When you think of orthodontic treatment, you naturally think of teenagers with bulky metal braces.
But this picture is outdated for a couple of reasons: Orthodontic treatment is not just for teens, and Invisalign — clear plastic aligner trays you wear instead of braces — has become more popular in recent years.
This popularity includes adults, who are turning to Invisalign in greater numbers because of the discretion it offers.
Here at Portrait Dental in Katy, Texas, we proudly offer Invisalign to adults who want to correct crooked, crowded, or misaligned teeth. Here’s how it works.
Invisalign is a series of clear plastic aligner trays that gradually straighten your teeth over time. You don’t have to worry about bulky metal braces, rubber bands, or wires. Instead, Dr. Minh Nguyen scans your mouth with a digital scanner, which creates a step-by-step treatment plan to straighten and align your teeth.
Invisalign’s laboratory then custom-manufactures a series of plastic trays for you to wear that slowly move your teeth over time. You wear each set for a week or two before moving to the next set of aligners. You should wear them 22 out of 24 hours a day for the best results.
Adults like Invisalign because they’re a more discreet option than braces. Much of the time, people won’t even know you’re wearing them. Many people also find Invisalign more comfortable than regular braces.
Plus, the aligners are easily removable, so you can take them out while you eat or for special occasions. This also reduces your risk of tooth decay and gum disease because you can clean the trays and your teeth more easily than with braces.
The biggest disadvantage to Invisalign is the discipline required to follow the recommended 22-hour wear time every day. You can’t take braces off, so compliance is easier, but with Invisalign, you must have a high degree of commitment and discipline to keep them in as much as possible. If you forget to put them back in or just don’t want to wear them sometimes, you’ll extend your treatment time.
Invisalign may not effectively treat complex orthodontic problems. The system works well for straightforward cases, but when more complicated movements are necessary for treatment, braces can be a better option.
If you’re an adult considering Invisalign, our team at Portrait Dental would be happy to evaluate your situation. To schedule an appointment, call our Katy office to find a time that works for you!
