Invisalign craze is sweeping the dental world, and many patients want to jump aboard. But as much as we’d like Invisalign to help anyone who wants it, it doesn’t. So how do you know if Invisalign is right for you? Let’s take a closer look to find out.
It’s no wonder that Invisalign’s popularity is rising – It’s recognized as one of the easiest, most comfortable fixes for patients’ orthodontic issues. Many people want to fix their smile without shouting it to the entire world. That’s why they love Invisalign’s transparent retainer-like aligners.
However, for a variety of reasons, Invisalign is simply not for everyone. While consulting with an Invisalign provider is the only surefire way to determine your candidacy, a couple other factors can tip you off ahead of time. Here are some key questions to help you out.
1. What do you want to fix and how severe is it?
This is, first and foremost, the biggest determinant of if you are a good Invisalign candidate. Invisalign has a difficult time fixing cases that are too severe. That’s because for issues like large overbites, more advanced orthodontic procedures are necessary to shift the jaw.
As long as the case isn’t overly severe, here is a list of situations Invisalign can treat:
- Gapped teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
If your case is too severe for Invisalign, you may have to resort to another treatment option, like traditional metal braces or clear braces. Consult an orthodontist about alternative treatment options.
2. How old are you?
Invisalign is perfect for older teenagers and adults. However, children and young teenagers do not always make good candidates for Invisalign because their teeth are still growing.
Older teenagers and adults especially enjoy Invisalign because of its transparency. The teenage years come with enough discomfort to have to worry about braces. Dating, prom pictures, just walking through high school hallways – the desire for a more transparent option is obvious.
Adults feel the same way for different reasons. While adult years often don’t carry the same level of self-consciousness as teenagers experience, adults wanting to fix their teeth would prefer not to look like a teenager again.
3. How dedicated are you to fixing your smile?
Yes, Invisalign is relatively easy. However, the treatment comes with an option that other orthodontics do not provide – you can remove them.
In fact, you are required to remove your aligners when you eat and drink (except for water). Other than these instances, Invisalign must remain in your mouth for no less than 22 hours per day.
Plenty of orthodontists instruct patients to wear a retainer shortly after removing their braces. However, it’s not uncommon for patients to neglect their post-treatment obligations. Thus, their teeth begin to shift to their position before treatment.
Invisalign is the same way. If you are not dedicated to your treatment, it won’t work.
4. Have you taken Invisalign’s free Smile Assessment Test?
To get a better idea if Invisalign can treat your case, try Invisalign’s free Smile Assessment Test. Provide a bit of information about yourself and what you’re looking to correct in your teeth, and the assessment will determine if you are a good candidate.
However, it’s important to remember that an online assessment can only tell you so much. Only a trained professional can make a final assessment. Set up a consultation with a dentist or orthodontist that supplies Invisalign to confirm you are a candidate. Dr. Jay Hazen of Dentistry for Madison, for example, offers a free initial consult.
Invisalign is an exciting prospect for people who want to fix their teeth incognito. Unfortunately, it won’t work for everyone. While only an Invisalign provider can make the final call, these questions can provide an initial framework about your candidacy for treatment.
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