Are Invisalign Clear Aligners Suitable For Everyone?

Invisalign clear aligners are an orthodontic treatment option for busy adults and teens, but they're not suitable for everyone. Many factors play a role when your dentist at Toothworks Pine Ridge Dental determines if Invisalign is right for you. 

To determine if your teeth could be straightened with Invisalign your dentist will complete an assessment of your oral history and a close examination of your teeth, gums, jaw, and bite. Based on your particular case, your dentist will help you decide if clear aligners are the best orthodontic solution for your needs. 

Here are a few of the factors that can contribute to helping you reach your goals regarding the Invisalign treatment process.

Your Case

As long as your case isn’t too severe, Invisalign can treat a variety of issues such as gapped teeth, crowded teeth, overbites, underbites, and cross-bites.

More severe cases, such as large overbites, will almost certainly necessitate additional orthodontic treatment to straighten your smile. If your case cannot be treated with Invisalign, your dentist will assist you in finding a suitable alternative, such as traditional metal braces.

Your Age

Both adults and teens are potential candidates for Invisalign clear aligners. But because their teeth are still developing, children are not considered to be candidates for Invisalign. If your child requires early orthodontic treatment, your dentist will recommend other options to use while they wait for their permanent teeth to fully erupt and grow in.

Your Commitment During

Because the clear aligners can be removed during treatment, Invisalign is a popular orthodontic option. However, it is critical not to abuse this feature. To achieve the best results, you must wear your aligners for at least 22 hours per day.

Even though you can remove your aligners to eat, drink, brush and floss, you should keep them in your mouth as much as possible to see the best results. 

That means if you are not able to fully commit to the treatment plan set out by your dentist, the treatment simply won't work.

Your Commitment After

Once your treatment is over, your dentist will create a custom dental retainer to ensure that your teeth do not start to shift back to their original positions. You must understand that for the next 9 to 12 months, you will have to be consistent in wearing your retainer until enough bone can be deposited around the new positions of your teeth.

We understand that switching from one oral appliance to another, especially for an extended period, but for your treatment to be effective, your retainer will need to become your new best friend for a while. Fortunately, unlike your aligners, you won't have to wear them for 22 hours a day.

The only way to know if you are a candidate for Invisalign is to visit the dentist. Contact our dentists at Toothworks Pine Ridge Dental to book your consultation today. Or find a Toothworks location near you.