For many who have been hesitant to show their smile for years, the clear aligners of Invisalign have been a game-changer. This nearly invisible way of overcoming orthodontic issues can yield incredible results – without having to rely on the metal brackets and wires of traditional braces.
Although a lot of patients can benefit from it, Invisalign isn’t for everyone. Figuring out if you are a candidate is the first step to a beautiful smile.
Mild to Moderate Orthodontic Needs
Invisalign works well to cure orthodontic needs that are mild to moderate in nature. A few conditions it treats include:
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Gaps
- Overcrowding
- Crooked teeth
- Open bites
Keep in mind that some of these issues can be a bit more complex. And, unfortunately, patients who require extensive orthodontic care may need to seek an alternative treatment. This is something your dentist will review and discuss with you.
The Right Age
Invisalign treatment is offered for teens and adults. The reason is that until you have all your permanent teeth, your mouth can still be changing shape and your teeth changing position.
Attempting to use Invisalign with baby teeth will be pointless. Since baby teeth are lost at different times, there is no set age as to when someone may become a candidate for the treatment. It simply goes by whether or not you have all your permanent teeth.
Good Oral Hygiene
To be a good candidate for Invisalign, your dentist will want you to have good oral health and practice good oral hygiene.
Any dental issues you have will need to be addressed before treatment. This includes anything going on with your teeth and your gums.
Having good oral hygiene habits shows your dentist that you will also maintain them throughout your Invisalign treatment. Caring for your teeth – and your aligners – during this time is important to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
No Major Prior Dental Work
The clear aligners of Invisalign are designed to encourage your teeth to move into their new position over time. However, if you have had major dental work done in the past, such as a dental bridge, you may not qualify.
It should be noted that dental fillings, dental crowns, and even dental implants will not disqualify you from being a candidate for Invisalign.
Eager to Comply with Treatment
Compliance with treatment is so important. With traditional braces, you have no choice – they are stuck on your teeth and they aren’t going anywhere. That means they are always working.
Invisalign aligners are removable. You can take them out while you eat and drink, as well as while you brush and floss your teeth. The rest of the time they need to remain in your mouth. In fact, in order to complete your treatment on time, you will need to wear them for about 22 hours each day.
A good candidate for Invisalign will be someone who is willing to comply with treatment.
Dynamic Dental covers all phases of Family and Cosmetic Dentistry. Their services include Invisalign, teeth whitening, root canal treatment, and more.