Invisalign is a sophisticated system that allows people with mild to moderate orthodontic issues to correct their smiles discreetly. The Invisalign system consists of clear plastic aligners that change every one to two weeks, gradually shifting the teeth into better positions.
Discretion
When using Invisalign, no one needs to know that you are straightening your teeth. Invisalign works without drawing unwanted attention, like you may receive if you have traditional braces. Over time, people will notice your increasing self-confidence and your improved smile.
Comfort
Invisalign is much more comfortable than traditional braces. Braces can irritate or even scar the inside of your lips and cheeks. Invisalign is low-profile and gentle on the delicate tissues inside the mouth. You will quickly become accustomed to wearing the aligners, and you will barely notice them over time.
Better Oral Hygiene
When you have Invisalign, you can keep your teeth cleaner than with traditional braces. Maneuvering a toothbrush and floss around braces can be challenging at best. Some braces patients’ gum health suffers due to the inability to clear away damaging plaque. They may also experience more tooth decay due to poor oral hygiene.
Lower Risk of Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
After you straighten your teeth with Invisalign, you will be in better shape regarding your oral health. Straighter teeth are easier to keep clean because food and plaque have fewer places to collect.
Eat What You Want
You can’t always eat what you want when you have regular braces. Corn on the cob, popcorn, candy, and other foods are prohibited.
When you have Invisalign, you take out your aligners to eat. As long as you properly clean your aligners and your teeth after eating, you can eat whatever you want within reason.
Speed of Treatment
If you leave your aligners in for the recommended 22 hours per day, you will see faster results than you would with ordinary braces. The length of treatment depends on the severity of your orthodontic issues. The average treatment with braces takes about 18 months to 3 years, while Invisalign generally takes between 12 and 18 months.
Am I a Good Candidate for Invisalign?
Good candidates for Invisalign share the following traits:
- The best candidates are adults or older teens who have stopped growing
- Mild to moderate malocclusion or orthodontic bite issues
- Ability to follow directions and spend the required time wearing the aligners daily
- Ability to keep the aligners clean
Contact Maine Dentistry
Invisalign is an effective treatment that can reshape your smile relatively quickly. It is fast, discreet, and easy to wear. Our dentists recommend Invisalign to adults and older teens.
Contact us today at our convenient Gray, Portland, or Auburn offices. We can evaluate you to determine whether you are a good candidate for Invisalign and start you toward a straighter, healthier smile.