Everybody wants to have a perfect smile because it’s the first thing other people see when we meet them. Making a first impression count is the first step in any new relationship, after all. And if you’re not confident with your smile, you’re probably not presenting yourself confidently, either.
You could get braces. But traditional braces are difficult to hide and it takes a while to install them and get used to them. Or, you could get Invisalign. It’s like braces, but not really.
Invisalign is a form of orthodontics that can straighten your teeth using a clear plastic, custom-fitted, aligner that will gradually move your teeth. The result is a straighter, brighter smile.
In this article, we’re discussing how to know if Invisalign is right for you! Keep reading to learn more.
How to Know if You’re Eligible for Invisalign
Unfortunately, Invisalign isn’t for everyone. It may be wise to consult your dentist before committing to this method of teeth straightening. Depending on various factors, your dentist can tell you if you’re a good candidate.
To be eligible for aligners, you should keep the following considerations in mind:
Your Teeth
What exactly are you trying to fix and how severe is the issue? This is the first question you should ask yourself when considering Invisalign as an option.
If your teeth are extremely crooked or your overbite is too severe, you may not be a candidate. In contrast, if you’re trying to straighten crooked teeth or fix a mild overbite, this is a great option for you.
If you’re eligible, your dentist will take a mold of your teeth and have your first set of retainers made. They will be changed out every two weeks for as long as it takes to accomplish the results you’re looking for. Typically you’ll start seeing straighter teeth within the first six months.
The determining factor will depend on what your dentist says. If you’re interested in finding out more, you can schedule an appointment. In some cases, you can get started the same day!
Your Age
Young teens are not prime candidates because the teeth continue to shift during this stage of life. The aligners would not be accurate because the teeth are always changing.
Older teenagers may be eligible. If you’re a teen wondering if this is right for you, you can ask your dentist. He or she can verify whether or not your teeth are still moving and determine your eligibility.
Teenagers can especially benefit from wearing the invisible aligners because of the transparency. High school can be an especially difficult time for teens and it’s nice that there are new options available to alleviate the stress of wearing traditional braces.
Adults should be good to go! You can start wearing the aligners any time. Even if you’re fifty and you’ve always wanted to straighten your teeth, now you can! Because the aligners are more transparent than traditional braces, you can wear them confidently.
Your Dedication
Traditional braces may be better suited for those that can’t or don’t like to stick to a routine. With traditional braces, the dentist does all the work for you. All you have to do is brush and floss regularly as usual.
With aligning retainers, you should wear them as much as you can. What this means is that you should only remove them to eat, drink, and brush and floss your teeth.
Aligners are designed to be worn 20-22 hours per day which allows you time to eat. The plastic used in the aligners is not suitable for coffee or hot beverages. So if you enjoy a hot cup in the morning, you’ll need to remember to take your aligners out.
Likewise, you’ll always need to remember to put your aligners back in and remain dedicated to wearing them every day for up to and maybe more than one year. It’s a lot to commit to. If you don’t think you’re prepared, traditional braces may better for you.
Maintenance
You should always brush and floss your teeth each time you finish eating. This way, when you put your aligner back in, you’re not also trapping food and bacteria. You don’t want to be going back and forth to the dentist for cavities, too.
Speaking of going to the dentist, you’ll need to make an appearance at your dentist every four to six weeks. These appointments will measure your progress and fit for new aligners when necessary. Generally, you’ll receive new aligners each time you visit the dentist.
If you already take great care of your teeth and you can remember to brush more often, you’re a great candidate for aligners.
Take the Test
Invisalign offers a free Smile Assessment Test online that can give you a better idea of whether or not you’re a candidate for this treatment.
All you have to do is answer a few simple questions. Be as honest as you can be to ensure accurate results that will determine if aligners can help you straighten your smile.
It’s important to remember that this assessment cannot guarantee that you’re eligible for Invisalign. Only your dentist can make a final determination. But the online assessment can get you started before you talk to a dentist.
Results
Results or the final outcome of wearing Invisalign retainers will largely depend on how well you maintained your routines and if you wore them properly. In other words, your diligence pays off.
This technology works to align teeth and can correct overbites, underbites, overcrowding, and gaps in the teeth. It is a more discreet method for fixing your smile.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve already taken the test and you think Invisalign is right for you, then why not give it a try?
Some of the benefits of this kind of orthodontics are that the trays are clear, comfortable and removable. You can remove them to eat and clean your teeth normally. And, they’re more comfortable than traditional braces.
When you’re ready to get started on straightening your smile, contact us!