Invisalign seems like the magical alternative to braces.
Straight teeth with no wires and an invisible aligner. Who doesn’t want that?
It’s true that Invisalign is a unique system that offers many advantages compared to traditional metal or ceramic brackets and wires. But as with any kind of orthodontic treatment a variety of myths have developed around Invisalign, its effects and use.
Here are some of the common myths about Invisalign, courtesy of Gullotta Orthodontics.
1. Invisalign is Less Effective
Unless you have severe orthodontic problems, Invisalign works just as well as traditional braces. For more serious problems, the treatment may take longer and require more expertise or attention from the orthodontist, but that’s true of traditional braces as well.
2. Invisalign is More Expensive
What really affects cost is the severity of your orthodontic problems, the complexity of the treatment and the length of time necessary for treatment. Compared head to head, Invisalign and traditional braces actually cost about the same in most cases.
3. Invisalign Can Be Used at Any Age
Both adults and teens can use Invisalign for straighter teeth. However, younger children whose teeth are still growing are not usually good candidates for Invisalign, as young children aren’t usually disciplined enough to brush their teeth several times a day.
4. Health Insurance Doesn’t Cover Invisalign
The Invisalign system is comparable to other types of braces as far as insurance companies are concerned. While there may be some exceptions, in our experience insurance companies do cover this treatment.
5. Invisalign is Faster/Slower Than Traditional Braces
Your orthodontic problems are the primary determinant of treatment length. However, if you are not diligent about wearing your Invisalign aligners for the recommended 22 hours each day, it could increase the treatment time.
Equally, there are devices that speed up Invisalign treatment so you could decrease treatment time.
6. Invisalign Aligners Require Less Attention to Oral Hygiene
While it’s true that the removable Invisalign aligner makes oral hygiene easier, you still can’t skimp. For example, you can take the aligner out for meals, but you should still brush your teeth after each meal to prevent film and plaque from building up under the aligner.
You must also brush the aligners thoroughly to keep them clean and prevent stains. It’s definitely easier to floss your teeth with Invisalign than with traditional braces because you don’t have to work around wires.
It’s All About You
Like any medical or dental treatment, there are advantages and disadvantages to choosing traditional braces or Invisalign aligners. Your unique situation and your orthodontist’s recommendations should be the determining factors.
Orthodontists have completed an additional three year ofs full-time study, compared to dentists. This enables them to become specialists in straightening teeth, correcting bites and in turn, creating healthy perfect smiles.
If you have other questions about Invisalign, or want to schedule an assessment, contact us today.
