If you’ve been considering orthodontics as a way to straighten your smile, you’re in luck—there’s never been a better time to improve your oral health with braces or aligners! The orthodontic field has been exploding with impressive techniques and technology over the last several years, making it easier than ever to achieve a healthy smile that looks great and feels fantastic. Here at Beim Orthodontics, we’re proud to offer a variety of high-quality treatment options that use the latest technology to correct issues like crooked teeth, overbites, and everything in between.
The Invisalign clear aligner system is one of these exciting options. Instead of using brackets and wires, Invisalign manipulates the teeth with a series of clear aligners that are custom-designed for each patient. This can be a wonderful choice for patients who prefer a more subtle way to get the smile they want, but all treatments come with their own pros and cons. We want you to understand exactly how each particular method works so you can make an informed decision for yourself and your smile! Keep reading below to learn the truth about Invisalign.
Invisalign is a discreet way to straighten your smile
Modern braces have had a major makeover in recent years, and are more comfortable and attractive than they’ve ever been. There’s no denying they’re more visible than Invisalign, however, and many teens and adults are on the fences about them for that reason. If you’re already self-conscious about the way your teeth look or feel, the last thing you want is something that will make them stand out even more. Patients love that Invisalign aligners are almost invisible—in fact, most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them! This can remove a very real source of anxiety for those who prefer a more subtle option than braces.
Invisalign can work just as well as traditional braces
Invisalign aligners and traditional braces look very different, but they both work by using gentle pressure that gradually increases over time, moving teeth in the process. When worn the recommended 20-22 hours each day, Invisalign can be just as effective as braces at treating many of the most common orthodontic issues. There may be some cases that won’t respond to aligners as well as they would to more traditional methods of treatment, though, particularly those that are more severe or complex. When you schedule a free consultation with our Lake Mary office, Dr. Beim will be able to determine what treatment method is best for your unique smile and walk you through your options.
Patient compliance is essential for Invisalign to succeed
Orthodontic treatment of any kind relies on some level of patient compliance. This is especially important when it comes to a removable orthodontic appliance like Invisalign aligners. This isn’t as much of a concern with traditional braces since the brackets are bonded to the front surface of the teeth and able to get the job done without too much effort from the patient.
In contrast, Invisalign aligners rely on patients wearing them for the aforementioned 20-22 hours each day. They are also responsible for switching each aligner out for the next in the series, which generally happens every 1-2 weeks. Failure to do so will result in subpar results and may lead to longer treatment times, too.
While we’re on the topic of treatment times, these will always vary from case to case. Every smile is different and each patient will respond to treatment in their own way, but in general, most people can expect to wear around 18-30 Invisalign aligners for anywhere from 9–15 months. The good news? This is actually slightly faster than the average time most patients will spend in braces!
Invisalign is comparable to the cost of traditional braces
There are multiple factors to consider when calculating the overall cost of any treatment plan. These range from how complex the case is to the type of appliance used, and everything in between. Braces tend to be the most cost-effective treatment method, but the Invisalign system is also extremely affordable.
At Beim Orthodontics, we believe every patient should have access to high-quality orthodontic care that fits their family’s budget. We’re proud to provide a variety of affordable treatment options, including flexible payment plans. We also accept most major credit cards and insurance plans. If you have dental insurance that covers orthodontic treatment, we’ll make the process as easy as possible by helping you with the insurance claims and paperwork.
Invisalign offers flexibility
Invisalign allows patients an extra measure of freedom that more traditional treatment methods just can’t beat. Take food restrictions, for example, which is one of the toughest parts of treatment for many braces patients. To keep their brackets and wires in good shape, they must avoid eating anything crunchy or chewy. Even though it’s temporary, giving up some of your favorite snacks can be frustrating.
With Invisalign, this is never 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 orthodontic treatment a lot more manageable. The removable aligners also make it easy to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Brushing and flossing around wires, brackets, and bands can be time-consuming, but Invisalign aligners are removed before cleaning the teeth and gums the same way you normally would.
The benefits don’t stop there! Without any wires or brackets to get in the way, Invisalign’s removable aligners are a great fit for athletes and musicians who play certain instruments. 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.
Beyond the last aligner…
Whatever orthodontic treatment you choose, your teeth will always remember the positions they were previously in. Once the pressure of braces or aligners is removed, they will begin to drift back towards those positions if there’s nothing there to stop them. This is why you’ll hear us emphasize often how important it is to use a retainer! We’ll provide you with one after your treatment is complete, and ask that you wear it as directed by Dr. Beim to keep your newly straightened smile in place.
Trust your smile to the Invisalign experts at Beim Orthodontics
Invisalign clear aligners are an exciting alternative to braces that continue to change the way people view orthodontic treatment every day. To learn more about how these clear aligners could transform your smile, get in touch today to schedule your FREE consultation with Dr. Beim and our team!