but your teeth and gums are healthy. If you have severe crowding, spacing, or bite problems, Invisalign may not be right for you. A consultation with a dentist will help determine your treatment options.

How Long Should Invisalign Be Worn?

Invisalign treatments typically last anywhere from 9 to 15 months, but some patients may need to wear their aligners for a shorter or longer period of time. In general, Invisalign should be worn for 20 to 22 hours each day. The aligners should only be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing.

While Invisalign is often advertised as a quicker, more convenient alternative to traditional braces, the length of treatment can vary depending on several factors.

The type and severity of dental issues being addressed are perhaps the most important factors in Invisalign treatment time. More complex cases that require significant tooth movement may take longer to address than simpler issues.

In addition, Invisalign works most effectively when worn for at least 20 hours per day. Patients who are unable to wear their aligners for this amount of time may find that their treatment takes longer than expected.

Finally, Invisalign patients must attend regular check-ups with their dentist to ensure the treatment is progressing as planned. These appointments are typically scheduled every 6-8 weeks, and missing one can lengthen the overall duration of treatment.

As with any orthodontic treatment, it is important to be patient and follow your dentist’s instructions to achieve optimal results.

If you are considering Invisalign, the best way to find out how long your treatment will take is to consult with a dentist. They will be able to develop a personalised treatment plan based on your individual needs. But generally, most people can expect to wear Invisalign for about a year.

Is Invisalign Painful?

Invisalign is not painful. However, you may experience some discomfort when you first get your Invisalign aligners and switch to a new set of aligners. The Invisalign aligners put pressure on your teeth to move them into the desired position.

The discomfort associated with Invisalign is usually mild and temporary, and many patients find it disappears after a few days of wearing the aligners.

Invisalign is also less painful than traditional braces, which can rub and poke your gums and cheeks. If you experience discomfort with Invisalign, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help. You can also try using dental wax to cover any sharp edges on your Invisalign aligners.

If you have any concerns about pain or discomfort with Invisalign, talk to your dentist about it.

What Are The Side Effects Of Invisalign?

Invisalign is generally very safe and effective, but like any treatment, there are potential side effects. The most common Invisalign side effects are mild and temporary, but more serious side effects can occur in rare cases.

The primary side effect of Invisalign is discomfort during the first few days of wearing the aligners. This is caused by the pressure of the aligners on the teeth and gums. The discomfort usually goes away within a few days as the teeth and gums adjust to the Invisalign.

Other common side effects, which are also usually mild and temporary, include:

• Dry mouth and bad breath:
  Wearing aligners can cause a decrease in saliva production in the mouth for some, which can lead to dry mouth and bad breath.
• Increased saliva production:
  Others may produce more saliva than usual when wearing Invisalign. This is usually due to increased awareness of a foreign object in the mouth.
• Tenderness or soreness of the teeth and gums:
  As your teeth shift, you may experience some soreness in your teeth and gums.
• Headaches:
  Others may experience headaches when first wearing Invisalign because of the changes in their bite.
• Speech difficulties:
  In some people, the aligners can cause a lisp or other speech difficulties. This is usually due to the tongue being unable to move freely.
• Cheek biting:
  When the teeth are shifting, and the mouth has not yet adjusted to their new position, some people may bite their cheeks more often when first wearing Invisalign.

More serious Invisalign side effects are rare but can occur in some cases. These side effects include:

• Root resorption:
  In rare cases, when the pressure from the aligners moves your teeth, it can cause the roots of your teeth to become shorter.
• Tooth enamel loss:
  Invisalign can also cause some loss of tooth enamel loss. This happens when people do not clean their teeth properly or when the aligners are not fitted correctly.
• Gum disease:
  If you do not practise good oral hygiene with Invisalign, it can trap plaque, and the bacteria in it can cause gum disease.
• TMJ disorders:
  Although it is very unlikely, Invisalign may worsen TMJ disorders. When the teeth are moved, the muscles and joints that control jaw movement can be affected.

In most cases, these more serious side effects can be avoided by following your dentist’s instructions carefully and having regular check-ups.

If you experience any Invisalign side effects that are bothersome or concerning, be sure to talk to your dentist immediately. With proper care and attention, Invisalign can be a safe and successful way to achieve straighter teeth.

What Happens If I Don’t Wear My Invisalign As Directed?

Invisalign only works if it is worn as directed. To achieve the desired results, each set of aligners must be worn for at least 20 hours per day.

If Invisalign is not worn as directed, treatment will take longer and may be less effective. This is because the teeth can begin to shift back into their original position. When this happens, your current aligners may not fit properly. Sometimes, patients may even have to start over with a new set of aligners or use their previous set.

Therefore, it is important that patients follow their dentist’s instructions and wear Invisalign as directed in order to obtain the optimal outcome.

How Can I Properly Care For My Invisalign Aligner?

Invisalign aligners must be properly cared for to maintain their clear appearance and effectiveness. The following are some tips and suggestions on how to care for Invisalign aligners properly:

• Remove the aligners before eating or drinking. This will help to prevent staining and keep the aligners clean.
• Brush your teeth before putting the aligners back in. This will help to remove any food particles or plaque that could get trapped under the aligners.
• Clean the aligners daily with Invisalign’s cleaning system (which includes a cleaning crystal and travel case) or with mild soap and lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water, as this can warp the aligners.
• Store the aligners in their case when they are not being worn. This will help to keep them clean and free from dust and other debris.
• Avoid crunchy, chewy, and sticky foods because they can damage the aligners or bits of food can get stuck in them.
• Limit your intake of sugary and acidic drinks, as they can cause tooth decay and gum disease.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your Invisalign aligners stay clean and effective throughout the course of your treatment.

Final Thoughts

If you are considering Invisalign to straighten your teeth, it is important to be aware of the potential benefits of Invisalign treatment as well as the drawbacks.

Invisalign has many advantages, including the fact that it is virtually invisible, comfortable to wear, and removable for eating and cleaning. Additionally, Invisalign does not require the use of metal brackets or wires, which makes it a more cosmetically appealing option for many people.

While Invisalign is an effective treatment option for many people, it is not right for everyone. Invisalign may not be suitable for managing more complex dental issues, and it is important to discuss all of your options with your dentist before deciding if Invisalign is right for you.

At Maylands Dental Centre, we offer free consultations so that you can explore all of your options and make the right decision for your individual needs. Book an appointment online or call us today at (08) 9370 5464 to learn more about Invisalign and how it can help you achieve a beautiful smile!