Invisalign is a highly popular orthodontic option with an extraordinarily high patient satisfaction rate. Yet, there are still some myths hanging around there which are commonly asked when people are considering this treatment option. Here are the top 5:
Myth 1: Adults & Seniors Can’t Wear Them
I have absolutely zero idea how this one started. In fact, in the beginning it was only adults and seniors who could wear them. Invisalign was designed so adults in need of orthodontic treatment wouldn’t have to wear unsightly metal wires and brackets which could affect promotions at work.
It wasn’t until later that Invisalign Teen was developed because of the demand for a product suitable for younger patients.
If you’re an adult looking for a discrete way to improve your smile, Invisalign is a fantastic solution.
Myth #2: Braces Work Faster
This is another one of those myths where the opposite is actually true. In fact, Invisalign works in about half the time as traditional braces. In addition to the speed benefit, the aligners can also double as teeth whitening trays, allowing you to knock-out two procedures at once.
Myth #3: Braces Work Better
This one used to be true. When Invisalign first came out, it was only effective on certain patients. Complicated cases were still relegated to a mouth full of metal.
Now, the functionality of the aligners can take on the complex cases. The one exception may be for severe cases of crowding.
Myth #4: I Can’t Eat or Drink Certain Foods
If you wear traditional braces, it limits what you can eat. This is because things will get caught in the wires and brackets. Because you simply remove your aligners when it is time to eat, Invisalign allows you to eat whatever you want.
Myth #5: You Can Order it Online Cheaper
What is true is that you can order invisible braces online cheaper. However, you do not get the regular care of a dentist or orthodontist. They simply ship you the aligners and you change them out on a pre-determined schedule. There is a reason this is dangerous. With Invisalign, a dentist regularly checks the shifting of your teeth to make sure they’re moving in the healthy pattern they are designed to.
When things don’t go according to the ideal and it goes unchecked you can actually lose your teeth. Instead of saving money, you’ll be spending more getting tooth replacements like dental implants.
This blog is brought to you by Kalamazoo Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Susan Dennis.