Is Invisalign® for You? 5 Factors to Consider

Braces haven’t had a positive reputation throughout history. Although they’re an effective way of fixing crooked or overcrowded teeth, they can cause discomfort, especially at the beginning, and aren't the favorite choice of adults who wish to improve their bite. If that’s your case, clear aligners like Invisalign® in Lexington, KY, are probably an attractive alternative.  

Clear aligners work the same way as braces do, exerting subtle pressure to shift and align teeth. However, they’re transparent and highly unnoticeable. If you’re interested in them, here’s what you need to consider before getting aligners like Invisalign.

Factors to Consider Before Getting Invisalign

Invisalign is an attractive solution for patients looking for an orthodontic treatment that doesn’t involve braces. However, these aligners are not for everyone. To ensure they’re the right fit for you, here are some factors you need to consider.

1. Complexity

For starters, you need to consider the complexity of your dental issues. Invisalign is highly effective for mild to moderate alignment problems, but severe cases such as patients with complex bite problems and TMJ disorder may require traditional braces or other orthodontic treatments.

That’s because aligners can’t apply enough force to move the teeth as much as needed.  

2. Oral Health

Your oral health plays a significant role in whether Invisalign is for you.  

It is crucial to have healthy gums and teeth before beginning orthodontic treatment. If not, problems like gum disease and cavities will only worsen and could jeopardize the outcome of your treatment.

To ensure a smooth Invisalign experience, a detailed check-up with your dentist can help find any pre-existing conditions. However, even if you do have one, with periodontal care or cavity removal you can get back on track with your clear aligners.  

3. Lifestyle Habits

Your choice of Invisalign should also take your dietary and lifestyle habits into consideration.

Even if they’re removable, you must be dedicated to wearing Invisalign aligners for the full 20 to 22 hours a day. Keeping them in place can require discipline, especially if you’re feeling any type of discomfort.

Additionally, excellent oral hygiene is a must to prevent staining your aligners. That means brushing and flossing after every meal. This can become troublesome if you tend to snack in between meals or drink beverages other than water.

4. Maintenance

While Invisalign offers many advantages, like comfort and convenience, it does have its drawbacks. For instance, your Invisalign aligners need to be handled and maintained properly.

Unlike braces, which are fixed, Invisalign aligners must be cleaned daily to prevent bacteria or stains from building up. If you’re willing to keep up with the cleaning, though, Invisalign will remain a great option.  

5. Social and Professional Life  

An important factor to consider regarding Invisalign is your social and professional life. Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible, making them a popular choice for adults and teens who are self-conscious about wearing braces and wish to maintain a natural appearance during treatment.

If that’s the case for you, Invisalign can be a discreet way to straighten your teeth.  

Get Invisalign in Lexington, KY

Before getting Invisalign, you must consider many factors, from evaluating your dental needs and commitment level to assessing your oral health. The best way to make a clear, informed decision is to consult with your go-to dental professional at Georgetown Sedation Dentistry.

By doing that, you can proceed with your Invisalign treatment with confidence and a clear understanding of what lies ahead. If you’re interested in hearing more, give us a call!

*Invisalign®, the Invisalign logo, and iTero®, among others, are trademarks and/ or service marks of Align Technology, Inc. or one of its subsidiaries or affiliated companies and may be registered in the U.S. and/or other countries.