Recently, traditional braces have gone through some serious transformations. We’re long past the days of bulky braces that stand out. These kinds of appliances have been replaced with brackets that are smaller and look better on your teeth. Modern braces are more discreet than ever, but even with improvements in their shape, size, and color, you may still not be convinced that they’re what you want to use to achieve a straighter smile. If that sounds like you, we’ve got good news—there’s another option available for aligning your teeth and improving your oral health!
At Bennett Orthodontics, we’re proud to offer Invisalign clear aligner therapy as an alternative to traditional braces. With this innovative system, you can get with braces but you won’t have any brackets, wires, or bands in your mouth. Unlike braces, which have a long history of successful use within the field of orthodontics, Invisalign has only been around for about twenty years. That means you may not be fully aware of what Invisalign actually is, and what aligners can do to correct orthodontic issues. To learn more about exactly what you can expect from the Invisalign system, keep reading below!
What is Invisalign?
While Invisalign clear aligners have only existed since the late 1990s, similar trays have been used as post-treatment retainers for decades longer. Invisalign uses unique software and misaligned teeth gradually using only a series of customized aligners. At the end of each stage, you replace your current aligner with the next in the series to keep up with the movement of your teeth. This will usually be every 1-2 weeks, but the exact time frame depends on each patient’s treatment plan.
In its earlier days, Invisalign was used only for simple spacing issues or very mild crowding. Once orthodontists began to realize its potential, the aligners were redesigned to efficiently move teeth in most mild to moderate cases. When patients are fully compliant, Invisalign aligners can be just as effective as traditional braces. The 7 million patients who have been treated with Invisalign all over the world are all the proof you need!
Does Invisalign treatment take longer than braces?
For any orthodontic treatment to work, you have to commit to doing your part. With Invisalign, this compliance is even more important than usual! That’s because the aligners are removable orthodontic appliances. Traditional braces are fixed to the actual surface of the teeth, so most of the hard work is done without too much on the patient’s part. But Invisalign aligners are removable, so the patient is responsible for wearing them as directed, which is 20-22 hours a day throughout the course of treatment. If you neglect to do so, you won’t see the results they desire and may face longer treatment times in general.
We’re often asked how long a patient will need orthodontic treatment, but the truth is, there’s no “one size fits all” answer. Every case is different and each patient will respond to treatment in their own way. Most people will wear Invisalign aligners for anywhere from 9–15 months, with 18–30 aligners typically used over the course of the treatment. This is actually slightly faster than the average time spent in braces!
Does Invisalign cost more than braces?
Several factors will play a part in determining the overall cost of treatment. But comparatively speaking, Invisalign tends to cost about the same as traditional braces.
Dr. Bennett is committed to providing high-quality, affordable orthodontic care to patients of all ages in Mobile and the surrounding communities. We offer interest-free payment plans after an initial down payment at the beginning of your treatment, and also accept payment through third-party financing companies. In addition, we’ll file on your behalf if you have dental insurance that covers orthodontics. A better smile is always in the budget with Bennett Orthodontics!
What advantages does Invisalign have over traditional braces?
Invisalign gives patients more freedom and flexibility than traditional treatment methods do. Food restrictions are a perfect example of this. Having to give up favorite foods to keep their braces safe is the part of orthodontic treatment that most patients dread the most. They must avoid anything crunchy or chewy, which eliminates several popular foods and snacks. With Invisalign, this isn’t an issue! The aligners are simply taken out before eating, then put back in when the patient is done. Not having any food restrictions makes the treatment process a lot more fun!
Removable aligners also make it easier to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Brushing and flossing around wires, brackets, and bands can be frustrating and time-consuming, but Invisalign aligners are removed before brushing and flossing as normal. Caring for the aligners themselves is a breeze, too! There are special kits designed to clean them, or they can be gently brushed using toothpaste and a soft toothbrush.
Without any wires or brackets to get in the way, Invisalign’s removable aligners are great for athletes and musicians who play certain instruments. And since they can be removed for short periods of time, they’re also perfect for any special event when a patient wants their natural smile to shine through, such as prom, weddings, or even senior pictures.
Is Invisalign recommended for everyone?
Invisalign tends to work best for teen and adult patients who already have all their permanent teeth. It’s also most effective when used to correct mild to moderate orthodontic issues. If you have a complex or severe case that requires more precise tooth control, a removable aligner may not be able to achieve the results you need.
When you schedule your free consultation with Dr. Bennett, she’ll be able to determine if Invisalign is a good fit for you, or if you would be better served by a more traditional method of treatment. In many cases, you can choose between braces and Invisalign aligners!
What happens once Invisalign treatment is complete?
Whatever method of orthodontic treatment a patient chooses, the teeth always remember their previous places in the mouth. Over time, they will naturally begin to drift back towards those positions if nothing is there to stop them. That’s why retainers are an essential part of achieving long-lasting results! Our office will provide you with a retainer once your treatment is complete. Wearing this retainer exactly as directed by Dr. Bennett will help keep your newly straightened smiles in place for years to come.
Find the perfect smile for you at Bennett Orthodontics
As our most popular alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign’s innovative aligner system continues to change the way people view orthodontic treatment. To learn more about the incredible things Dr. Bennett can do for your smile with Invisalign, get in touch with us today to schedule a FREE consultation!
