All too often, those with tooth malocclusions (misalignments of various sorts), become embarrassed about the fact and may be a bit “shy to smile.” That really oughtn’t be so, of course, since our worth as people is not based on our physical appearance. Nonetheless, it’s sad that many suffer from tooth misalignments that make them hesitant to “show their teeth to the world.”
Many who need to straighten their teeth, however, are also unsure if they want to wear metal braces. But did you know there is an alternative to braces that can realign teeth just as effectively, often more quickly, and with many distinctive benefits to enjoy along the way?
Invisalign® Is the Number One Alternative to Metal Braces
If you’ve been looking for an alternative to wearing metal braces for the next year or two (or longer), you’ll be glad to know that Invisalign® acrylic aligner trays are NOT BRACES but work just as well as braces in realigning your misaligned teeth!
So what exactly is Invisalign® and how does it work? Good question! Here are the basics you need to know:
- Invisalign® is a system that utilizes a series of acrylic trays. All the trays are custom-made at the beginning of your treatment, and then you wear each one for about a two-week period before switching to the next tray in the series.
- The acrylic material out of which the dental lab will manufacture the aligner trays is non-toxic and will not hurt your teeth.
- The trays place gentle but consistent pressure on your teeth until they are nudged over far enough, in the right direction, for the next tray to pick up where the last one left off. It’s a bit like a “relay race” for teeth!
- You need to wear your aligner trays at least 22 hours per day in order for them to have the desired effect in the optimal amount of time.
- Invisalign® trays are transparent. They are almost “invisible” in your mouth, and most people won’t even know you are wearing them unless you tell them.
8 Key Benefits to Choosing Invisalign® for Tooth Realignment
While metal braces may be required for some tooth alignment issues, and they’ve come a long way since, say, 20 years ago – most orthodontic patients will be able to use Invisalign® if they so desire.
Invisalign® is growing rapidly in popularity these days, especially with teenagers, young adults, and those who for any reason dislike metal braces. But what is the attraction? Why would someone choose Invisalign® over braces?
Here are the top eight benefits of Invisalign® that lead many to choose it over traditional metal braces:
1. Invisibility. There’s no doubt that the transparent nature of Invisalign® trays, which allow your true smile to show through, is a huge factor in why so many are choosing it.
2. Comfort. It can be uncomfortable to have metal brackets and wires in your mouth, but aligner trays are hardly felt at all. They certainly can’t pinch your tongue or inner cheeks like metal sometimes can.
3. Tooth protection. Brackets have to be attached to teeth and can sometimes damage the surface enamel. This damage is temporary and can be repaired, but avoiding it to begin with is certainly better.
4. Oral hygiene. Invisalign® makes oral hygiene much easier during tooth realignment. You can take your tray out, do your regular oral care routine, then put the tray back in. It’s as simple as that. No getting food and plaque stuck under your brackets.
5. Fewer dental visits. You need more frequent visits to the orthodontist’s office with traditional braces than with Invisalign®. Braces mean visits to tighten the wires and make sure teeth are staying clean. A very occasional check-up to ensure all is staying on schedule is all that is needed with Invisalign®.
6. Lifestyle benefits. One of the most appreciated benefits of Invisalign® is the fact you have very few lifestyle restrictions during treatment. You take your tray off during meals, so there are no dietary restrictions. You can exercise or even play low-impact sports with the trays on. For high-impact sports and activities – simply store trays safely in their case and switch to a mouthguard for the activity.
7. Easier & faster. A 12 to 18-month realignment period is typical with Invisalign®, while 2 or 3 years is often needed with braces. Aligner trays are easier to use and, on average, get the job done faster.
8. Affordable. Both braces and Invisalign® are major dental procedures and carry a significant cost – but when you take into account fewer dental visits with Invisalign®, it can cost about the same or even less than metal braces would.
To learn more about how the Invisalign® system can help restore your natural smile, or to schedule an in-person consultation with Dr. Beauchamp, contact Beauchamp Orthodontics today!
