Thanks to the revolutionary power of Invisalign, more and more people who want to get their teeth straightened have an alternative option to metal braces. Instead of using metal wires, Invisalign requires the patient to wear a set of clear and removable custom-made aligners that is both convenient and aesthetically appealing.
While Invisalign is indeed an attractive prospect to those with dental issues, it pays to find out if you’re a good candidate for the treatment. So, before you search for a place that offers clear braces and commit to the treatment, here are some factors to consider:
Severity of the Dental Issue
Invisalign treatment offers great results even without the traditional metal braces. While it is effective in treating common dental issues, it is not the recommended procedure for severe cases of crookedness. More serious cases, such as large overbites, may require advanced orthodontic treatment that involves shifting the jaw.
Age is a Factor
Children and adolescents are still in the process of growing their teeth. As such, younger patients cannot reap the full benefits of Invisalign; changes in the mouth and teeth make it difficult for dentists to create accurate aligners. Invisalign is, therefore, better suited to adults with a mature set of teeth. In fact, there is no age limit to Invisalign: even seniors can take advantage of the Invisalign treatment!
Commitment to Treatment
Invisalign is a more convenient alternative to metal braces, as people have the liberty to take the aligners out at will. Although an Invisalign aligner doesn’t need to stay in the mouth for the duration of the treatment, it does not mean that it requires less commitment compared to traditional metal braces. For the best results, dentists recommend that patients wear their aligners for at least 22 hours a day.
Apart from awareness of the general prerequisites for Invisalign, have your dentists assess your condition as well. If you want to find out if you fit the bill for Invisalign, it helps to inform your dentist of your needs and concerns. Doing so will help them come up with the best course of action for your case.