A popular alternative to traditional braces, invisalign is a clear way to straighten teeth. They are a great option for adults who are self-conscious about their smile because they don’t have to worry about nicks or cuts in the mouth from wires and brackets. They are also more comfortable to wear because there are no metal parts. However, there are some disadvantages to invisalign that are important to consider before you choose this treatment.
Invisalign is effective at treating most malocclusions, such as crowding and overbite. Several RCTs have found that invisalign is just as effective as braces at correcting mild to moderate malocclusions.
Invisalign: A Clear Alternative to Braces for a Perfect Smile
The treatment starts with digital scans of the teeth (no gooey impressions!) to create a computerized 3D model of the mouth. The doctor then plans the treatment directly on this model, moving each tooth into its ideal position. Custom aligners are then fabricated out of SmartTrack material, a flexible, transparent plastic that is comfortable to wear and is less likely to irritate the gums. Patients are expected to wear their aligners for about 22 hours per day, taking them out only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Each week, patients are given a new set of aligners that apply gentle but consistent force to shift the teeth into place.
Invisalign is more expensive than standard braces, but it’s worth the investment for many people. One way to save money is to get the aligners through a dental school, where students provide Invisalign under supervision of a dentist. This can be less than half the price of a regular office visit.
