It’s easy to assume that orthodontic treatment is only for teenagers, but in recent years, adults have been straightening their teeth in record numbers. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists estimates that 27% of all American and Canadian orthodontic patients are adults. For many decades, most adults didn’t consider braces because they didn’t want to wear brackets and wires, but a new option came along about 20 years ago that’s given people another choice. Invisalign in Lafayette is a wonderful alternative to braces and provides great results, without the drawbacks of traditional braces. Keep reading to learn about 6 of the top benefits you can expect from Invisalign!
1. It’s the Discreet Choice
Clearly, (no pun intended) the fact that Invisalign is practically undetectable to other people is one of the most popular reasons that people prefer it – especially adults.
If you have special events like a job interview, wedding, or you’re simply having photographs taken, you have the option of taking your clear aligner trays out beforehand.
2. Fewer Progress Visits
Invisalign is convenient (which is a big bonus for busy adults) because most patients only need progress visits about every 6 weeks. With traditional braces, you usually need to come in about once a month.
3. Similar Cost
Every patient is unique, so the cost of orthodontic treatment (whether it’s Invisalign or braces) will vary depending on your situation.With that said, the cost for Invisalign is usually in the same ballpark as braces.
4. Less Treatment Time
Again, everyone is different, but the average treatment time for Invisalign is around 12 months. For braces, it’s more like 18-24 months.
Of course, the best way to finish Invisalign on time is to commit to wearing the aligners for a minimum of 22 hours each day!
5. The Trays Are Removable
Clear aligner trays are removable, which provides multiple benefits. First, it’s much easier to brush and floss, so your risk for developing cavities or gum problems will be much less than it would be in braces, which are difficult to clean around.
Second, you won’t have any dietary restrictions. Patients in braces have to avoid hard, sticky or crunchy foods for the entire duration of treatment. With Invisalign, you can still eat your favorite foods.
6. Improved Comfort
Wearing smooth, plastic aligners is much more comfortable than a mouth full of metal, and you won’t have to deal with irritated lips or cheeks from sharp brackets and orthodontic wires.
Are You a Good Candidate?
You’ll be glad to know that Invisalign can be used on a wide variety smile imperfections, including (mild and moderate):
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Crossbites
- Crowding
- Gaps
However, the only way to know for sure if Invisalign is right for you is to schedule a consultation with an Invisalign-certified dentist.
No matter how old you are, straightening your smile is an investment that will pay off for the rest of your life. And with a modern alternative to braces like Invisalign, it’s easier than ever!
About the Author
Dr.Andrew Holecek is a general, restorative and cosmetic dentist in Lafayette who is known for his highly-skilled, compassionate care. He loves seeing how Invisalign treatment improves his patients’ oral health and self-confidence – at every age. If you’re considering Invisalign and have any other questions, he can be reached via his website or at (303) 604-6355.