If you have teeth that are crooked or misaligned, you may not feel happy with your smile. But misaligned teeth can cause more problems than just appearance. When your teeth aren’t straight, you may have a higher chance of dealing with other dental issues.
Invisalign in Frederick, MD, is a clear option for treating mild to moderate issues with tooth alignment. These clear aligners work well for many, but they aren’t for everyone. Your dentist will need to examine your bite to see if Invisalign is the right choice for you.
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign has a similar purpose to traditional braces: it works to move your teeth slowly into the right position. With clear aligners, you receive a set of trays that fit over your teeth. These trays apply pressure to guide teeth into place.
Most patients switch to a new set of trays every two weeks, which adjusts the pressure. Invisalign treatment usually takes between one and two years, depending on your needs.
Invisalign has unique benefits, like being less visible and having fewer food restrictions. However, it isn’t always the best option for every patient. Your dentist may suggest traditional braces for certain reasons.
When Invisalign May Not Be the Best Choice
Complex Cases of Misalignment
Invisalign works best for mild to moderate cases. For complex misalignment, it may not provide the best results. This is because more severe cases can have unpredictable results with clear aligners. With traditional braces, dentists can make adjustments more often, helping to guide complex cases with more precision.
Patient Responsibility
Invisalign aligners need to be worn for most of the day and while sleeping to work well. Unlike braces, which stay on all the time, you can remove Invisalign trays to eat. This makes it easier to enjoy a wider range of foods.
However, the ability to remove them also means some people may not wear them enough. Patients who forget or choose not to wear their aligners may have slower or less effective results. For younger children or those who might not wear aligners as needed, traditional braces may be a better option.
Good Oral Hygiene
Keeping your teeth and aligners clean is essential when using Invisalign. If food particles get stuck on your teeth or aligners, it can lead to decay. For instance, if you don’t brush and floss before putting in the aligners, food can get trapped. Not only can this increase the risk of cavities, but it can also cause stains on the aligners.
Patients who find brushing and flossing difficult may struggle with keeping Invisalign trays clean. In these cases, traditional braces might be a better choice, as they do not need to be removed and cleaned as often.
See if Invisalign is Right for You
If you’re unhappy with the look of your smile, Invisalign could be the answer. This clear aligner system offers a flexible, convenient option for many patients. Call us at Frederick Center for Dentistry at 301-264-5680 to set up a consultation. Our team can help you decide if clear aligners are the best fit for your smile and lifestyle.