Many individuals opt for orthodontic care to straighten their teeth, enhance their physical appearance, and improve their oral health. And of the many orthodontic treatments available, Invisalign has quickly become one of the most popular methods to straighten teeth.
Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to adjust the position of your teeth. Each aligner set is customized specifically for you, allowing for a comfortable fit while helping to move teeth gently.
Read on to find the answers to some of the most commonly-asked questions about Invisalign, including:
- Who Is Eligible for Invisalign?
- Can Invisalign Work For Everyone?
- Can Invisalign Fix Really Bad Teeth?
- Is There An Age Limit For Invisalign?
- How Do I Get Invisalign?
- How Long Do You Need Invisalign For?
- Is Invisalign Right For Me?
Why Get My Teeth Straightened?
Each of us is born unique, and our physical makeup varies greatly. This includes the alignment of our teeth, which can range from straight and uniform to crooked and crowded. Fortunately, orthodontic treatment can help adjust and align teeth. But there are more benefits than just a straighter smile!
Enhanced Physical Appearance
Are you self-conscious about your smile due to teeth that are out of line? Orthodontic treatment can help make the physical aspects of your smile more uniform and give you confidence in your appearance.
Improved Oral Health
If your teeth are misaligned, you may have trouble cleaning between them properly. If untreated, this can cause tooth decay and cavities, leading to further oral health issues. Orthodontic treatments correct these structural deficits and help maintain better oral hygiene.
Long-Term Health Investment
Once you’ve invested in aligning your teeth, they stay in place as long as you take good care of them. They also help to reduce the risk of future dental problems such as gum disease or bone loss, which can be very expensive and time-consuming to treat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
Let’s jump into answering some FAQs about Invisalign to help you learn more about it.
Who Is Eligible for Invisalign?
While Invisalign works for various dental cases, a top-rated orthodontist will ultimately determine who can and who can’t get Invisalign.
Can Invisalign Work For Everyone?
Not everyone is the perfect candidate for Invisalign. Your orthodontist will consider certain factors when evaluating your candidacy based on general Invisalign requirements.
Can Invisalign Fix Really Bad Teeth?
In short, yes, but other treatments may be recommended in addition to Invisalign, like LightForce or traditional braces, to achieve the desired results.
Is There An Age Limit For Invisalign?
Invisalign can work for patients of all ages. You can be as young as six or well into your senior years, depending on your oral health and goals.
How Do I Get Invisalign?
If Invisalign is the right option for you, here’s the process for getting started:
Step 1: Smile Assessment
Getting Invisalign, or any other orthodontic treatment, starts with a visit to the nearest orthodontist for a smile assessment. During this initial consultation, you can ask any questions you may have about Invisalign and learn more about the process.
Step 2: Get Scanned
If you meet Invisalign requirements, the next step is getting your teeth scanned. At Bates Orthodontics, we use a 3D scanning system to create a virtual model of your mouth, which is used to create your aligners.
Step 3: Treatment Plan
Once your teeth have been scanned, your orthodontist will map out a personalized treatment plan that outlines your treatment timeline and how the Invisalign system will be used to move your teeth into their correct position.
Step 4: Aligners
Finally, you’ll receive custom-made Invisalign aligners that fit your teeth like a glove. Your orthodontist will give instructions on how to wear your aligners, care for them, and have you schedule follow-up appointments to ensure your treatment is going as planned.
How Long Do You Need Invisalign For?
On average, people wear Invisalign for 12–18 months. However, treatment time can vary depending on the complexity of your case. Your orthodontist will consider a variety of factors to determine the length of your treatment, such as:
- How crowded are your teeth?
- What type of bite do you have?
- How much movement is needed?
- Do you have any pre-existing health issues?
The answers to these questions can impact the number of aligner sets you will need to wear and determine if any additional treatments are necessary.
Is Invisalign Right For Me?
While straight, healthy smiles are a goal for many, the path to get there may be different for everyone. That’s why it’s important to consult an orthodontist who can develop a personalized treatment plan for you.
Learn More About Invisalign With Bates Orthodontics
Invisalign is an excellent tool for bringing your teeth into proper alignment. But it’s not the only way! At Bates Orthodontics, we use a variety of teeth straightening methods to achieve your smile goals. We’re committed to identifying who is eligible for Invisalign and helping all of our patients leave with straighter smiles using the method that’s right for them.
Our team will work with you to determine the right treatment type for your situation and guide you through the entire process from start to finish. Whether you need Invisalign, braces, or a combination of treatments to straighten your smile, we’ll give you personalized attention and excellent care.
Book your complimentary consultation to learn more about improving the appearance of your smile today!
