Have you spent years unhappy with the way your smile looks or feels? Maybe you’ve been considering orthodontic treatment, but you aren’t quite sure about the attention it might draw to your smile. We have great news! Traditional metal braces are no longer the only option for patients in Portland and Windham who are dealing with misaligned smiles. Here at Adult & Pediatric Orthodontics, Dr. Joanna Yu has the expertise to offer a variety of orthodontic treatment options for patients of all ages, including Invisalign clear aligners!
Over the years, Invisalign clear aligner therapy has gained some serious attention! Like with most things, that increase in attention has come along with some misinformation as well. So how exactly do you know if you should believe the hype about Invisalign? Adult & Pediatric Orthodontics is here to help you learn the facts and fiction about Invisalign clear aligners!
Fiction: Invisalign doesn’t work as well as braces
This is definitely a myth worth busting. Many people believe that Invisalign clear aligners aren’t as effective as braces since they’re removable rather than fixed to the teeth. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth!
Fact: Invisalign is just as effective as metal braces
Clear aligners have been around for years, but thanks to some major advancements in technology, they’ve come a long way. While they were originally used for post-treatment retention, Invisalign trays are now just as effective at correcting a wide range of orthodontic problems as braces. When used as directed by Dr. Yu, you can achieve the same stunning results you would with braces.
Fiction: Treatment takes longer with Invisalign
Traditional braces are attached to the teeth with glue and wire. Because of this, many people tend to believe that they can straighten teeth more quickly than Invisalign.
Fact: Treatment time with Invisalign is similar to metal braces
Every case we see in our Portland and Windham offices is unique so there is no one size fits all answer as to how long treatment will last. However, treatment with Invisalign is typically about the same amount of time – or even less– than traditional braces. The exact time spent wearing aligners will depend on a few things, including age, compliance, and the severity of orthodontic issues. Treatment with traditional braces, on average, lasts around two years, while treatment with Invisalign averages less than two years!
Fiction: Invisalign is more expensive than braces
Over the years, traditional braces have undergone many changes, making them more accessible and affordable. Many people believe that, since Invisalign is a newer technology, it must cost more than traditional braces. Boy, do we have some good news!
Fact: Invisalign cost is comparable to braces
Every person’s orthodontic treatment is different, so there isn’t a firm number for how much treatment will cost. However, Invisalign clear aligners are often about the same cost as traditional metal braces. If you have dental insurance, your policy may also cover your treatment! Our Adult & Pediatric Orthodontics team will verify any coverage before your treatment begins and work with you to create a treatment plan that fits your budget.
Fiction: Invisalign trays are painful
Metal braces have gained a reputation for being uncomfortable and irritating. The metal wires attached to your teeth are gradually adjusted over time to straighten them. This often results in some discomfort that can last up to a few days. This leads many people to believe that Invisalign clear aligners will be painful or uncomfortable, too.
Fact: Invisalign trays are very comfortable
Invisalign clear aligners are made from flexible SmartTrack material that is customized to your unique smile. Since there are no wires or brackets, the trays are much more comfortable to wear. During the course of treatment, you’ll need to replace your trays every 1-2 weeks as directed by Dr. Yu. When you switch trays, you’ll feel a little bit of pressure as your teeth start to shift, but it will subside after a day or two.
Fiction: It’s hard to maintain Invisalign aligners
When you think of orthodontics, you might imagine food restrictions and trouble brushing your teeth becoming your new normal. While there are plenty of rules to follow with metal braces, that isn’t always the case.
Fact: Invisalign is easy to maintain
Invisalign clear aligners are completely removable so keeping them clean is a breeze. Simply take them out and rinse them with an approved solution to wash away any debris and keep them clear. There are even special care kits to keep your aligners in the best condition. This also makes it easier to brush and floss as you normally would! Since there are no brackets and wires to maneuver around, you can keep up your regular oral hygiene routine and keep your smile shining throughout treatment! There are also no food restrictions with Invisalign. That means you can eat or drink whatever you want without worrying that something will be stuck in your brackets.
Invisalign is the clear choice with Adult & Pediatric Orthodontics
Have you spent years unhappy with your smile? Or maybe you have a child who needs some orthodontic corrections? No matter what the state of your smile, our team is here to help! Invisalign can be an excellent alternative to traditional braces in many cases. However, the only way to know for sure is a visit with the experts!
Schedule a free initial consultation in our Portland or Windham office and Dr. Yu can determine if Invisalign is the right choice for your smile!