Invisalign is a popular choice for adults for a number of reasons. They are less conspicuous than traditional metal braces. You can wear them anywhere, and people are less likely to notice that you’re using any type of orthodonture. For many professionals who are already out in the workforce, it can be embarrassing to have braces as an adult. Invisalign can be a good choice for them and for teenagers who are concerned about their appearance with braces.

Metal braces are conspicuous and quickly noticed. Ceramic braces are less conspicuous but still noticeable. Aligners are a popular choice because most people won’t even know that you’re wearing them, and they correct your smile as well as the other options, in most cases.

Why Should I Get Clear Aligners as an Adult?

For adults, Invisalign often makes the most sense. The aligners are comfortable and easy to wear. They are inconspicuous and less likely to make you feel self-conscious. Best of all, they work as well as standard braces for most orthodontic issues. Your smile will improve if you use the aligners diligently.

These are a great choice for adults because they are more likely to be proactive about their dental health. While a teen may be very conscientious about wearing their liners when they are supposed to, an adult is almost always compliant with the prescribed usage. You can remove your aligners to eat, clean them, and take pictures. It’s best if you keep them in, even when you sleep; otherwise.

Should I Get Invisalign for My Teen?

Invisalign can also be an excellent choice for teens. Your orthodontist can let you know if you’re a good candidate for this treatment because there are certain issues that aligners can’t improve. Another thing to consider for your teenager is how responsible they are with their tooth care. If your teen doesn’t brush as often as they should or is otherwise forgetful, aligners may not be the best choice. Invisalign will only work if you wear them for the prescribed amount of time and take care of them. Braces are not removable and may be a better option for some teens.

How Will You Start My Treatment Plan?

To start your treatment plan with liners, we’ll start with an image of your teeth. This is done through 3D imaging. That image is used to create a mold that fits you precisely. Once the mold comes in, you’ll have a quick appointment where we verify that it’s fitted correctly. Every month or so, you’ll come back for a follow-up and start to wear a new mold as your teeth move. We help you along the way with your treatment. Assessing how well your teeth are responding and answering any questions you might have.

How Long Will My Treatment Last?

Clear liner treatments typically last as long as braces. It’s difficult to give an exact time frame because every bite is different. It depends on the severity of your misalignment and your diligence in wearing your mold all the time. In most cases, you’ll be finished with your clear aligners in 2-4 years.

How Much Will My Clear Aligners Cost?

Invisalign might cost anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000. The difference in the price depends on the number of molds and visits you will need to correct the problem. For a child under the age of 18, some of this cost may be covered by dental insurance. For adults, it is usually not covered by insurance.

Is It Possible to Switch from Braces to Clear Aligners?

It is possible to switch from braces to Invisalign if you’re unhappy with the current process. This is dependent on your case. There may be a reason that your orthodontist recommended braces rather than clear aligners. The first thing you’ll want to do is check with your orthodontist.

In some cases, people switch because they don’t like braces. There are even people who have followed up with clear aligners after having regular braces because their teeth moved slightly out of alignment after completing the process. It is a possibility, but it will depend on your own bite and orthodonture issue.

How Do I Clean Clear Aligners?

Aligners should be cleaned regularly, inside and out. Typically, you’ll want to brush your aligners. You do this by using a retainer brush with toothpaste and cleaning the inside and outside of your retainer in lukewarm water. You can also clean your aligners by soaking them in a solution of one part hydrogen peroxide and one part lukewarm water. Soak them for an hour or two, and then brush them with toothpaste to remove any extra stain.

Pros and Cons of Clear Aligners

The benefits of clear aligners are easy to see:

  • There are no brackets or braces, which means that you’re less self-conscious about the process. It also means that you won’t have to spend time at the orthodontist every month having them tightened.
  • They’re removable. This is a great feature because you don’t have to worry about eating something that will damage braces. You can also remove them completely for pictures.
  • They are more comfortable. This is subjective, but many people say that they are comfortable, while braces do take some time to get used to.

The cons of clear aligners:

  • They’re removable. This made both pro and con list. It is a good feature, but it can also be a negative feature if you don’t wear the molds as much as you were prescribed.
  • They need more upkeep. Braces are in your mouth, so the upkeep is really just learning to brush and clean your teeth around them. With clear aligners, you need to brush the molds and brush and floss your teeth thoroughly each time you remove them.
  • You can lose them. Because they’re not permanently attached, people do run the risk of losing their aligners if they’re careless with them.