Pros and Cons of Invisalign
From teens to adults, many people wish they had straighter teeth, and to get them, people are turning to Invisalign and other clear aligners to get that perfect smile. With all things, there are both pros and cons to using Invisalign, and it’s important to know the details before you decide if clear aligners are right for you!
By Dr. Stephanie Vera, DDS
Invisalign and other clear aligners are some of the most popular advancements in dentistry. They offer numerous benefits to patients, and not just in terms of esthetics! However, as with any treatment, there are pros and cons. Let's take a closer look at the benefits and possible downsides of using clear aligners.
Benefits of Invisalign
- Esthetics: The most common reason patients choose Invisalign is that clear aligners are less noticeable than traditional metal wires and brackets. However, it is important to note that clear aligners are not truly invisible.
- Speed of Treatment and Fewer Appointments: The average treatment time with Invisalign is 12-18 months, which is generally faster than traditional braces. Plus, you can benefit from fewer appointments, meaning less time off from work or school!
- Comfort: Traditional braces can be bulky and uncomfortable, taking your lips and tongue time to "toughen up" and get used to all the metal. Invisalign is much more comfortable than regular braces thanks to the smooth plastic used instead of brackets and wires.
- Fewer Restrictions: Since you remove your Invisalign trays when you eat and drink, you don't have to worry about the "do not eat" list associated with traditional braces. That means you can enjoy all your favorite foods without any worries!
- Better Hygiene: Brushing and flossing around all the hardware associated with braces can be challenging. With Invisalign, you can maintain proper oral care because your trays are removable.
Downsides of Invisalign
- Compliance is Required: Invisalign only works if you wear your trays. Some patients may struggle with the discipline and self-motivation required to wear clear aligners for 22+ hours a day!
- Speech: During the first few weeks of wearing your clear aligner trays, you may find it difficult to pronounce certain words or sounds. This is because the added material affects how your tongue and other muscles of your mouth move when speaking. But don't worry, it will only take a few days for your body to get used to them.
- Cost: While some insurance companies offer orthodontic coverage to offset the cost, Invisalign is generally more expensive than traditional braces. However, most dentists can provide payment plans to help patients afford treatment.
- Risk of Cavities: When you wear your Invisalign trays, you prevent the natural cleansing of food debris and bacteria that occurs when our saliva flows over the surfaces of our teeth. Coupled with poor oral hygiene, frequent snacking, or a poor diet, you can quickly create an environment that cavity-causing bacteria will love. And for you, that means tooth decay.
- Not Ideal for all Cases: Invisalign may not work as well as traditional braces for more complex dental issues. If you have severe crowding or bite problems, traditional braces would be the better option.
The majority of orthodontic patients can be treated with Invisalign, and the choice between traditional braces or clear aligners will come down to personal preference. If you're interested in straightening your smile, schedule a consultation with an Invisalign provider. They will let you know if Invisalign is the best choice for you!
Dr. Stephanie Vera is a general dentist practicing in Murphy, Texas. She is a graduate of Baylor College of Dentistry and believes education and prevention are essential to a happy, healthy smile.
