Invisalign: Are They Truly Invisible?

By now you have heard about clear plastic aligners, such as Invisalign, that work just as well as traditional metal braces. Custom fit, removable trays that go over your teeth to help straighten and realign crooked bites. Usually this is where patients overall knowledge of the dental treatment ends. In fact one of the biggest question still asked is are invisible aligners really invisible?

Before we dive into that, let’s see actually what the Invisalign system is and all its amazing benefits to help you change your smile for the better. These powerful little pieces can help to create almost anyone’s smiles into beautiful Hollywood vibes. Invisalign trays are made out of thermoplastic material, but do not worry, they are safe to have in your mouth. Although the name Invisalign would mean they are INVISABLE, they are actually translucent. They are clear and not as nearly visible if you are looking for them; very similar to a teeth-whitening tray. Most people will never even notice you wearing your Invisalign trays, unless you point them out and show them off.

Your Invisalign trays are meant to be worn throughout the majority of your day, the only time you should not be wearing your aligners are during mealtimes or while brushing your teeth. That’s right, these are supposed to stay in while you sleep as well. The need to wear the aligners will vary from patient to patient, however, your orthodontist will be able to consult with you your overall plan and treatment procedure before the aligners are fitted. Most patients with Invisalign aligners typically average a yearlong treatment plan.

They are custom made to your teeth and follow a predetermined pattern with each new tray fitting. Because of this custom fit, the aligners should fit right over your teeth with the design in mind to be much less painful than traditional metal braces and brackets. Many patients do experience a slight discomfort the first day or two of switching into new trays as they are slightly altering your mouth’s alignment and teeth placement. Usually a minor discomfort, feeling some pressure that can easily be taken care of by over the counter pain relievers. Not to worry, this typically means it is working!

Now because each patient is different and some cases are more severe than others, Invisalign unfortunately cannot fix every dental problem. Your dentist or orthodontist will be able to help conclude if you are an eligible candidate for Invisalign or any clear dental aligner. For those who are not a good candidate, traditional metal braces still create the desired results for a beautiful smile. Because medical benefits are different from policy to policy it would be wise to look into your insurance policy beforehand and see if Invisalign or any dental orthodontic procedure is covered.

If you are looking into correcting your teeth or bite, and want to see if you would be an ideal candidate for Orlando Invisalign systemcall or schedule a consultation from Baptiste Orthodontics today.