Have your crooked or misaligned teeth been making you self-conscious? Do traditional braces in adulthood seem like they’d be just as intimidating as your smile issues? Fortunately, as an adult, you do have some options that can solve both of your problems.
Many adults avoid orthodontic treatment options because they think braces are only for kids and teens. Many adults also had braces at one point but failed to wear their retainers resulting in a failed treatment.
However, no matter what the situation may be, adults no longer have to worry about the stigma of wearing braces as an adult. Instead, they can straighten their teeth using a nearly invisible solution aptly named – Invisalign.
Invisalign offers the perfect solution for adults that want to get perfect alignment with their teeth but in a discreet fashion. There are no bulky brackets, no shiny wires, and most of all no unwanted attention drawn to your smile you’re already self-conscious about.
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign approaches alignment in a completely different manner than traditional braces but with the same mechanical concept. Both treatments use pressure to force the teeth into proper alignment. Braces use a system of brackets and wires adhered to the teeth with dental adhesive. The wires are gradually tightened up forcing the teeth into the correct position over time.
Not only can braces be quite cumbersome and even cause blisters in the mouth, but they are also unsightly for many. As a teenager, they are stigmatizing to many cosmetically but expected as part of growing up for some. However, getting braces as an adult is often seen as looking out of place for many adults.
This is where Invisalign really stands out. Rather than sacrifice form for function, Invisalign gives a balance of both form and function. The treatment utilizes a series of clear aligners that gradually are changed out to shift your teeth into the desired position. Each aligner is worn for several weeks before being changed out to another aligner that is often smaller which shifts the teeth. This process is repeated as many times as necessary until the desired result is achieved.
The overall process typically lasts 12-18 months, but this can vary depending on individual cases and the severity of misalignment. Since each patient’s situation is unique, Dr. Vela will be able to provide you with an accurate estimated treatment plan after the initial consultation.
What Are The Benefits?
Invisalign is a clear alternative to metal braces for adults for many reasons. The main benefit being it offers patients an easy way to get a straight smile without wearing bulky braces. Look at a detailed breakdown of all the benefits of Invisalign and you’ll see why it’s one of the most popular orthodontic treatments for adults.
Invisalign Treatment Is Discreet
One of the top reasons why Invisalign is such a perfect solution for adults has been mentioned several times already—it’s discreet.
Why is that so important? As a teen, you’re still growing and your appearance goes through many changes. However, as an adult, you are more established you have a career, your own style, and an image you want to maintain.
Metal braces as an adult throw a curveball into the mix as braces are impossible not to notice. They also significantly change your appearance.
Since Invisalign is clear and nearly invisible, you can go on about life as usual without drawing extra, unwanted attention to your smile during your orthodontic treatment.
They Are Convenient
Unlike metal braces, the aligners are removable and it is recommended to remove them while eating—which leads to another benefit. They don’t interfere with your daily activities or your diet, you can still eat what you like, unlike with braces.
Oral care is not impeded in any way as well. You can still brush, floss, and get dental checkups with ease. Simply pop the aligners out for any of these activities and pop them back in when done.
Dr. Vela’s Invisalign patients always rave about how convenient and easy the aligners are.
It’s Perfect For Busy Schedules
With any traditional orthodontic treatment, you’re going to see your dentist a lot. However, where Invisalign differs is that there are fewer routine follow-up visits. This is due to the way the treatment works and the simplicity of the devices used.
Even when we do need a follow-up visit they are usually very quick, compare to traditional follow-ups that can take an hour or more.
Are you an adult with a busy schedule but need a straight smile? You will love how little time you have to spend coming to the dentist with Invisalign treatment.
Invisalign Can Treat Most Cases
Now, many people would think that with treatment this easy, there has to be almost nothing wrong with your smile. Maybe just a slightly crooked tooth or something very basic. Well, Invisalign can actually treat most issues such as
- Gaps
- Crookedness
- Crowding
- Overbites, underbites, and crossbites.
Of course, as with any treatment, there are some limitations but Dr. Vela will be able to tell you if you’re a good candidate for this treatment. Which brings us to the question you’re likely asking in your mind right now—”how do I know if I’m a good candidate for Invisalign?”
Requirements To Qualify
An ideal candidate for this amazing treatment is going to cover a wide range of patients but some specific criteria must be met:
- Over 18
- Mild or moderate alignment issues only
- No major bite problems
- Can follow through with the treatment plan exactly as prescribed
It’s that simple to qualify. However, if you do have severe malocclusions, major bite issues, or other serious conditions, Dr. Vela would consult with you about a better path of treatment for you.
It’s important not to be discouraged if you do not qualify for Invisalign. Dr. Vela is a specialist in smile restoration and bringing out the best in every patient. So, if this isn’t an option for you, we do have other avenues to get you the smile that you deserve.
Get Your Invisalign Consultation Booked Today
The only way to find out if you are a good candidate is to book your initial consultation with Dr. Vela. He will get images of your teeth and make sure Invisalign is right for you. Contact us today to book!
