Are you thinking about having your teeth straightened but can’t seem to separate fact from fiction? Well, if you’re wanting to get your teeth straight, we’re setting the record straight and busting all the old myths about braces that don’t apply to Invisalign.
While you might think having straight teeth is nothing more than vanity, studies show that overlapping teeth can be more of a challenge to clean, which can lead to decay, cavities, and gum disease. Speech, chewing, and swallowing are also affected when your teeth aren’t straight.
Your Teeth Straightening Options
If you’re considering braces but are unsure of wire braces, you’ll be happy to know you have options nowadays. Wohlers Family Dentistry in Marietta specializes in Invisalign, a teeth-straightening treatment that offers patients a great alternative to traditional braces.
These clear aligners are effective when it comes to correcting problems like overbites, underbites, crossbites, crooked or bucked teeth, and gaps between your teeth, pretty much the same way wire braces do. But what makes Invisalign different is that they’re almost invisible.
Something else that differentiates this clear solution from other straightening methods is that they’re removable. A lot of people also choose Invisalign because they’re comfortable, convenient, and less intrusive when compared to wire braces.
Myths About Traditional Braces That Don’t Apply to Invisalign
Although they’ve been around for almost two decades, Invisalign is still considered relatively new on the market. Dr. Wohler works with Invisalign daily, and both she and her patients have experienced the benefits firsthand.
But there are also a lot of myths that need busting when it comes to traditional braces and Invisalign. Let’s take a look at these in a little more detail.
Straightening teeth is for teenagers only, not adults.
A lot of people think that teeth straightening is only for teenagers, but this is definitely not the case. Yes, while the approach might differ slightly, everyone can enjoy beautiful, straight teeth, regardless of age. Invisalign aligners are an effective way of straightening adults’ teeth, and because they’re clear, older patients don’t have to worry about other people noticing them. This is one of the main reasons Dr. Wohlers recommends Invisalign for adults.
Braces have to be tight to work.
Even though a lot of people think braces need to be really tight to work, it’s definitely not the case. In fact, too much force can damage your teeth, bone, and tissue. Invisalign clear aligners, when fitted correctly, use the right amount of force to gently straighten your teeth over time.
Traditional braces work better.
Traditional braces and Invisalign aligners target different problem areas. If your doctor recommends Invisalign, it’s because they are the most effective option to help you achieve your smile goals.
Clear aligners can straighten crooked teeth, fix small gaps, and help with overbites, underbites, and crossbites. However, every treatment option depends on your individual needs, which is why it’s best to discuss your goals with your dentist.
Your teeth will always be straight after braces.
Unfortunately, this isn’t the case for traditional braces or Invisalign aligners. Once your teeth straightening process is complete, your dentist might suggest you wear a retainer at night to stop your teeth moving.
You can’t do any sports.
With traditional braces, your dentist might suggest you stay away from certain sports to avoid damaging them. With Invisalign aligners, you don’t need to worry about this because they are removable. Just remember to put them back in after the game.
Maintaining oral hygiene is difficult.
Everybody knows how hard it can be to brush and floss around wire braces, which is why some patients end up neglecting their teeth, resulting in stains, discoloration, cavities, and even gum disease. Because you can remove your clear aligners, you’re able to maintain your regular oral health care routine.
Braces cost time and money.
Well, yes, this one’s true.
In general, traditional braces and clear aligners cost around the same amount of money. But when it comes to investing your time, Invisalign aligners usually produce results quicker. Another major advantage is that, because you don’t have to have them adjusted like traditional braces, you won’t have to visit your dentist as often.
Traditional braces and clear braces are each used to address different problems. Some complex cases can only be corrected by traditional braces, but many patients who once would have needed traditional braces can now benefit from the many advantages of Invisalign aligners. If you are a good candidate for Invisalign, you will benefit from the easier wear and generally shorter time it takes.
If you have questions about your teeth or are wondering about alignment or spacing and which option is best for you, please schedule a consultation with us and we’ll be happy to help. As a certified provider of Invisalign, Dr. Wohlers will be able to answer any questions you might have and, in the process, give you a smile you’ve always dreamed of.
