Why Is Invisalign Preferred Over Traditional Braces?

Orthodontic treatments have come a long way since the advent of traditional metal braces. With the introduction of options like Invisalign, patients now have the luxury of choosing a teeth-straightening treatment that fits their lifestyle best, offering them a beautiful smile and a comfortable and convenient experience. But why exactly is Invisalign gaining popularity over old-school braces? Let’s dive in and find out.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a brand of clear aligners that are used as an alternative to traditional braces to straighten teeth and correct various orthodontic issues. It’s a popular and innovative orthodontic treatment option that offers a more discreet and comfortable way to achieve a straighter smile. Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, removable, and custom-made for each patient’s unique dental structure and oral health care.

Invisalign Treatment Process

  • Consultation: The process begins with a consultation with a trained orthodontist or dentist experienced with Invisalign. During this visit, the orthodontic professional evaluates your teeth and bite to determine if Invisalign is a suitable treatment option for you.
  • Treatment Plan: If Invisalign is deemed appropriate for your case, the orthodontist will develop a customized treatment plan. This includes digital impressions or scans of your teeth, which create a 3D mouth model. Using this model, the orthodontist can map out the precise movements of your teeth throughout the treatment process.
  • Aligner Fabrication: Based on the treatment plan, a series of clear plastic aligners are custom-made for you. These aligners are designed to shift your teeth into their desired positions over time gradually. Each set of aligners represents a different stage of your treatment plan.
  • Wearing the Aligners: You will receive a set of aligners to wear sequentially, typically changing them every one to two weeks. The aligners are worn for about 20-22 hours daily, only removed for eating, drinking (except water), brushing, and flossing.
  • Progress Checkups: During your treatment, you’ll have regular checkup appointments with your orthodontist. These appointments allow the orthodontist to monitor your progress and ensure your teeth move as planned.
  • Advancement to the Next Aligner: As you progress through your aligner sets, your teeth gradually shift into their desired positions. Each new aligner in the series continues guiding your teeth to the desired alignment.
  • Completion: Once you’ve completed the full series of aligners, your teeth should have reached their intended positions. However, the orthodontist might recommend wearing a retainer to help maintain the new alignment.

Why Invisalign Is Preferred?

1. Aesthetically Pleasing

  • Practically Invisible: Invisalign aligners are made from clear, transparent plastic, which makes them almost impossible to notice when worn. This feature particularly appeals to individuals conscious about their appearance during orthodontic treatment.
  • Customized Fit: Each set of Invisalign aligners is customized to fit your teeth precisely. This enhances their effectiveness in shifting teeth and ensures a comfortable fit that doesn’t impede speech or cause discomfort.
  • Confidence Boost: The discreet nature of Invisalign aligners allows patients to undergo orthodontic treatment with increased confidence. Unlike traditional braces, there’s no need to worry about metal wires and brackets affecting your smile’s aesthetics.

2. Removable and Comfortable

  • Enhanced Comfort: Invisalign aligners are made of smooth plastic material, eliminating the potential for discomfort from metal brackets or wires. This smoothness reduces the likelihood of irritation to the cheeks and gums.
  • Convenient Removability: Invisalign aligners can be easily removed, offering flexibility that traditional braces can’t provide. This feature is especially appreciated during meals, special occasions, and while participating in activities that traditional braces might hinder.

3. Treatment Duration

  • Efficiency Through Technology: Invisalign treatment plans utilize advanced computer technology to map out the movement of teeth at every stage meticulously. This precision contributes to more predictable and efficient tooth alignment, often resulting in shorter treatment times.
  • Customized Progression: The treatment plan is broken down into a series of aligners, each designed to move your teeth incrementally. As you progress through the aligners, your teeth gradually shift according to the plan, helping to minimize the overall treatment duration.

4. Maintaining Dental Hygiene

  • Uninterrupted Oral Care: Traditional braces can pose challenges to oral hygiene due to the presence of brackets and wires that can trap food particles and make brushing and flossing more difficult. Invisalign aligners can be easily removed, allowing for thorough brushing and flossing and maintaining optimal oral health.
  • Reduced Risk of Complications: Effective oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment to prevent gum disease or tooth decay. Invisalign’s removability helps reduce the risk of such complications compared to traditional braces.

5. Cost

  • Comparable Costs: One common misconception about Invisalign is that it is costlier than traditional braces. However, the average Invisalign cost estimate is comparable to the price of conventional braces. Factors influencing the cost include the complexity of your case, treatment duration, and geographic location.
  • Investment in Comfort and Aesthetics: Many patients consider the convenience, comfort, and discreet appearance of Invisalign aligners valuable. While costs may vary, the benefits often outweigh any potential cost differences.

One benefit of Invisalign is that it may help to avoid situations where a root canal, an often-dreaded dental procedure, might be necessary. Misaligned teeth can sometimes contribute to tooth decay because they are more difficult to clean. If decay reaches the tooth’s nerve, a root canal may be the only solution to save the tooth. Learn more about root canals by asking your dentist or by searching online. 

Conclusion

The choice between Invisalign and traditional braces is based on personal preference, the complexity of the dental case, and a professional’s recommendation. However, with the aesthetic appeal, reduced discomfort, and easy maintenance, it’s no surprise that Invisalign is quickly becoming the preferred option for teeth straightening by both dentists and patients alike. Remember – a healthy, confident smile is always worth the investment.